Yakutian Laika: Your Complete Guide

Yakutian laikas are smart, medium-sized dogs that absolutely love to play with you while doing all they can to keep you safe. They’re also a sight to behold and one of the prettiest breeds out there thanks to their exquisite double coat.

In this article, we’re going to look at what these dogs are all about, where they come from, how you can care for them, if they’re a good fit for you, and lots more. If you’ve been searching for everything you could possibly want to know about them then you’re in the right place, so without further ado, let’s start!

Quick Look at the Yakutian Laika

Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Yakutian Laikas?

The Yakutian laika is a type of dog that comes from a really cold region in Russia called Yakutia. These dogs have been around for a long time and were used by the locals, called the Sakha, to help with things like herding reindeer, pulling sleds, and keeping them safe.

The Yakutian laika is special because it’s really tough and can handle the super cold weather. It has a thick fur coat that helps it stay warm. People have taken steps to preserve the Yakutian laika as it’s a significant part of the history of the region and still serves a valuable purpose. These dogs are known for being tough workers and are good at adapting to different situations.

What Do Yakutian Laikas Look Like?

Yakutian laikas have pointy ears and a fluffy tail that curls on their back. They have thick fur that keeps them warm in really cold weather and it can be different colors like white, silver, or black – some dogs might have a mix of these colors.

The outer fur is straight and rough, while the inside fur is soft and thick. These dogs look strong and tough, which makes sense because they were originally working dogs in Yakutia. Here are the potential coat colors:

What Size Is a Yakutian Laika?

Yakutian laikas can be medium or large sized, but they’re not overly large and you can easily pick them up with a bit of effort.

• Height: 20-23 inches
• Weight: 40-55 pounds

What Is a Yakutian Laikas Coat Type and Length?

Yakutian laikas have a unique kind of double coat, which bears resemblance to that of polar bears. The outer coat is straight and coarse, providing protection against harsh weather conditions. The undercoat, on the other hand, is dense and soft, adding insulation to keep the dog warm in frigid temperatures.

What Is a Yakutian Laikas Temperament?

Yakutian laikas are clever, independent dogs with lots of energy. They’re good at doing various tasks and like to keep a watchful eye over their family. These dogs are loyal and protective, and because they were originally working dogs, they’re tough and can handle different situations.

They might be a bit shy around new people though, so it’s important to help them get used to meeting others when they’re still young. This process of ‘early socialization’ is really important for dog breeds like this to make sure they grow up to be sociable buddies.

Are Yakutian Laikas Good with Kids?

Yakutian laikas can be good with children, but like any dog, their behavior may depend on various factors including their individual temperament, early socialization, and the specific interactions they have with children.

Generally, these dogs are known for their loyalty and can form strong bonds with their families, including children. As long as your kids know how to behave around dogs, you won’t have to worry about anything during playtime.

Are Yakutian Laikas Good with Other Animals?

Yakutian laikas can be friends with other dogs and pets like cats if they are taught socialization skills early on. However, like all working dogs, they might want to chase smaller animals because of their history as working and hunting dogs.

It’s important to let them meet other animals in a friendly way and teach them good behavior. You may have to monitor how they behave around smaller pets, like cats, and use positive encouragement to help them get along.

Every dog is different, so some Yakutian laikas might have a stronger instinct to chase than others. That’s where you come in – train and keep an eye on them when they’re with smaller animals to make sure they’re not displaying any undesirable behavior and that the smaller animals are safe.

Are Yakutian Laikas Aggressive?

Yakutian laikas, just like any dog, can act in different ways based on their own personality, training, and experiences. They’re known for being loyal and protective, but it doesn’t mean they’re more likely to snap or growl compared to other dogs. It depends on how they’re treated and trained.

The only time you’ll see a Yakutian laika being aggressive is when they perceive something to be a threat. This could be a stranger, another animal, or anything else that might seem like a danger to the dog.

To make sure your laika is friendly and well-behaved, it’s important to teach them good behavior when they’re still young. Being kind to them, showing them the right way to act, and giving them love helps them grow up to be happy and safe dogs.

Do Yakutian Laikas Bark?

Yakutian laikas are vocal dogs, and their barks can be quite loud. They might not be the best choice for small apartments or neighborhoods with rules about noise. Their loud barking can bother neighbors, so it’s something to think about when deciding on a dog.

If you’re in a place where noise rules are strict, you might want to consider a dog breed that’s known for being quieter. If you really like Yakutian laikas, just be aware that their loud barks might need some extra attention and training to keep things peaceful.

Are Yakutian Laikas Affectionate?

Yakutian laikas really love their families and will take every chance they can get to be affectionate, but they’re not usually small enough to be lap dogs. They’ll definitely enjoy being close to you and cuddling or being pet though, so you’ll get plenty of opportunities to be close with them.

When it comes to meeting new people, Yakutian laikas might be a bit shy or careful at first. It might take them some time to feel comfortable around strangers. To help them be friendlier, it’s good to let them meet different people in a positive way.

Are Yakutian Laikas Intelligent?

Yakutian laikas are generally known for their intelligence, curiosity, and alertness. These dogs are quick learners and can adapt to different situations, thanks to their sharp minds. Their intelligence is part of what made them valuable in their traditional roles as working dogs in the challenging conditions of Yakutia, where they regularly had to navigate and problem-solve.

Their curiosity is pretty clear in their exploration of their surroundings. They tend to be interested in new sights and smells, which makes them a very inquisitive breed. This trait can also define how good they are at various tasks and activities.

Plus, their alertness is a key aspect when it comes to being attentive and responsive to changes in their environment, making them well-suited for roles that require a keen awareness of their surroundings.

Are Yakutian Laikas Energetic?

The Yakutian laika is full of energy. They’re used to working hard, so they need a good amount of exercise every day. Taking them for walks is important, but they also love more active play like running around and playing games.

How much exercise they need can depend on things like how old they are and how much energy they have. As a general idea, giving them about 30 to 60 minutes of good play or exercise each day keeps them happy.

It’s not just about physical activity – these dogs also need things that make them think, like playing with toys that challenge their brains or teaching them new tricks.

Taking care of their energy and keeping them entertained helps make sure they’re healthy and content. As a potential parent for a Yakutian laika, being ready for an active and playful companion is important to keep them thriving.

Are Yakutian Laikas Easy to Train?

These dogs are super smart, which makes them great at learning things. When you teach them stuff, they catch on quickly, and they also really like getting treats or praise as rewards for doing so! Their clever minds mean they’re not just good at basic commands – they can learn more complex tricks too.

Since they’re so bright, Yakutian laikas do well in agility training. These dogs are not only quick on their feet but also good at figuring out how to tackle challenges, keeping them active and using their brains at the same time.

Plus, their history as hardworking dogs in tough conditions has made them good problem solvers, so training them is interesting and incredibly easy.

Are Yakutian Laikas Good Watchdogs?

Yakutian laikas show a keen sense of alertness and vigilance, readily noticing when something is different or unusual. Since they were used to guard and protect in their past jobs, they’re naturally protective of their families and where they live. This makes them brave and ready to stand up against anything they think might be a threat.

Even though they’re protective, how they react can depend on things like training and how they get along with people.

Are Yakutian Laikas Good Service Dogs?

Yakutian laikas can be good at helping people in different ways since they’re smart and can learn things quickly. Their adaptability and loyalty make them good companions for people who need extra support.

As emotional support animals, these dogs can bring comfort and friendship to people who may feel a bit down. Their loving nature and faithfulness can be really helpful. However, it’s important to know that each dog is different, and even though they’re naturally affectionate, not all Yakutian laikas may be suited for these roles.

For therapy dog jobs, Yakutian laikas’ friendly attitude and ability to adapt can be a positive thing. Training and making sure they’re comfortable in different situations are key for them to be good at this. Keep in mind that it’s important to look at each dog individually to see if they’re a good fit for service, emotional support, or therapy roles.

How to Care for a Yakutian Laika?

There are various things you have to keep in mind to ensure your Yakutian laika receives proper care. Here are some of those things:

Exercise: Yakutian laikas are high-energy dogs, so they need regular exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and activities like running or hiking are important to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Training: Early and consistent training is crucial. They are intelligent dogs and respond well to positive reinforcement. Teaching basic commands and socializing them with different people and environments is important for their good behavior.

Grooming: Their thick double coat requires regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons. This helps maintain the coat’s health and reduces shedding around the house. Bathing should be done as needed.

Nutrition: Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their health. Consult with a vet to determine the best food and feeding schedule for your Yakutian laika, considering factors like age, size, and activity level.

Health Checkups: Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor their overall health and address any potential issues early on. Vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care should be part of their healthcare routine.

Do You Need to Groom a Yakutian Laika?

Yakutian laikas have a double coat, so grooming isn’t the easiest thing in the world but it’s also not excessive by any means:

1. Brushing:

• Use a brush to get rid of loose fur and a comb to untangle their hair.
• Pay attention to spots where hair might get tangled.
• Check for any tangles using the comb.

2. Bathing:

• Bathe them with dog shampoo when they’re dirty.
• Make sure to rinse off all the soap.

3. Nail Trimming:

• Use dog nail clippers to trim their nails. Be careful not to cut too close.
• If you’re not sure, ask a vet or a professional.

4. Ear Cleaning:

• Gently clean their ears using a dog ear cleaning solution and cotton balls.

Do Yakutian Laikas Shed?

Yakutian laikas shed a lot, especially in spring and fall since their fur comes out more during these times. Regular brushing, using a special brush, helps control shedding by removing loose hair. However, you also need to know that they’re not hypoallergenic, meaning they can trigger allergies because of the fur and tiny bits of skin they shed.

What Health Problems Do Yakutian Laikas Have?

These are the most common health problems these dogs tend to suffer from:

1. Hip Dysplasia:

• What It Is: Sometimes their hip joints don’t fit well, causing pain.
• Prevention: Keep them at a healthy weight, give them regular exercise, and feed them a balanced diet.

2. Elbow Dysplasia:

• What It Is: Similar to hip dysplasia but affects the elbow joint.
• Prevention: Keep them at a healthy weight, provide moderate exercise, and give them good food.

3. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus):

• What It Is: This can cause their stomach to fill with gas and twist, which can be really serious.
• Prevention: Feed them smaller meals more often, avoid hard play right after eating, and use a raised bowl for food.

4. Eye Anomalies:

• What It Is: Different eye problems like cataracts.
• Prevention: Regular eye checkups with the vet are important.

How Long Do Yakutian Laikas Live?

Yakutian laikas have a lifespan of 10-12 years.

What Should a Yakutian Laika Eat?

Give them two meals a day to avoid stomach issues, and for an adult, about 2 to 3 cups of good dog food should do the trick. Choose food with real meat, not too much filler stuff, and match it to their age (puppy, adult, or senior). Don’t forget, always have fresh water for them to drink!

Is a Yakutian Laika the Right Dog for Me?

The Yakutian laika is great for people who love being active and spending time outdoors. If you enjoy taking walks, running, or hiking, and you’re ready to give a lot of love and training, this dog might be a good match.

They are protective and loyal, making them good companions, especially if you’re into having a watchful buddy. However, keep in mind, they shed a lot, so brushing their fur regularly is important. If you have older kids who know how to be kind to dogs, the Yakutian laika can be a good family pet, too!