The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world, and to act as a guide for judges.
Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence, and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated.
Any departure from the following should be considered a fault, and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog and on the dog’s ability to perform its traditional work.
History
The East Siberian Laika is descended from the Spitz-like Aboriginal dogs that were most likely brought to the areas of the Baikal Lake region, Irkutsk Province, Evenki National Territory, Amur River basin and the Maritime Territory by tribes that were migrating from the west. Early Laikas in the east of Siberia were diverse in their size, head proportions, size of ears, and shape and carriage of the tail. Some of this diversity is still seen in the breed today. The East Siberian Laika is the largest of the Russian Laika breeds used for hunting. It is also used as an all-purpose draft, sledge and drover dog.
The East Siberian Laika was recognized by the United Kennel Club January 1, 1996.
General Appearance
The East Siberian Laika is a large, strong dog, nearly square in proportion, with a typical Spitz-type head and a medium-length, double coat of varying colors.
Height: 21.5 to 25 inches
Weight: Up to 45 pounds
Characteristics
A natural hunting dog, the East Siberian Laika has a strong instinct to hunt both large and small game. The breed is territorial and prone to be aggressive to any dog of the same sex that invades its property. They are not normally aggressive towards people but can be good watchdogs.
Grooming
The East Siberian Laika does shed often and hair will collect around your home. He does also shed heavily seasonally. Expect to brush your East Siberian Laika at least once a week; except during seasonal shedding when he needs to be brushed daily. When grooming your East Siberian Laika, use a pin brush or slicker brush and a metal comb. A de-shedder may also be used although with his coat being so dense, the de-shedder might not be as effective. Only bathe him a few times a year, preferably when he is shedding seasonally.
Use a mild shampoo when bathing him and ensure that he is thoroughly rinsed. The hair between his toes and foot pads should be trimmed every few weeks. His toenails need to be trimmed as needed. Clean his ears weekly and check for any redness or foul odor that might indicate an infection. The East Siberian Laika is not a hypoallergenic dog.
Training
East Siberian Laika Temperament Developed initially as a hunting dog for small and large game, the East Siberian Laika evolved into an all-around dog through the years. He is a stubborn and independent dog but will generally make a good family companion. He usually does well with children that he is raised with although he may not be tolerant of very young children that do not respect him. The East Siberian Laika is a territorial dog and will generally not do well with other dogs, especially dogs of the same gender. Early socialization is important, but even then he must be constantly watched around other dogs.
The prey drive of the East Siberian Laika is very high and he will not do well in a household with other pets. When properly trained he will be a well-adjusted family member and will bond closely to his family and will act as protector for all family members. The East Siberian Laika makes an excellent watchdog; however, he can become aggressive towards strangers.
Exercise
East Siberian Laika Activity Requirements The East Siberian Laika is a very high-energy dog and he does require a lot of daily exercise to keep him happy. Long walks or hikes are a great way to let him wear down. Dog parks are not recommended because of his intense dislike of most other dogs. Certain dog sports such as cart pulling, agility or even obedience trials would be a good way to bond with him and give him plenty of exercises. He requires a sturdy, heavy-duty fence that will keep him contained and other animals in the neighborhood safe from his hunting prowess.
