Photo credit: Konrad Loesch.

Physical Characteristics

Breed Group:

Spitz group.

Weight:

Approximately 44-66 pounds (20-30 kg).

Height:

Approximately 19.5-23 inches (50-58 cm).

Color(s):

Common colours include grey, white, black, and salt-and-pepper.

Coat:

The coat is short and straight on the head and ears, and longer on the neck and shoulders. This breed also has a full undercoat.

Overview

Character:

Russo-European Laikas are lively and friendly dogs around familiar people. Loyal and devoted, Russo-European Laikas are also very affectionate companions.

Country of Origin:

Russia.

History:

The Russo-European Laika is a member of the spitz family and originated in the region lying between Finland and the Uralian mountains. Descended from hunting Laikas of northern Russia, this breed is now commonly found in central Russia as well. The first breed description for the Russo-European Laika was established in 1947, and the description currently used was established in 1980.

Name:

The word “laika” means “barker.” This breed is also known as the Rusko Evropeiskaya Laika.

Temperament:

Russo-European Laikas have a stable temperament and are very tolerant of children. These dogs have a strong territorial instinct and have a tendency to be aggressive when strange dogs approach their property. Russo-European Laikas are also suspicious of strangers and tend to bark a lot.

Care

Training:

Russo-European Laikas are quite easy to train, especially when friendly training techniques are used and harsh treatment is avoided.

Activity:

This breed is highly active and requires plenty of exercise and opportunities to run off leash.

Ownership:

The Russo-European Laika is not suitable as a house pet. If this breed does not receive plenty of exercise and does not have the chance to run off leash, it is likely to find negative ways to burn off its energy. Russo-European Laikas have a strong hunting instinct and are likely to chase game whenever they have the opportunity, at times disappearing for hours on their own. Potential owners should keep in mind that in some countries it’s illegal for dogs to hunt on their own and so such places may not be suitable for this breed.

Breeders

No breeders listed at this time.

List of dog breeds