East Siberian Laika: photo of the dog, characteristics of the breed

The East Siberian Laika is the largest of all Russian Laikas. This is a born hunter, capable of making independent decisions. Unique working qualities combine the characteristics of other hunting breeds: greyhounds, burrows, hounds. The Far Eastern Siberian Laika when hunting is a universal working dog that can find, drive out, track an animal, pick up game and bring it to it. If the size of the hole allows it, the dog will go after the prey without hesitation.

Breed standard

The first description of the standard was compiled in 1949, and amendments were made in 1981. It has been preserved in this form and is in operation today.

The East Siberian Laika has the largest number of colors among its relatives approved by the FCI standard.

The table shows the main characteristics of the breed.

The Eastern Laika is subject to rejection if the following disqualifying characteristics are present:

• Insufficient pigment of the nose and eyelids.
• Smoothed withers.
• A depressed back or a curved back.
• The tail has two ring curls or is saber-shaped.
• Undershot or overshot.
• Protruding or sunken eyes.
• Rounded ear tips, drooping ears, lack of fluff on the inner surface.
• Excessive aggression, cowardice.
• Castrated males, cryptorchidism.
• Long neck.
• Pointed muzzle.

Animal color

Upon careful examination of the wool of the Oriental, the following characteristics are given:

• The coat is abundant with a rigid structure;
• The area of ​​the head, ears, legs with a predominance of short hair;
• The husky's neck and shoulders are covered with lush fur;
• The inside of the legs has moderate fur.

The main colors are presented in the list below:

1. White;
2. Redhead;
3. Gray;
4. Piebald;
5. All shades of brown;
6. Black and tan.

Attention! If in front of you is a brown, marbled, blue and black dog. This means that the breed is crossed with other species. All this is a violation of the standard.

Photos of the East Siberian Laika with its real color are presented in an open source.

Character

East Siberian Laikas are a model of independence. They are easy to train, but at the same time they reserve the decisions for themselves. An easy-going character borders on stubbornness. It is impossible to force a dog to do something; you need to be able to negotiate. A Laika on a hunt is not a servant, but an equal partner.

It is within the power of the owner to build friendly, equal relationships with the pet. The dog willingly makes contact with people, but does not feel much love for strangers. Vigilance, endurance, and mobility are characteristic of this breed.

Application

Laikas were bred as hunting helpers and for use as sled dogs.

Unlike its relatives, the West Siberian husky and the Karelian bear husky, the eastern one matures late. The dog is ready for a full hunt when it is closer to two years of age. Going out hunting with a husky is a pleasure for both the owner and the pet. The peculiarity of this breed is its selective pursuit of prey.

The East Siberian Laika, trained for a certain type of game, pursues only that. It is rare for a dog to be distracted by another animal.

Interesting Facts

The East Siberian Laika breed developed in isolation, so very little is known about it.

However, there are still several interesting points associated with these animals:

1. Scientists believe that all northern huskies descended from one ancestor - the fossil dog Inostrantsev. The remains of the animal were discovered in 1882 on the shores of Lake Ladoga.
2. Polar explorer Nansen Fridtjof from Norway purchased dogs from Russia for the expedition of 1893–1896. It is believed that these were East Siberian huskies.
3. After the collapse of the USSR, many nurseries of East Siberian huskies ceased to exist, which is why the animals were on the verge of extinction. Work is currently underway to restore the population.

Socialization

Early socialization will allow you to raise a friendly and obedient dog. From an early age, it is necessary to take the puppy in your arms and pet it so that it quickly gets used to people. In a family circle, the dog is capable of becoming a loyal friend and companion; he is wary of strangers.

Pets are perceived as prey. Therefore, it is undesirable to keep cats and birds in the same area. Laika is aggressive towards other dogs. She has a great instinct to protect her territory.

Little children make huskies want to play. You cannot leave an animal alone with a child. The dog, without meaning to, can scare the baby. At the same time, a pet can become a good and caring friend.

Training

The animal must be trained by one owner or instructor, starting from 6 months of age. They are trained to catch the necessary game. AFL are excellent at hunting birds, small fur-bearing animals, and even bears.

Dog handlers recommend training children using the example of adult dogs. This way the likes will quickly understand what is wanted from them.

Another very interesting feature of this breed is that the puppies perceive their family as a pack. Therefore, one of the small pets may imagine itself as a leader. This cannot be allowed, otherwise there will be no obedience to the owner’s commands.

How to choose a puppy

When choosing a baby, pay attention to his physical condition and temperament. The East Siberian husky puppy is curious and brave, without showing anger or aggression. He is interested in everything and is always ready to explore new objects. During feeding, a strong puppy strives to reach the rear nipples of the bitch, while pushing away its weaker brothers and sisters. A healthy puppy is constantly in search of food.

The fur of a small husky is shiny, smooth, without bald spots. The baby's tail should be curled into a ring. By the color of the nails, hunters can predict the puppy's purpose. It is believed that dark claws indicate a predisposition to hunting large animals, and light claws indicate a predisposition to hunt small game.

When looking for a future hunting partner, you need to study the pedigree. It’s good if it is possible to trace ancestors back to the fifth generation: working qualities are inherited.

Usage

Most AFLs have innate hunting qualities. Thanks to this, they begin to work independently; skillfully delivered coaching contributes to the development of the desired talents. The Eastern European Laika uses smell, hearing and sight in its work. The found animal barks. He follows the trail in silence. Different dogs exhibit the instinct to grab, strangle and eat prey to varying degrees. When hunting large animals, it is useful, but in the case of furs it leads to damage to the prey. Unlike other huskies, the VSL typically searches at a trot, and at times the dog moves to a walk or gallop. Works independently, without constant guidance and control of the hunter. She is smart, has a well-developed sense of smell, an approximate reaction, and monitors the owner’s movements. Constantly calling the dog reduces work efficiency. Can work on birds and even fetch from the water.

In the traditional habitats of East Siberian huskies, more than 30 species of animals and birds are hunted. The most important species are squirrel, sable, fox, muskrat, bear, and seal.

In some areas, hunters also use huskies to transport their equipment and prey. Those who live along the banks of rivers often train their dogs to work in a harness while the boat is sailing against the current. At the same time, the husky avoids, and sometimes even swims around, obstacles so as not to tangle the line. On the eastern and northern coasts of Lake Baikal, dogs are used in households to transport water and firewood. According to hunters, this adversely affects working qualities, so really good working dogs are not harnessed.

Features of maintenance and care

The East Siberian Laika is a freedom-loving and physically active animal. Living freely in the city is not possible. The special constitution of the body requires an active lifestyle, so the best place for it is the countryside. The dog is kept on a leash. An irrepressible hunting passion drives the dog in search of adventure. A husky that finds itself free can attack neighboring animals and birds.

Grooming

Caring for a husky's fur is not difficult. Does not require frequent bathing. Periodically, you can wipe the wool with a cloth moistened with a weak aqueous solution of vinegar. During the period of seasonal molting, the dog actively loses hair. Frequent brushing will help speed up this process.

Dental care includes weekly examinations for the presence of tartar. If necessary, soft plaque is removed using a damp gauze swab.

The claws of working huskies do not require grooming or trimming; they wear down naturally. Dogs living in urban areas have their nails trimmed as they grow.

Walk

Oriental huskies require long walks. If there is not enough walks, the dog may begin to damage property and destroy the apartment. Therefore, keeping in rural areas, with a large local area, will be an ideal place for keeping.

Feeding

Laika is an unpretentious dog. She accepts dry food well. But experienced hunters believe that this breed needs only natural food.

East Siberian husky puppies are sent to new owners at the age of about one and a half to two months. By this time, he can already take food such as oatmeal cooked in meat and bone broth.

After 2 months, puppies can be given natural food. Salted and smoked foods are prohibited. To strengthen bones, add half a teaspoon of finely crushed egg shells to your food daily. At this age, the puppy begins to receive finely chopped raw meat.

It is necessary to teach your dog to eat raw vegetables and fruits: beets, carrots, tomatoes, apples. They are necessary for normal digestion and also contribute to the natural cleaning of teeth. To strengthen its teeth, the East Siberian husky is regularly given large raw bones and tendons to chew on.

At 2 months of age, the number of feedings is 5-6 times a day. By 8-10 months of age, the dog is fed twice a day, the diet is the same as that of an adult. Many breeders note that Siberian huskies regulate the amount of food they eat.

A working dog that regularly goes hunting has a better appetite than a city apartment pet. The greater the energy expenditure, the more the dog requires food.

The table shows a list of recommended and prohibited products.

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Health

East Siberian huskies are distinguished by good health. The average life expectancy is 10-12 years, but there have been cases of longevity. Many dogs, with proper care and proper exercise, can live 14-15 years, remaining in excellent working shape.

Diseases

Laikas are not susceptible to genetic pathologies. But they are characterized by diseases associated with hunting activities:

• Leptospirosis. While walking or while hunting, a dog can eat a mouse and become infected with this disease. Or be bitten by a marten or weasel, which can also cause infection.
• Esophageal worms. While hunting, the East Siberian husky can catch and swallow a small rodent suffering from this infection. And thus she becomes infected.
• Snake bites. The viper is the enemy of huskies. Often the dog strives to enter into a fight with a dangerous opponent. A snake bite to the neck area is especially dangerous. The owner must have anti-snake serum with him. This will help save your pet from death.

Vaccinations

A healthy dog ​​is the owner's concern. Carrying out routine mandatory vaccinations will protect your pet from dangerous fatal diseases, one of which is rabies. Owners of huskies are advised not to miss vaccination dates, as the dog is especially susceptible to diseases when in contact with wild animals. Before vaccinations, a number of preparatory measures must be taken:

1. Expulsion of worms. Almost all puppies are infected with worms. Two weeks before the expected vaccination, dogs are given anthelmintics.
2. Flea and tick treatment.
3. A visit to a veterinarian who will give an opinion on your health status.

If at the time of vaccination the pet is not feeling well, is lethargic, has poor appetite, or has digestive problems, the vaccination is not given until complete recovery.

Complex vaccines allow you to simultaneously vaccinate your dog against a number of diseases. The Nobivak vaccine has proven itself well. The veterinarian selects an individual immunization schedule.

The standard schedule is:

• The first vaccination is at the age of 8-10 weeks. The dog is vaccinated against diseases such as canine distemper, adenovirus infection, parvovirus, parainfluenza.
• After 2 weeks, revaccination is performed.
• The third is after a complete change of teeth, usually at 6 months. The same vaccine is administered as at 8-10 weeks, plus anti-rabies serum is added.
• The next vaccination is at the age of 12 months. All previous vaccinations are completed.

Then the dog is vaccinated once a year for the rest of its life.

Diseases

These dogs are incredibly resilient and have very strong immunity. They are not characterized by serious genetic diseases. However, there are several very dangerous points. The Laika needs to be properly cared for, and therefore you need to think it over carefully before making the important decision to get such a dog.

Owners of huskies need to beware of two diseases characteristic of them - distemper and rabies. Symptoms of plague are diarrhea, fever, chills and lethargy. But not everything is so scary, since this disease can be cured, and it is safe for humans.

Rabies is an acute infectious disease that cannot be cured. Symptoms are aggression and inappropriate behavior. Therefore, it is important not to forget about annual vaccinations. To avoid this disease, do not allow your pet to get into garbage, eat off the ground, or have contact with stray dogs.

Mating

Laiki is a breed of dog that has not been modified as a result of human selection. The reproductive function is preserved at the level of its ancestors - wild predators such as wolves, jackals: they are ready to mate once a year.

With the appearance of the first objective signs of estrus, the bitch is isolated from the males, preventing escape and accidental mating. At the same time, it is necessary to carry out measures to expel worms and treat the dog for fleas and ticks. Giving your dog anti-parasitic drugs after breeding can cause premature birth or deformed puppies.

On days 11-12 after the start of estrus, you can begin the process. But it’s better to observe the dog’s behavior. The main sign of a bitch’s readiness is that when stroking the rump, the dog stands calmly and moves its tail to the side. The second way to check is to let the dog down. If the bitch lets you sit, it means she is ready. At the same time, both huskies are kept on their leashes.

The meeting for the “newlyweds” is arranged in the morning, after a good walk. The bitch is brought into the dog's territory. East Siberian huskies mate on an empty stomach. Males usually breed on their own; sometimes you have to hold the bitch, especially if this is her first mating. If she is too aggressive and tries to bite the dog, then she is muzzled.

After mounting the male, mating occurs and lasts 15-35 minutes. At this time, the dogs cannot be separated, but on the contrary, every effort must be made so that the dogs do not pull in different directions. At the end of the mating, the bitch is taken away on a leash, not allowing her to urinate. Subsequent mating must be carried out every other day.

A completed mating of East Siberian Laikas is subject to mandatory registration with the hunting club.

Karelian Bear

An ancient Finnish breed, which, as the name suggests, is used for bear hunting. Very similar in appearance to the Russian-European Laika, has the same color, build and coat length. The dog is small in size - 52-57 cm at the withers, 17-27 kg in weight. The body is elongated, lightweight, elegant.

The breeding and restoration of the breed began in 1936, the standard was written in 1945. Like other huskies, these are classified as the fifth group and the second section.

Like most Laikas, Karelkas have a long wedge-shaped skull, an elongated dry body, straight paws and a tail thrown into a ring. The color can be white or black with large spots.

These huskies can live in apartment conditions, but the best option, of course, would be a country house with a fenced area. The climate is needed to be cold or temperate, because heat, like its counterparts, is destructive. The wool is regularly combed and water hygiene procedures are carried out a couple of times a year.

This breed is considered the heritage of Finland, so you will have to pay 60,000-80,000 rubles for a purebred representative. Without a pedigree, puppies cost about 15,000-20,000 rubles.

How much do East Siberian Laika puppies cost?

The average price for an eastern husky puppy is 20-25 thousand rubles. When searching through private advertisements or at bird markets, you can find a pet cheaper. But no one will give any guarantee regarding the purity of the breed.

Nurseries

To purchase an East Siberian husky puppy, it is better to contact nurseries. Only here you can find a guaranteed purebred puppy with excellent working qualities. Experienced breeders will tell you everything about the pros and cons of the breed, and help with advice and recommendations. After all, the husky is a hunting breed. Puppies inherit all their best qualities from their parents.

By buying a puppy from an unknown breeder, you can get not just an ordinary mongrel, but a dog that is not at all intended for hunting. The main breed nurseries are located in Siberia and the Far East. In the central part of Russia you can contact the Laiki nursery. It is located in Pushkino, Moscow region. ( www.laiki-pitomnik.ru ).

Siberian huskies are freedom-loving animals. They need active physical activity. Hunting is the best way to realize natural instincts.

Diseases life expectancy

The East Siberian Laika is a healthy and hardy breed. Native Siberians are not prone to any diseases, but puppies raised in nurseries do not have such strong immunity. They are characterized by:

• plague;
• rabies;
• enteritis;
• retinal atrophy;
• clouding of the lens of the eye;
• diseases of the oral cavity.

Average life expectancy: 12-15 years.

Comparison of breeds

The East Siberian and West Siberian Laika developed in similar natural conditions, so they are difficult to distinguish. Often this can only be done by specialists.

The most obvious differences include:

1. Exterior. Easterners have a massive and elongated build. They stand out for their menacing appearance and powerful jaws. Westerners have a more modest size and are distinguished by their leanness. Their ears are set high and pointed at the ends. Easterners have medium-set ears with rounded tips.
2. Color. The Western European Laika is characterized by a black and black and tan coat. Easterners do not have this type of color.
3. Character. Easterners are less inclined to suppress the owner. Westerners are known for their cunning and dominant nature.

Both breeds are excellent hunting dogs, tolerant of children and strangers (in their territory), loyal to their owner and easy to train.