Russo-European Laika
The Russo-European Laika is closely related to the Karelian Bear Dog in appearance and origin — a black-and-white hunting spitz from the forest zone of northwestern Russia and adjacent Finland.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Russia
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
20–28 kg (44–62 lbs)
Height
52–58 cm (20–23 in)
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality food for an active working hunting breed.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Russo-European Laika is closely related to the Karelian Bear Dog in appearance and origin — a black-and-white hunting spitz from the forest zone of northwestern Russia and adjacent Finland. It was standardised from the indigenous hunting dogs of the Komi, Veps, and Karelian peoples. Like the other Laikas, it hunts by locating and baying quarry — used for squirrel, sable, birds, bear, and elk. The REL is slightly smaller and more compact than the East and West Siberian Laikas, with a stockier build better suited to the dense boreal forest terrain of its homeland.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A medium-sized, compact spitz with a very dense black-and-white coat — closely resembling the Karelian Bear Dog in pattern but with a slightly different head shape and build. Erect ears, curled tail.
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
High
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Bold, tenacious, and loyal — a determined hunting dog for the experienced hunter. Independent in the field.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •Experienced hunters. 2+ hours vigorous exercise daily. Not suitable for urban environments.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Generally healthy working breed. Hip dysplasia. Robust.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
The Russo-European Laika is often confused with the Karelian Bear Dog due to their nearly identical black-and-white colouring and similar working role — the two breeds developed independently from the same ancient hunting spitz stock on either side of the Russia-Finland border.
