The East Siberian Laika, also known as Vostotchno-Sibirskaïa Laïka, is an exceptionally well-suited working dog for the harsh conditions of the Taiga and the vast expanses of Siberia. This robust and energetic dog has been shaped by centuries of work alongside Siberian hunters.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Russia, East Siberia
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 18-28 kg
- Female: 18-28 kg
- Height:
- Male: 56-66 cm
- Female: 51-60 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Prefer a house with a large garden, less suited for apartment living)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Playful: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be independent, but well socialized with children)
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Its hunting instinct may make it less compatible with other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (May be reserved or even distant with foreigners)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Not recommended, prefers outdoor space and open environments)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Requires moderate maintenance to keep its dense coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Average maintenance cost)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Regular brushing is necessary to avoid tangles and excessive shedding.
- Additional maintenance: Ear cleaning and nail trimming, with particular attention to its need for physical and mental stimulation.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 450-650 €
🏡 Important note
The East Siberian Laika is an active, independent, and determined dog. It is particularly suited for experienced owners who can meet its intense physical and mental needs. It prefers open spaces and an active lifestyle, making it an excellent companion for hunters or people with a large garden. Its protective nature and hunting instinct also make it a great guard dog, although it requires firm training to manage its independence.
