Overview
The East Siberian Laika is the largest of the Russian laikas, a hunting spitz from the forests east of Lake Baikal. It was bred to find game on its own, hold it with its voice until the hunter arrives, and sleep outside in deep snow. Very few are in the UK and a walker is unlikely to meet one without knowing in advance.
This is a primitive hunting type first and a pet second. Loyal to its owner, often indifferent to anyone else, and driven by a nose and eyes that catch everything.
Exercise and walking needs
Two hours or more a day is realistic. Laikas were built for all-day ranging and short walks leave them restless and loud.
Long hikes on a line, pulling activities if the owner has introduced them, and time in a large secure field cover most of it. Treat heat as a limit from late spring.
On the walk
- Recall: Assume none. A Laika that scents deer will go, and may bark at a tree for an hour. A long line attached to a harness is the sensible default.
- Barking: This breed hunts with its voice. Expect barking at squirrels, birds and cats, and plan routes away from close neighbours.
- Other dogs: Some are fine, many are aloof, and a few are sharp with pushy or same-sex dogs. One-to-one introductions and no free play with strangers.
- Terrain: Rough ground, mud and cold are what the breed enjoys. A tarmac loop bores it in minutes.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk early in warm months; a thick double coat means overheating comes fast.
- Carry a spare clip or carabiner; a snapped line in the woods is a long day.
- Reinforce every return with food while the dog is young enough to care.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog ever gone out of sight and how long did it take to come back?
- Is it kept with other dogs or does it live alone, and how does it treat dogs on walks?
- Does the owner want you to allow barking at wildlife or to redirect it?