Country of OriginRussia
Nicknames and Other NamesVostotchno-Sibirskaia Laika, ESL
Scientific NameCanis lupus familaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupSpitz and Primitive Dogs
Bred ForHunting, Sled pulling, Drover
SizeMedium-Sized
Recognized ByFCI, UKC, ACA, DRQA
Life Span12-15 Years
Ideal Weight35-55 Pounds (male and female)
Ideal HeightMale: 22-26 inches
Female: 20-24 Inches
Fur TypeMedium, Dense, Double-Coated
Common ColorsGray, Black, Red, Any Shades of Brown
MarkingsNone
AvailabilityModerately Available
AchievementsNone
Suitable for ApartmentsNo
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToWest Siberian laika

The East Siberian Laika is a medium to the large-sized dog. It is a versatile hunting dog that is also the largest of the four Russian Laika breeds. It is an energetic, territorial, and very loving dog that makes a great family companion for an active and loving family.

East Siberian Laika is a spitz-type, strong dog breed that has a muscular body that gives a close resemblance to the wolf. The eyes are oval-shaped, ears are pointed upwards giving it an alert looks. The tail is curled up over its back. Its overall appearance is powerful and alert.

Origin and History

The East Siberian Laika was originated in Russia as a versatile hunting dog. It was bred as a hunting dog, sled dog, drover, and many more. There are four Laika breeds: Karelo-Finnish Laika, Russo-European Laika, East Siberian Laika, and West Siberian Laika. It was established as a separate breed in 1947.

The use of East Siberian Laika was declining when the hunters used dog breeds that were bred for the specific purpose like sighthound, gun dog, and scent hound. They almost became extinct but they were restored by breeding program between 1930 to 1950. Their number has been increased since then but are still considered as a rare breed.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the East Siberian Laika is independent, alert, and somewhat stubborn. They are friendly with the people they love and are protective of them. They are a very alert dog that is observant of the surrounding and warn their owner if there is something suspicious.

Behavior: The East Siberian Laika is a very active dog that needs a good amount of exercise regularly. If they do not get enough physical work, they become depressed, anxious, and destructive. They start to bark, chew and scratch stuff or dig the ground when they get anxious. Therefore, provide them with a good amount of regular exercise.

East Siberian Laika hunting bear
East Siberian Laika hunting bear.
Image Source: easypetMD

Personality: The personality of the East Siberian Laika is gentle, active, and fearless. They are gentle and calm when they are around the people they love. They get along with other pets in the house but they need to be raised together.

Trainability

Training East Siberian Laika is not a very difficult task to does if you are an experienced dog owner that is familiar with its behavior. They are of independent nature, so can be stubborn sometimes. Train them with consistency and firmness.

Start with basic obedience training and once they master the basics, gradually enroll them to advance training. Reward them with delicious treats and a lot of vocal praises. This will keep them motivated to be focused on the training.

Is East Siberian Laika Child-Friendly?

East Siberian Laika gets along with children very well as they are loving and playful with them. They do best with older kids who know to handle dogs and behave around them. With small kids, they need to be supervised so that there is not harsh behavior from either party. Teach your children to behave around dogs and handle them gently.

East Siberian Laika is child friendly
East Siberian Laika is child-friendly.
Image Source: Instagram-@karhunvartijan

Facts

  • The East Siberian Laika is a rare breed.
  • It has not yet been recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesHip Dysplasia
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredRabies, Canine Coronavirus, Leptospirosis,
Canine Parvovirus, Kennel Cough,
Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper
SheddingAverage Shedder
DroolingAverage Drooler
GroomingEasy and Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialAverage
Separation AnxietyHigh Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 25%
Fat: 8%-10%
Glucosamine
Probiotics
Multivitamins

East Siberian Laika is generally a healthy breed that is prone to a few genetic and canine health problems.

  • Elbow Dysplasia: It is a condition where the joints of the elbow are dislocated from its original place. It will cause pain on their elbow making it difficult for them to move from one place to another. It is a genetic problem, so before buying a puppy from a breeder, check for its family health problem.
  • Obesity: Obesity is a common dog health problem. When eating becomes more and exercises become less, your dog is likely to get obese. So provide your dog with a complete balanced diet and involve them in regular physical exercise.

Colors

The East Siberian Laika comes in the combination of the following colors:

  • Black and Tan
  • Piebald
  • Black and White
  • Solid Black
  • Brindle

Puppies

East Siberian Laika puppy
East Siberian Laika puppy.
Image Source: dogbreedslist

Cost: The average cost of the East Siberian Laika puppy is between $500-$600 USD.

Size

Height: The average height of the East Siberian Laika is between 20-26 inches.

Weight: The average weight of the East Siberian Laika is between 40-51 pounds.

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