The Russo-European Laika is a dog breed originating from northern Russia, descended from various varieties of Laikas, including the Cheremis and the Zyrianskiy. After World War II, these varieties were grouped together to form the breed as we know it today. This versatile working dog has been used for hunting and is well-suited to life in vast spaces.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Russia
- Type: Working dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 20-30 kg
- Female: 20-30 kg
- Height:
- Male: 52-58 cm
- Female: 48-54 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Not ideal for apartment living)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (He can get along well with children, but requires early training to avoid a dominant temperament)
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (He may have difficulties with other animals, especially if he has not been properly socialized)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (May be reserved or distant towards strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (This dog needs large spaces and prefers a rural or semi-rural environment)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Regular brushing is necessary for his dense coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate due to his care needs)
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: Weekly brushing is necessary, especially during shedding periods.
- Hygiene: Regular ear checks and dental care are recommended to maintain his health.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 500-1000 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 450-650 €
🏡 Important note
The Russo-European Laika is an independent and energetic dog that requires an experienced owner capable of managing his temperament. He is not recommended for beginners, as he can be difficult to train and manage. His working dog nature means he thrives in large open spaces, and he will prefer a rural environment over an urban setting. He is an ideal companion for people with outdoor spaces and an active lifestyle, with a high need for exercise.
