Origin
From its name alone, the East Siberian Laika originated from the Siberian region, east of the Yenisei River. It is a rare, Russian spitz dog that also carries another name, Vostotchno-Sibirskaia Laika.
Because of its superior ability to work and live in the harshest environment, such as the Siberian climate and terrain, this dog has been extensively used as a sleigh dog runner, as a hunting dog, and as a watch or guard dog.
Today, this breed is kept as house pets, but the owners need to provide large, open yards for it to naturally breathe out and exercise its breed’s traits and behavior.
Traits and Behavior
The East Siberian Laika was purposely and originally bred as a hunting dog.
Since the Siberian climate is normally winter-cold throughout the year, this breed was developed to withstand the harsh, cold weather to hunt wild animals such as bears, squirrels, moose, wild boars, and even mountain lions.
This breed is very intelligent and, therefore, can easily understand and obey commands. It is for this reason that it is heavily used as sled dogs for transporting people and things in Siberia.
It is reliant on its owner or trainer so much so that it carries orders obligingly.
Its sense of loyalty can make them good, dog companions. It can show aggression to large predators and, at the same time, can serve as protectors or guards to its owner and the territory where it belongs.
Like a pet dog, it can show another light side of its behavior which is that of being affectionate and loving. But owners must be on guard concerning its upkeep.
It is best kept in homes that have large yards or open spaces outside the home and not inside.
Pet Care and Diseases
A heavy dog bearing weight measurement of 88-116.6 kg, feeding must be properly monitored as it can develop digestive problems later. Hair grooming is done regularly since it has a low maintenance coat. What this dog need is a dose of daily exercises, such as running.
The owner must be cautioned to require this dog to be on a leash when taken outside the home during its regular running as it has a strong tendency to chase other animals and thus can create a problem with the neighborhood dogs.
For it to live longer, this dog must be provided with the right amount and kind of food, open space, exercise, and a regular visit to the vet. Health problems, such as the following, may be experienced by this dog – hip dysplasia, cancer, distichiasis – ingrown eyelashes, chronic ear infection, and bloat.
Appearance
Of medium built, males are 22-26 in and females are 20-24 in, the East Siberian Laika come in various shades of black, white, grey, red and brown. Its body composition shows the females are slightly longer than the males.
Generally, they project a square form of body structure. Their chest is deep, muscular, and broad. They have slightly high withers with robust bones.
Its protective covering is double-coated with fairly thick, coarse hairs distributed throughout the body along with its triangular, erect ears and curved tail.
General Information
Its life expectancy is about 12-15 years. This breed can have a litter size of up to 9 puppies. Other name: Vostotchno-Sibirskaia Laika.