Zapadno-Sibirskaïa Laïka
Overview
The West Siberian Laika is a medium to large size dog, strong, well built northern breed, with a general wolf-like appearance. The breed is never coarse or massive. Due to the arctic conditions in the country of origin, the coat is very important. It must be double, dense, very hard and not too long.
Intelligent, willing to learn and easily trainable. Affectionate and loyal to his family, and friendly to strangers. The breed has a strongly developed hunting instinct and a keen sense of direction. When he finds game, he alerts the hunter by barking.
| Size | Medium to Large |
| 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) |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Colors | Black Gray Sable Salt & Pepper White |
| Origin | Russia |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
This is not an apartment dwelling breed of dog. It is active and loves to explore its world, and a bored Laika is a Laika who is going to get into trouble in one way or the other to occupy its active mind. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
The West Siberian Laika needs lots of exercise, which includes a daily, long, brisk walk. Will do best with a large fenced in yard. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: The West Siberian Laika is known to listen to commands and obey its owner. Expect fewer repetitions when training this breed. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
This breed has a double coat and does shed a lot during the seasonal molt. However, once molted out and brushed he is manageable not much different than a German Shepherd or other dogs with double coats that shed. One important aspect to consider is that the WSL does not have natural dog body odor as with most modern breeds. A clean WSL even when wet does not smell "doggy". It will develop a warm climate coat once adapted to the warmth. The WSL is a naturally clean natured dog. Outside of seasonal shedding the breed is a clean companion. Its coat has the ability to naturally shed off dirt due to not having an oily coat as some modern dogs have. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Routine brushing will help. Be prepared to vacuum often! |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |