Today the West Siberian Laika is still used extensively as a hunting companion. The Eurasier breed was recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) in 1995 as a member of Group 3 (Working Dogs). Height and Size:The average height of the Yakutian Laika is between 21-23 inches and the average weight is between 40-55 pounds. Giving no voice while running, but opening up to continous barking once the quarry is cornered or treed. At this age, toy and small dogs will have almost completed their growth. Laikas are very protective of his family and will not hesitate to protect his home and family from any type of intruders. The West Siberian Laika (WSL) is a medium sized Nordic spitz type of hunting dog. Since this breed comes from a vast area of Siberia the gene pool is fairly large showing much genetic variation. The first mention of the Yakutian Laika’s total number found in the book “Statistical tables of the Russian Empire” (St. Petersburg, 1856): “There are 15157 dogs in the Yakut region used for sled work”. The West Siberian Laika exists along with three others in the same category, the East Siberian Laika, the Russian-European Laika and the Karelo-Finnish Laika. Head is very typical of the breed. Once acclimated, this breed can tolerate the hot climates better than other Laika breeds such as the Karelian Bear Dog. Eye color can be brown or blue, or they may have eyes of different colors, usually one brown and one blue. Make sure that you have the right grooming tools on hand to make the brushing experience easy and stress-free. Read on for more about this fantastic breed. She was sent up in a rocket with a menagerie of dogs, guinea pigs, rats, mice, fruit flies, and plants, meant to study the effects of cosmic radiation. The WSL is a naturally clean natured dog. The breed standard was developed in the 1930s and in the 1940s the four Laika breeds were officially separated by region. Laikas coat naturally repels dirt, and Laikas owners claim that this breed doesn’t have an odor, so bathing should be rare. Height and Size: The average height of the West Siberian Laika is between 21-24 inches. She Disintegrated On Re-EntryAfter five months and 2,570 orbits around the Earth, the satellite that … Most WSL in the States are used for hunting purposes or for outdoor companions such as for backpacking. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. If you adopt Laika, the staff will inform you about the dog’s health, so you know what to expect. The very first references about dogs in this region date back to 1633. A home with at least a fenced yard is required, but a home with some acreage is best. Breeders will screen dogs for health concerns such as: The Yakutian Laika has a long history as a hunting dog and sled dog. Breed Group: FCI: (West Siberian Laika) Group 5 Section 2 #306, (East Siberian Laika) Group 5 Section 2 #305, (Russian European Laika) FCI standard No. The WSL is extremely quick, agile and flexible. Weight: Male 35 - 50 pounds (16 - 23 kg) Female 30 - 45 pounds (14 - 20 kg) She was one of a number of stray dogs that were taken into the Soviet spaceflight program after being rescued from the streets. Breed type: Herding Dogs Weight: 40-55 pounds Height: 21-23 inches Lifespan: 10 – 12 years Color: White and any patching as bicolour or tricolour Coat: Double coated, with a thick downy undercoat, and a longer, more coarse top coat. Some scient Just like other dog breeds, they enjoy pleasing their family members. Easily save as a PDF or print. Throughout history, their most important role was in transportation. This is a paramount squirrel hunting dog. The breed does not have the natural get along with larger groups of dogs as its sled dog counter part, and in many cases it may even be somewhat aggressive to members of the same sex. These medium-sized dogs with a muscular built and striking appearance have proved to be a great asset as well as a remarkable companion for the Yakuts over the years. The WSL is not a catch dog, but a bay dog and once the quarry is found he is run until bayed up in a tree or cornered on the ground. He is also considered to be a long-legged dog with thick skin. Our work is not Public Domain. Eyelids are lean, while the ears are set high and covered with thick and short hair. Yakutian Laikas are used for herding, pulling sleds and hunting. They are good with children, and most other pets including other domestic farm type animals. The coat is shiny, thick, and straight, of medium length. This activity should not be confused with nervous energy that some high strung dogs have. They do this so they do not get injured and so that they can also be successful in the field. If you need help with training him, think about professional training classes. This is a social dog who loves spending time with humans, and they will make a perfect family pet as long as you socialize him from an early age. Most of these dog breeds are not well known outside Russia, and even less popular among western countries. The WSL has desire to catch small quarry on the ground if he can. ", Taiga the West Siberian Laika from Estonia, Taiga the West Siberian Laika from Estonia with her Laika friend in the snow, Rey the West Siberian Laika from the Ukraine, "This is Chevy (aka Laika Rock), a West Siberian Laika in the backyard before I brought her home. If socialized properly they are as tame and affectionate as other modern breeds of dogs. Laikas are happy being active, or even participating in agility sports, sledding, or coursing ability. They hunt with their masters, but for the hunt itself they are expected to react on their own to the unfolding hunting situation without waiting for assistance or direction from their master. However, in 1998, a group of enthusiasts worked to reclaim the breed, and in 2004, the Yakutian Laika was recognized by the Russian Kynological Federation. The natural hunting instincts of the Laika is much different than most modern domestic breeds of hunting dogs. The West Siberian Laika is a loyal companion who bonds very closely with his family, however he is not a lap dog content on being inactive. Many North American hunters have come to realize that this primitive aboriginal hunting breed from Russia is so natural at hunting squirrel that all one really has to do is take him to the woods so that he can learn to use his instincts of which he has imbeded in his DNA. However, this is a concern with many hunters who hear that more and more of these dogs are making their way into modern bench-shows. These dogs also bay moose for the hunter to come in to take the shot. Color: White and any patching as bicolour or tricolour They may also have the presence of blue segments of the brown iris. The rest is regular maintenance: trim nails regularly, check gums, clean his ears, and check eyes as a part of his grooming routine. It is an aboriginal primitive hunting breed that shares many characteristics to its ancestor the wolf, however being in the hands of mankind for countless generations it is a domestic breed of dog. If a squirrel is found feeding on the ground the WSL will try to catch it before it gets to a tree and if it is not caught the WSL will continue to chase it until treed, this chase on the ground is silent. Most hunters are aware of this and are willing to help keep the gene pool healthy. The West Siberian Laika has hunted with mankind going back to pre-history records. If you are based in a warmer climate, air conditioning is a must, and walks should be reserved for early mornings or late nights to avoid any paws damage on the hot road. Height: Male 22 - 24 inches (56 - 61 cm) Female 21 - 23 inches (53 - 58 cm) Weight: Male 35 - 50 pounds (16 - 23 kg) Female 30 - 45 pounds (14 - 20 kg) ... however being in the hands of mankind for countless generations it is a domestic breed of dog. Training the Yakutian Laika is an easy task thanks to his nature to please. Although many specimens look wolfy in color pattern, this is not a wolf hybrid, but rather it is an established breed of dog developed in Russia. The term laika means a dog that barks, or a barking dog. If young pups are not handled or socialized properly they can become timid and aloof towards humans so early socialization is very important. The head is proportional to the size of the dog, while the skull is moderately broad. Here in the United States, although our gene pool is small, most hunters are not inbreeding their dogs and this is a practice that is critical to keep the breed genetically healthy. Today, this breed is mostly known as a family companion. These are not community property type of dogs, because they do bond with their family pack very tightly. Breed type: Herding Dogs In the early days, these dogs were even used for hunting tigers in Siberia, but this is forbidden nowadays. Throughout history, dogs that are similar to the Yakutian Laika were described by explorers to the region by many different names including Sledge Dog, Tungusskaya, Chuvychanskaya, Arkticheskaya and Polarmaya. Early socialization and basic training are mandatory before you let this breed walk among other dogs and people. Read Next: 9 Simple Ways to Keep Your Dog Entertained Indoors. The WSL has no known genetic health problems that have been fixated on the breed. The WSL is an adaptable breed and several of them are currently living in the hot humid south as well as the hot desert southwest. The Yakutian Laika is described as a bold, lively, and friendly dog that is close to man. The fur is well developed and usually sufficient to help Laika live and work under harsh Arctic conditions. Yakutian Laika History. One can prevent the dog from hunting by keeping him in a pen, but one can never remove the natural instinct to hunt once the dog is loose in the woods. The breed is lighter in build and narrower in head than the East Siberian Laika. Height: Male 22 - 24 inches (56 - 61 cm) Female 21 - 23 inches (53 - 58 cm) What are all the factors you should take... 15 Reasons Why Your Dog Is Breathing Fast, 10 Reasons Why Your Dog Won’t Eat (But Drinking Water), Puppy Vaccination Schedule – Shots Your Puppy Needs. There was a push to preserve the West Siberian Laika in the early 1900s. This breed is known for its high intelligence and willingness to work with humans. Today, these dogs are still capable of performing the first work they were bred for, but they can also be wonderful family pets. However, due to his natural primitive hunting instincts and ability to survive these dogs just do not charge into dangerous quarry and get hurt. WSL can be protective of property and his master against dangerous animals such as bear or stray dogs. The Material contained herein may not be reproduced without the prior written approval of the author. Cost:The average cost of the Yakutian Laika puppy is between $1200-$1400 USD. Other names: Yakut Laika, Yakustkaya Laika, Kolyma-Indigirka Laika, Laïka de Iakoutie, Chien de Traîneau de Yakutie, Laika de Yakutia, Kolyma Husky This breed has a double coat and does shed a lot during the seasonal molt. Dogs love to be pet, so anything will benefit them tremendously when they got to be an object of affection. If you are dealing with breeders, make sure that you deal with responsible breeders only. This breed has shown up in various published works including in Nicolas Cornelissen Witsen’s book published in 1692. Body is well developed with deep and long chest. Weight: 40-55 pounds Same sex gender aggression is not uncommon within this breed. Greenland Dog may weigh 11 kg / 25 pounds more than East Siberian Laika. Outside of seasonal shedding the breed is a clean companion. In the early 1900s efforts were used to save the Laika and a more developed breed standard was incorporated around the 1930's. Laika was a small (13 pounds [6 kg]), even-tempered, mixed-breed dog about two years of age. The Yakutian Laika is overall a healthy breed. Cheek-bones are moderately defined, while the nose is large. Measuring a dog's height can be important when assessing how much it has grown over time, or when showing it in dog shows. The WSL does not take well to a rough hand, or loud yelling type of voice. The West Siberian Laika was recognized by the United Kennel Club on … Luckily, if you brush your Yakutian Laika regularly, the shedding will be under control. As far as hunting companions go, once mature these dogs may not hunt well with strangers being present or transfer well to knew homes if the new owner does not satisfy their instincts. The West Siberian Laika needs lots of exercise, which includes a daily, long, brisk walk. Cost: The average cost of the West Siberian Laika is between $600-$800 USD. Just like any other dog breed, weekly brushing is mandatory to keep his coat shiny and healthy. The current breed was developed from two different types. One important aspect to consider is that the WSL does not have natural dog body odor as with most modern breeds. Some dogs will bond so tightly to its master that they do not do well in transferring to someone else once mature, and even after years of separation will remember their "first love" if reunited. However, other lesser known breeds include the Russian Spaniel, Moscow Water Dog, Laika breeds and so many more. If it had not been for his enthusiasm for this breed of dog it may have never found its way to the USA. Read... Getting A Dog – Everything You Need To Know. However any quarry chased on the ground is run silently until it is bayed up in a tree. The Yakutian Laika is a working breed developed in Yakutia Republic’s Arctic region, majorly used for a wide variety of purposes like hunting, herding as well as for pulling sled. This is a sure way to have a well-behaved and well-trained dog. A clean WSL even when wet does not smell "doggy". Unique Fact: The breed is easy to train and they are easy keepers, preferring to remain by their owner's sides. If not properly socialized a puppy may never develop into a trusting loving companion. This is not an apartment dwelling breed of dog. In that case, the Yakutian Laika might be the breed for you. Other larger breeds such as a German Shepherd, Retriever, or Spaniel will have reached about ⅔ of his adult weight by this age. From the early days, they have proven to be worthy assistants, and in no time, they became loyal companions to the Yakuts. As a result, they are great with people, and they see training sessions as playtime. The Yakutian Laika will demand regular brushing and complete grooming. Similar Dog Breeds to West Siberian Laika. Size:Height: 15 - 17 inchesWeight: 10 - 25 lbs. listverse Mushka, the dog who’d been kept on Earth as a “control dog,” followed Laika into space a little later. Laikas are easy to train, although they can be stubborn from time to time. Height, Weight Height: Males 21–22 inches (53–56 cm) Females 20–22 inches (51–56 cm) Having extremely developed senses, they are always alert and totally in tune to their surroundings at all times. Dogs From China – 7 Well Known Breeds With Chinese Roots. The WSL Laika do best when housed or hunted alone, or in male female pairs. For centuries the breed was a loyal companion and working assistant of man in the conditions where it was hard to move, such as cold areas of Yakutia. However, chickens and rabbits sometimes are just too tempting to some dogs so good cages are required. Like in humans, they may be prone to specific genetic disorders if not treated right. The West Siberian Laika may also suffer from infections of eyes and ears, but they are very rare. At 30 to 32 inches in height at the shoulder, Scottish Deerhounds are another tall dog breed. The WSL are often aggressive to stray dogs that come onto the property, but generally will accept other dogs it is raised with. Height, Weight . It streaked across the sky while people around the world watched, creating a small panic in the United States. But she is so much fun, faithful and adorable.". Yakutian Laikas were originally bred for hunting, herding, and pulling sleds. There are variences to these size ranges. Yakutian Laika was developed in ancient times for natives of Yakutia as assistants. Thus, they make very good watch dogs as nothing really gets by them. With that said, they do not do well sitting in a kennel situation or tied to a tree without regular interaction with their family due to the depth of bonding that developes. Only female dogs were used because they were considered to be anatomically better suited than males for close confinement. Therefore, Laikas should never be left outside in a warm or hot climate. As a puppy the WSL can be destructive, and as a bored adult can be equally as destructive. In the early 1900's the Russians made more effort to fix the individual breed characteristics of the breed and established an actual breed standard. This is a native dog breed. 304, Occupation: Hunting, an excellent guard dog: Size: Height: 55- 66 cm (22-26 inches) Weight: 18-23 kg (40 – 50 lbs) Longevity; 12-15 years: Exercise: 2015 - 2021 © Barking Royalty. Yakutian Laika is an ancient breed, developed by native Yakuts to hunt mammals and birds. The Russian-European Laika does, however, require a great deal of socialization and they have a tendency to become aggressive or t… Your Yakutian Laika will love training based on positive reinforcement and delicious treats. They do shed more in the shedding season. Being a Siberian dog, no cold is too cold for this breed as long as he has protection from the elements such as a good doghouse. These dogs are adapted for woodland hunting habitats, and were used in some areas for the much valuable sable fur industry. The Laika is a Russian-type dog that existed in the country for many years and they retain many of the traits they inherited from their wild ancestor, the wolf. The Kennel Club announced in December 2012 that with effect from April 1, 2013, the Eurasier breed will transfer from the imported register to the breed register. There are other Laika breeds, but the West Siberian Laika hunted mostly with the Hanty and Mansi cultures of West Siberia and Ural Mountain regions of Russia. They may be independent, but this is something that an experienced dog owner can deal with. Related to the Greyhound, Deerhounds are leaner dogs, with males weighing between 85 and 110 lbs. In the home environment they are very affectionate and enjoy their human companions, but again, they are not simple lap dogs. During the winter months, he will probably demand from you to let him spend all day outdoors. The sable was nearly hunted to extinction, and when this premier quarry crashed in numbers so did the Laika in some areas that hunted them. In North America the WSL is currently hunting feral hogs, bear, cougar, bobcat, raccoon, opossum, squirrel, etc. They have an extremely high prey drive, so anything small moving around them should move slowly and with cautions. This is different to many modern hound type of dogs that give voice as soon as scent is detected. Most West Siberian Laika (WSL) are some shade of wolf gray, but there are pure white dogs and white dogs with colored patches. The most popular Russian dog breeds are the Siberian Husky, Samoyed, Borzoi and Black Russian Terrier. Simply put, the instinct to hunt is already there, all they have to do is be given an opportunity to learn how to use them. From there, they evolved to perfect house pets. The first description of the Yakutian Laika appeared in the book “Geography of the Russian Empire” (Derpt, 1843), which announced it to be a “dog of a special breed”. The East Siberian Laika is the largest of the 3 Laika breeds and is used for hunting furred animals and forest birds, but mainly for hunting big game, such as bear, wild boar and moose. They are a northern spitz type dog it does look similar to the sled dogs of the north such as the Siberian Husky, however the WSL has been the hunting version of the Siberian dogs. There are four different types of Russian Laikas – the Karelo-Finnish Laika, the Russo-European Laika, the West Siberian Laika, and the East Siberian Laika. In the mid-1800s, the breed was at its peak, only to start demining in the 1900s. How to choose the right dog for yourself? Technically, this is an ancient breed, but many call it a re-born breed since their preservation efforts began in the 1990s. 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