Laika

Russian Laika are multifunctional hunting dogs, used in the expansive Siberian forests by professional hunters, for hunting all different kinds of wild game. The Russo-European Laika is described as being of medium size, with prick-ears and a sickle tail carried over the back. Temperament should be non aggressive. Colour can be any of the normal Spitz-type colours, but red and ticking on the legs is undesireable. Word Laika simply means a dog that barks. Indeed, any hunting Laika is a bark pointer. Since prehistoric times, these dogs served native people as hunting assistants and as watchdogs. Hunting style of all Laikas is generally similar. However, each Laika breed has its own advantages associated with adaptations to ecological conditions and most popular game in country of their origin. All Russian Laika breeds are very affectionate and devoted to the master and his family dogs. They are efficient and versatile hunting dogs. Their wolf-like appearance, endurance at work, strong health, intelligence and ability to survive under conditions of minimal care make them particularly attractive for many hunters dog lovers who value primitive dogs. Siberian hunters could not afford to keep several dogs, each specialized in different kinds of game. Therefore, a Laika should be capable to do whatever his owner requires. If there is something wrong with the dog, or if it is not a competent hunting dog, it is simply killed. This is the reason why these breeds have developed into powerful and healthy dogs, although their general appearance may differ. The hunters themselves live in the wilderness, in their opinion a Laika is part of the nature and the forest is his natural habitat. They are very sensitive and they have the capability of learning many commands. Although males are easily tempted to participate in a fight with other males, these dogs are always friendly and reliable – never aggressive - towards people. Because of these qualities and because of the fact that many city people with ‘green’ ideas consider a Laika exotic and charming, these breeds have also found friends among non-hunters.

There are 3 official FCI recognized breeds: the West Siberian Laika, the East Siberian Laika and the Russian-European Laika.