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Breed Characteristics
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Russo-European Laika
| Other Names | Russko-Evropeïskaïa Laïka |
| Nicknames | Laïka |
| Country of Origin | Russia |
| Weight | 45 - 50 lbs. (20.5 - 22.5 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | Males: 20.5 - 23 in. (52 - 58.5 cm) Females: 19.5 - 22 in. (49.5 - 56 cm) |
| Coat | Double coat with straight. harsh outercoat and well-developed undercoat; beard. |
| Colour | Colour can be any of the normal Spitz-type colours, but red and ticking on the legs is undesirable. |
| Litter Size | 3 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 12 - 14 years |
| Origin & History | Russo-European Laika (Russko-Evropeïskaïa Laïka) is the name of a breed of hunting dog that originated in the forested region of northern Europe and Russia, one of several breeds developed from landrace Laika dogs of very ancient Spitz type. The Russo-European Laika itself dates to a breeding program begun in 1944 by E. I. Shereshevsky of the All-Union Research Institute for the Hunting Industry, in Kalinin (now Tver) Province. |
| Personality | This is a lively breed that enjoys time spent in the great outdoors. As a hunter who frequently trees game, the Russo-European Laika uses its voice to alert the hunter to the treed prey (typically a raccoon or squirrel). It may use its voice freely in the house as well because it is easily excited about things going on around it. The Russo-European Laika has a strong love of family. Once bonded to them, it is quite territorial and makes an excellent guard dog. It is extremely tolerant of children, although not of strangers or other unfamiliar dogs. Eager to please and with energy to spare, the Russo-European Laika benefits tremendously from training of any kind. Socialization must begin in puppyhood and continue throughout its life. Obedience classes or participation in a working association will give it a sense of purpose and the frequent exercise it requires. With those opportunities, it will learn quickly and become well balanced as a family dog. |
Care Requirements
| Health | There are no known breed-specific health concerns. |
| Grooming | The Laika has a medium to short easy-care coat that does not mat or tangle when it sheds. The coat should be brushed regularly and needs extra care during shedding season. This breed is a seasonal heavy shedder. |
| Exercise | An energetic and keen dog, the Russo-European Laika needs plenty of exercise; opportunities to run free and hunt are best. Without enough to do, it suffers from boredom and can become destructive. |
| Other Considerations | While it can live in an apartment, it may perform better in a small yard. It is important for owners to make sure these dogs are given lots of space to move around in. |
