West Siberian Laika

Zapadno-Sibirskaïa Laïka is the other name given for the West Siberian Laika. It is breed of dog that was primarily used for hunting. These dogs were indigenous to the people of West Siberia and Northern Ural. These dogs were used to hunt squirrels. They were also used to hunt other small animals with precious fur, residing in the snow covered Siberian forests. These dogs were strong and ferocious enough to capture these small animals, but also delicate enough to not damage the fur on them by ripping them apart. They got the job done, but with precision.

The West Siberian Laikas have a triangular shaped head. The male West Siberian Laikas stand tall at around 54 cm (21 inches) to 60 cm (24 inches). The female West Siberian Laikas stand tall at around 52 cm (20 inches) to 58 cm (23 inches).They have ears that are triangular in shape. It is placed at the top of their heads. The triangular shape makes them stand straight. They have a strong and broad body. Their withers are pronounced. They also have a chest that is very well developed. They have a tail that curls up at the ends. This tail exists all the way at the back.

West Siberian Laikas have a double coat. Their outer coat is coarse. Their under coat is dense. The coarseness of the outer coat protects the under coat. This also gives them feathering at their haunch, shoulders, withers, neck and cheeks. Their coat comes in various color combinations, and all the color combinations on these dogs are acceptable. The some of the more occurring color combinations are of gray shades, shades of red, black and white. These dogs are very active outdoors. They do not get well along with other dogs. They are very aggressive and highly territorial.

West Siberian Laikas that are properly trained and raised grow up to be excellent dogs. If it is done right, they will always be with their human companions and never lose track, even when they are out hunting in the wilderness. These dogs and their human masters form a tight bond. The West Siberian Laikas are said to be poor guard dogs for domestic cattle stock or at home. But, when it comes to hunting, they have a totally different attitude. They will do everything they can to protect their human companions till the end. This is especially seen when these dogs and the humans are out hunting for big game such as bears. The West Siberian Laikas do not get well adjusted to hot and humid weather. They are one of the best dogs used for hunting. Even though a puppy has not been trained for hunting, they will still show a lot of hunting instincts. These dogs are not suitable to living indoors. They will require a large open or fenced yard to keep their primal instincts in check. The best combination when going hunting is to own a male and a female. They work well together when hunting and they are also good for breeding.