Yakutian Laika

The Yakutian Laika is a breed of dog originating from Siberia. This breed of dog is generally medium sized, with a fairly dense coat and a tail that curls over its back. They are very hardy and able to withstand extreme temperatures.

General details

The breed is of medium size. Males can weigh between 20 and 25 kg, while females range between 17 and 22 kg. The height in males is between 54 and 60 cm and in females between 51 and 56 cm. Their life expectancy is 12 to 15 years. In addition, they belong to Group 5 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes Spitz and primitive type dogs.

Breed history in brief

The Yakutian Laika is a breed of dog native to the Yakutia region of Russia. This breed was developed by the natives of this region to assist them in hunting animals for their survival. This breed has been used for centuries to help local hunters find and catch prey such as foxes, wolves, bear and even moose. Over the years, this breed has also been used to herd animals, especially reindeer and horses. Today, the Yakutian Laika is a highly regarded and respected breed in the Yakutia region, both for its hunting aptitude and its friendly nature. These dogs are also being successfully used as therapy dogs to help people with physical and mental disabilities.

Breed characteristics

This breed belongs to the group of Nordic working dogs, and is characterized by a strong and agile appearance, with a robust structure and a strong muscular and bony constitution. Its head is relatively large, with a short muzzle and a somewhat arched forehead. Its coat is soft, dense and very thick, with a double coat consisting of a curly outer coat and a softer undercoat. The characteristic colors of this breed are gray, black, white, beige, dark red and brown. This breed is characterized by its intelligence and obedience, which makes it ideal for any type of work. They are also very resistant to cold, which makes them ideal for living in cold climates. This breed is very loyal to its owner, and is very protective, making it a great choice for those looking for a life companion.

Common health problems

Yakutian Laika can be subject to various diseases and disorders. These include hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, von Willebrand's disease, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, Addison's disease, lens disease, epilepsy and spinocerebellar ataxia.