East Siberian Laikas

East Siberian Laikas are medium-sized dogs with a lively character that will win you over. Even though they’re bred for hunting, they’re very special dogs.

The origin of East Siberian Laikas

East Siberian Laikas are a breed of hunting dog native to Russia. Specifically, they’re from the Ural area, as well as wooded areas in eastern and western Siberia.

In the early 20th century, Russian cynologists bred the first Vogul (Mansi) and Ostyak (Khanty). In 1947, they proposed the breed Laika  – combining Khanty and Mansi into one breed.

Nowadays, East Siberian Laikas are the most common hunting dogs in Russia. Although it became popular throughout the country, they’re still especially popular within their native area.

The appearance of East Siberian Laikas

The breed standard for the East Siberian Laika was approved in 1952. However, it was most recently revised in 2010. According to this standard, they’re medium-large dogs with a strong and well-defined structure.

This breed has clear sexual dimorphism. In other words, it means the males are bigger than females, with different muscular development. Males are between 21.6-24.4 inches, and females are between 20-22.8 inches. According to the World Canine Association, these proportions are also very important:

• Length of the body should exceed the height by between 3 and 7% in males. However, females should be between 4 and 8%.
• Height at the withers exceeds the height at the rump by about an inch in males. For females, it’s equal to the height at the rump or half an inch higher.
• Length of the head considerably exceeds its width.
• Muzzle is equal to or slightly less than half the length of the head.
• Length of the limbs from the floor to the elbow should be slightly more than half the height at the withers.

East Siberian Laikas’ heads should be thin, wedge-shaped and proportionate. Their shape is similar to an equilateral triangle, as seen above. The top of the head is moderately wide. Females have smaller heads than males.

East Siberian Laikas’ fur

Their fur has two layers. The outer layer is thick, hard, and straight. On the other hand, the inner layer is soft, abundant and downy. On their head and ears, they have short and thick hair. However, on their shoulders and neck, the hair is longer.

Regarding color, they can have gray dotted with reddish-brown, red with reddish-brown, gray, or tawny fur. In addition, they could be white or partially white. In other words, they could have white fur with patches of any of the colors we mentioned.

Character and temperament

East Siberian Laikas have a balanced temperament. Generally, they have lots of energy. Additionally, they have a great sense of smell to hunt prey.

They’re great hunters, so it’s not a good idea to have other pets like cats or rabbits. Self-assured, they’re very faithful to the owner and the pack. However, they’re alert and intimidating to strangers.

Care and health

Coming from the coldest region of Eurasia, it’s normal for this breed to adapt well to low temperatures. Their double coat protects them from cold and humidity, and it’s important to take care of it. We recommend brushing it at least once a week. Also, don’t bathe them too much so you don’t damage their weather-resistant fur.

It’s a resistant breed that doesn’t have many specific diseases. However, since they’re large dogs, monitor their joints to avoid problems like hip dysplasia. In addition, you’ll want to watch for severe problems like stomach torsion or heart disease.

In short, East Siberian Laikas are resistant dogs that need physical activity and a good, balanced diet. If you follow these simple steps, you’ll have a lively, healthy and happy pet.