Yakutian Laika

Breed Overview

The Yakutian Laika is a working dog breed originating from the Republic of Sakha, in Siberia. The breed is an ancient spitz-type that has been used for thousands of years for hunting, sledding, and as a guard dog. Yakutian Laika are strong, robust dogs that stand between 22 and 25 inches tall, and weigh an average of 50-70 pounds. They have a thick double coat which can be seen in four different colors: white, gray, brown, and black.

Care and Grooming

Yakutian Laika require daily brushing to ensure their coat remains mat free and in optimal health. They should also be bathed and groomed on a regular basis to keep their coat and skin in top condition. As they are active and outdoorsy dogs, it is best to maintain their nails on a regular basis to prevent issues.

Training and Socialization

Yakutian Laika are intelligent, loyal, and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train when handled properly. Early socialization and training is extremely important for this breed, as it will help them learn good manners and better understand the expected behavior.

Health and Wellness

The Yakutian Laika is a generally healthy breed that is not prone to any major genetic diseases. Regular veterinarian visits are still recommended to ensure that your pet is in peak condition and that all necessary vaccinations, flea and tick prevention medications, and deworming medications are all up to date.

Living Environment

As an active and outdoorsy breed, the Yakutian Laika will thrive in a home with access to a yard, or plenty of space to roam and explore. They will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy, and so regular walks and walks in natural areas are recommended.

Temperament and Personality

The Yakutian Laika is an intelligent, loyal, and protective breed that makes an excellent companion and family pet. They will form strong bonds with their family, and can also be territorial to strangers and new people.

Common Challenges

Due to their territorial nature, Yakutian Laika can sometimes be overprotective of their families and homes, and this can make them difficult to handle if not properly addressed. Early socialization and training is the best way to ensure this breed is well behaved and friendly. They also have a tendency to bark, so proper training and management will help to reduce their barking.