The West Siberian Laika is a robust, intelligent, and very enduring dog, primarily used for hunting. Originating from Russia, it excels in demanding environments due to its great strength and energy. This versatile dog is an excellent companion for active and experienced families.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Russia (West Siberia)
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 20-30 kg
- Female: 16-25 kg
- Height:
- Male: 56-66 cm
- Female: 51-61 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Needs space and a fenced yard to expend energy)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Calm: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (If well socialized, it can be a good companion for children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Early socialization is necessary to avoid conflicts)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (May be reserved with strangers, requiring socialization)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Prefers open spaces and a garden to expend energy)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Regular brushing needed)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate cost for basic care)
- Care frequency:
- Grooming: Regular brushing is important to avoid tangles and maintain healthy skin.
- Baths: Only necessary in cases of significant dirt.
- Dental hygiene: Teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental issues.
- General care: Monitor nails and ensure regular veterinary visits to detect any problems.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-2000 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 1000-1500 €
🏡 Important note
The West Siberian Laika is a dynamic and versatile dog. It is essential to provide regular physical and mental stimulation. It adapts well to active owners who can offer frequent outings and ample space to expend energy. This dog prefers outdoor living and larger spaces, such as a house with a fenced garden. Due to its independent and energetic temperament, it is recommended for experienced owners who can manage its specific needs and ensure good socialization from a young age.
He can get along perfectly with children and other animals if he is well socialized. However, he may be reserved towards strangers and therefore requires proper training and socialization to avoid any undesirable behavior.
