Laikas – all varieties with photos

One of the most popular and adaptable dog breeds, laikas are prized for their strength, loyalty, and intelligence. These dogs, who were first bred in Russia, have a long history of assisting people by guarding, herding, or hunting. They are an excellent addition to families and outdoor activities due to their innate instincts and versatility.

Laikas come in various varieties, each with special qualities and attributes of its own. These dogs, which range in size and shape from the East Siberian Laika to the West Siberian and Russo-European Laikas, all have a passion for an active and wild lifestyle.

We’ll examine the personalities of the various Laika breed varieties in this post, along with some stunning images that perfectly convey the spirit of this amazing animal.

Variety	Photo
East Siberian Laika
West Siberian Laika
Karelian Laika
Russian-European Laika

History of the origin of the species

The fact that this breed is regarded as indigenous is not insignificant. For thousands of years, dogs have coexisted with humans. These creatures might be the closest cousins of jackals and domestic wolves. The ancient Rus territory contains the earliest indications of the existence of Laikas. The earliest known fresco that shows furry pets was painted in the eleventh century.

These creatures aided in the hunting of nobles in Western Europe in addition to serving the peoples of the north. The wealthy enjoyed stalking bears and wild boars in the forests, and Laikas fared admirably in their hunting. It’s interesting that this group’s representatives are all referred to as Spitz overseas.

In the north, breeding and crossbreeding were not closely regulated. Every recently emerging breed exhibited the same distribution of working qualities. It wasn’t until the 19th century that these animals received an official description. Work on improving the breed’s characteristics and classifying them starts at this point. It is thought to be significant that Prince Shirinsky-Shikhmatov and the cynologists Poplavsky and Dmitrieva-Sulima participated.

Laikas come in three primary varieties: sled, shepherd, and hunting.

1. The first group is considered the most numerous, by the number of breeds included in it. It includes draft dogs, which are especially popular in the north.
2. The second subspecies includes those Laikas that are engaged in protecting livestock from wolves and bears.
3. Hunting dogs still perform their functions and are considered indispensable in the northern European regions.

East Siberian Laika

This is a hunting breed with multiple uses; it can hunt deer as well as squirrels. It stands out from the others thanks to its massive, robust body, which measures 53–65 cm at the withers. Winter-hardened and northern-bred, they labor nonstop. This breed, like all Laikas, is in the primitive, or fifth group and second section, which includes northern hunting dogs and Spitz breeds. Russia is the homeland. 1949 saw the dog’s official registration.

Despite the fact that the majority of its peers are square, the animal has an elongated form. Dogs that have strong paws, bones, and heads are better able to withstand cold weather, gusty winds, and hard labor. All Laikas have the following external characteristics, which are described by the standard:

• Head wide, massive, wedge-shaped with pronounced cheekbones;
• Muzzle equal in length to the head, well filled, with strong jaws and a scissor bite;
• Eyes small, oval, slanted, brown in color;
• Nose large and fleshy, always black;
• Ears erect, triangular, with a medium set;
• Body long, muscular, with a straight top line, tucked bottom line, pronounced withers, oval loin; Neck long (equal to the length of the head);
• Tail long, curved and thrown over the back;
• Limbs long, straight, parallel, with oval collected paws;
• Wool medium length, hard, straight, with a soft undercoat;
• Color: Black, white, pygia, black and fan, red, gray, brown.

If the animal is allowed to walk freely, it is best for this breed to be on a soft, long chain because it is more likely to be shot. Long, strenuous walks and hunting are the primary requirements for appropriate care. Such a pet should be used as intended; otherwise, he won’t turn into a homemade cutie.

The storage in food is a distinguishing feature. East Siberian lovers are able to overindulge because they are concerned about the continued feeding schedule. Conveniently, enthusiastic hunters can spend two to three days in the forest. This habit has the potential to lead to the development of diseases in normal circumstances.

A rare Siberian breed’s price may surprise you because it’s significantly less than that of other exotic canines. A puppy without ancestry will cost between 7000 and 10,000 rubles, while a show class puppy will cost between 20,000 and 30,000 rubles. It is important to remember that an adult Laika’s cost is determined by their productivity. It will cost more to hunt large game with a dog than to hunt small game with a dog.

Russian-European

Square-framed hunting dog with a dry, muscular build. The height of males is 52–58 cm and that of females 50–56 cm. Breed members range in weight from 18 to 25 kg. Black and white or pure black colors are a distinctive feature. The most elegant and graceful Laika on the outside. Hunt any game, but you must be trained for it. can act as sentinels.

The USSR (Russia) is regarded as the breed’s birthplace. Since 1980, the breed has been acknowledged. belongs in the second section and the fifth group.

Unassuming animals that are able to fit into an apartment in the city. Aviary maintenance would be the best course of action. Animals must roam around a lot, hunt, and run. Providing the dog with enough physical exercise is essential.

The working qualities and pedigree of Russian-European Laikas determine their cost. The cost of a middle-class pet ranges from 15,000 to 20,000 rubles. The cost goes up if the dog is an adult and well-trained.

Karelian-Finnish

A breed that was developed in Karelia, more precisely in Russia. suited for hunting small ungulates, fur, and birds. The standard previously distinguished between Finnish Spitz and Karelian-Finnish Laikas. These dogs are now thought to belong to a single breed.

Acknowledged by the International Cynological Organization since 1935, they fall into the second section and the fifth group. Since 2006, the Russian and Finnish herds have been indicated.

A square-shaped dog, the smallest of its kind; at the withers, representatives measure 42–50 cm and weigh between 7 and 12 kg. A unique characteristic is its juicy red-red hue.

Like all huskies, Karelians adore open spaces and freedom. Their small size allows them to live in an apartment, but it is preferable to maintain a yard or aviary for them. It is necessary to fence the area. It is best to keep these huskies in a moderate climate since they do not do well in hot weather. Dogs must receive the appropriate grooming.

These animals can be considered one of the most expensive among their fellows. But finding a puppy without a pedigree for 5-10 thousand rubles is possible. Dogs with status will cost 15-70 thousand rubles .

West Siberian

When it comes to head count, this breed is the most prevalent and well-liked by hunters. It stands out for having a predatory appearance; more than others, its color and disposition are similar to those of a wolf. It weighs 16–22 kg and measures 52–60 cm at the withers. an extended animal with strength on the outside. It is regarded as a canine for hunting everywhere.

Origin nation: USSR (Russia). In 1980, the International Cynological Organization formally registered the breed, granting it recognition.

It resembles the East Siberian in both appearance and proportions. A distinctive characteristic could be the deeply set, acutely slanted eyes with a raptor-like expression. The colors white, piebald, brown, gray, and red are preferred.

The breed does not present any care challenges. Laikas from West Siberia are simple-minded. They hunt, work hard, and survive for a very long time without food or water. These dogs require room; housing them in an apartment will be detrimental to their health. The pet must have a soft chain attached to an enclosure or booth in order for it to live on the streets. Regular hunting trips or even just strolls through the forest are crucial.

A puppy without a pedigree costs between 3,000 and 5,000 rubles, while a dog in a show class costs 25,000 rubles.Dogs in a pet or breed class cost between 15,000 and 20,000 rubles.

Yakut

Though they are thought to be adaptable, Yakut Laikas work best as sled dogs. Although their standard was released in 1959, the World Cynological Organization has not yet recognized the breed. Traditionally, it falls into the second section and the fifth group. The name Yakutia originates from the region of the USSR where the dogs were bred and documented.

One of the breed’s unique characteristics is its striking black and white coloring, along with its light blue eyes and copious amounts of fluffy fur. These dogs are small, with a wither length of 53–59 cm. formatted squarely.

These dogs are humble and need the same attention as any other husky. They do not consume much food, but they are long-lived and resistant to wind and frost. They dislike the heat. The ideal place to keep them is in a yard or aviary with a moderate climate. Regular coat maintenance involves combing and bathing the coat two to three times a year.

A puppy without a pedigree can be purchased for 7,000–10,000 rubles. A pet with specific working properties and class will set you back between 10,000 and 30,000 rubles.

Karelian Bear

A traditional Finnish breed used for bear hunting, as the name would imply. Its color, build, and hair length are all very similar to those of the Russian-European Laika. The dog is small, standing 52–57 cm at the withers and weighing 17–27 kg. The body is graceful, light, and extended.

The standard was written in 1945, but the breed’s breeding and restoration got underway in 1936. These are in the second section and fifth group, just like other Laikas.

Karelians have straight paws, an elongated dry body, a long wedge-shaped skull, and a tail that is thrown into a ring, just like most Laikas. Large spots can be black or white in color.

These huskies are able to live in apartments, but a country home with a fenced-in backyard would be ideal. Since heat is destructive, the climate should be either cold or moderate. The coat is routinely combed, and water hygienic procedures are performed twice a year.

Since this breed is regarded as part of Finland’s legacy, a purebred representative will cost you between 60,000 and 80,000 rubles. Puppies without a pedigree cost between 15,000 and 20,000 rubles.

Norwegian

Moose Laika, Norwegian Laika, and Norwegian Elkhound are some of the names given to this breed. Moose hunting still involves dogs. The standard was officially recognized in 1877, having been bred in Scandinavia. This is regarded as one of the oldest breeds of Norwegians.

Elkhounds come in two varieties: black and gray. Their color is the only difference. They have an elongated format. Strong, muscular, and dry body. Animals are smaller than their peers, measuring between 49 and 52 cm at the withers. They are between 15 and 25 kg in weight.

The Norwegian Laika is also referred to as a buhund. He serves as a guard and shepherd in addition to being a farm dog, which sets him apart from his brother. These dogs are also wheaten and light red in color. Other than that, the breeds are comparable.

These Laikas require standard care, which includes frequent brushing, two annual baths, and vigorous, lengthy walks. Do not tolerate heat; suitable only for outdoor and aviary keeping.

The price range for a purebred puppy with all the paperwork is between 20,000 and 40,000 rubles. Up to 10,000 rubles will be spent less on a dog without a pedigree.

Laikas are an exceptional breed of dogs that are prized for their versatility, intelligence, and loyalty. They make excellent companions for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and active families because of their keen senses and strong instincts.

Although every Laika variety has different characteristics, they are all motivated to work and defend. Over the years, these dogs—whether they are Russian-European Laikas, West Siberian Laikas, or East Siberian Laikas—have demonstrated their value in a variety of capacities.

A Laika might be the ideal breed for you if you’re searching for a dog with a strong sense of independence, an adventurous spirit, and a close bond with the natural world.

Laikas are a hardy, adaptable dog breed group renowned for their devoted nature and keen hunting sense. These dogs, who are native to Russia and Northern Europe, are highly valued for their capacity to track and hunt a wide range of game in challenging environments. This post will discuss the various Laika varieties, emphasizing their distinctive traits, personalities, and looks. It will also include pictures to make it easier for you to identify each variety. Curious about their past or seeking a hunting partner, Laikas provide an intriguing combination of power, cunning, and toughness.

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