The Yakutian Laika is a spitz-type breed from the Siberian region of Russia that is assigned to the working group. [1] While the breed thrived for its versatility from ancient times until the 1800s, being used to hunt, pull sleds, herd, be companions, and even deliver mail in latter times, it lost its popularity in the 1900s but is now regaining some of its former glory. [2] As one of many spitz breeds, Yakutian Laikas share much in common with other dogs. However, by understanding how they differ from other breeds, this wikiHow will help you identify a Yakutian Laika.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Checking the Structure

  1. Yakutian Laikas are medium in size. They can weigh anywhere from 40 to 55 pounds (18 to 25 kg) and have a height of 21–23 inches (53–58 cm). [3]
  2. A Yakutian Laika's head resembles a wedge in shape with a fair point and a pronounced stop. It is of decent breadth and proportionately sized, being a small amount rounded. The dog's forehead appears a bit high, and the cheeks are of good definition. [4]
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  3. The eyes of a Yakutian Laika are shaped like almonds and rather broad. They may be dark brown or blue in color, and the dog may have one brown and one blue eye. Brown eyes may also have some blue parts within them. They look straight ahead but are not set deeply. The tight and lean rims usually match the nose in color but may be discolored if the area around the eye is white. [5]
  4. Yakutian Laikas have high-set ears that start at a wide base and end in a tip to form a triangle shape, though they may be carried erect or tipped (erect with tips that hang downward). They are thick in structure and coat, being covered in hair of a short length, and they lay back when the dog runs. [6]
  5. A Yakutian Laika's muzzle is similar to a wedge in shape as it tapers to the dog's large nose tip. The nose is pigmented either brown or black and includes nostrils that are opened wide. The tight-fitting but lean and colored lips cover a scissors or even bite, though some dogs that are three years of age have a bite that is undershot. [7]
  6. The paws of a Yakutian Laika form arches while being tight. They are thickly coated between the toes and have pads that feel quite hard. In size, the back paws are a small amount larger than those in the front. [8]
  7. Being thickly coated, the tail has a fluff to it, and its tip has a small-sized suspension of hair. From its high-set position, it curves onto the back to resemble a semi-circle. [9]
  8. Yakutian Laikas are muscular, compacted, strong, a bit long-limbed, and longer than they are tall. They have a neck of decent length, oblique shoulders, a broad and somewhat deep chest, ribs that are rounded, parallel and straight legs, and a strong back and topline. Their gait is quick in speed and appears elastic, being in the form of either a gallop or trot. [10]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Viewing the Coat

  1. As double-coated dogs, Yakutian Laikas have both an outer coat and undercoat, the latter being of high density and good development. The hair has a shine to it and appears straight, while it feels both coarse and thick in texture. [11]
  2. A Yakutian Laika's coat varies in length on certain parts of the body but is on average medium. The shortest parts of the coat are on the fronts of the legs and on the head, while the coat on the backs of the legs are feathered thickly. The tail tip has a bit of suspending hair, and the neck's hair, particularly in male dogs, appears as a mane. [12]
  3. Yakutian Laikas have two varieties: white and mixed. White coats are simply solid white, while mixed coats may be any combination of two or three different colors. [13]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Considering Temperament

  1. Bred to guard, among other jobs, Yakutian Laikas excel in positions as guard or watchdogs. They are also naturally reserved around strangers because of this. [14]

    Did you know? Yakutian Laikas are known to have keen senses of smell and hearing, making them great choices for being watchdogs. [15]

  2. Overall, Yakutian Laikas tend to be fairly obedient dogs. Positively reinforced training and plenty of socialization keep them highly trainable. [16]
  3. Yakutian Laikas are working dogs, and as such, they have abundant energy. They require a good deal of space to exercise, and activities such as walking and playing can help use up their energy. [17]
  4. Sometimes used to pull sleds, Yakutian Laikas are capable of getting along well with other dogs. However, they may attempt to chase other small animals due to having a fairly high prey drive. [18]
  5. Yakutian Laikas are incredibly companionable dogs and thrive in family settings. They form strong bonds with their families and can do well with children. [19]
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      • If you'd like to know your own dog's breed, give thought to DNA testing. A DNA test will confirm if your dog is a Yakutian Laika.
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