Russia’s Yakutian Laika is a giant spitz breed with pointed ears, an athletic physique, a double coat that is thick and long, and a tail that rolls up over its back. Since ancient times, Russia has valued this unusual breed as a sled dog, hunting dog, and all-around family member.
The distinctive wolf-like features of Spitz dogs, often known as Northern breeds, include a wedge-shaped skull and triangular erect ears. Numerous spitz breeds were developed to operate alongside people in chilly environments. Yakutian Laikas have always been regarded more as pets than as working dogs, and as a result, they have developed a very warm personality toward people. Your Yakutian Laika can grow to be a devoted and lovable family member with the right daily exercise and training care.
Care as a Pet/ In Captivity
When it comes to exercise requirements, the Yakutian Laika is comparable to other working breeds, therefore owners should be ready for a high-energy dog that needs lots of movement each day. Although this dog’s intellect helps it overcome obstinate behaviors when treated appropriately, training can initially be challenging. Compared to certain other long-haired breeds, the Yakutian Laika is simpler to groom, although it still sheds excessively twice a year.
Exercise
Yakutian Laikas have a great deal of energy, endurance, and drive, just like the majority of dogs raised to pull sleds. They require a lot of daily physical activity and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and restlessness, which can lead to destructive actions. A good amount of activity to start with is at least an hour of exercise each day in the form of lengthy walks, running, trekking, and fetching a Frisbee or ball. For the duration of their puppy and young adult years, your Yakutian Laika probably needs extra exercise to maintain good manners at home. If you live in a region where it snows, Laikas are readily trained to pull sleds because they are excellent at it and enjoy it.
Grooming
The Yakutian Laika’s thick coat requires little maintenance. Due to its double coat’s ability to repel dirt, this dog always feels and looks clean. There is no pruning necessary, and as-needed baths are sufficing.
The breed sheds occasionally, but twice a year it “blows coat,” losing the majority of its undercoat. Owners will need to take extra precautions during these severe shearing seasons to prevent shedding and remove extra fur. Brushing a couple times each week is usually sufficient outside of these seasons.
Nutrition and Diet
Some Yakutian Laikas, particularly those who are quite energetic, would need to eat a calorie-dense, high-quality meal to maintain their level of activity. Others might be less active and necessitate a lower-calorie diet to prevent excessive weight gain or canine obesity.
To help prevent joint disorders like dysplasia and arthritis as well as other health issues like diabetes, keep an eye on your dog’s weight. It is preferable to feed Yakutian Laikas at least two smaller servings per day rather than one huge meal because this breed is prone to bloat. Consult your vet to come up with a balanced feeding plan depending on the age, weight, and degree of activity of your particular dog.
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