A balanced, confident hunting dog with a strong nose and a real passion for work. It is loving and loyal at home, watchful with strangers, and quick to learn.123
how to spot oneWest Siberian Laika coat and colours
double coat, harsh and straight
A lean, wolf-like spitz with a hard, straight outer coat over thick soft underwool. The hair lengthens into a ruff around the neck and cheeks, and tufts grow between the toes for snow and rough ground.123
Coloursgreyredfawnwhitesalt and pepperblackparti-colour12
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a West Siberian Laika. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
by countryIs the West Siberian Laika legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the West Siberian Laika in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksWest Siberian Laika exercise needs
High. It needs plenty of exercise and something to think about, such as hunting, long hikes or scent work; it does not thrive shut away in a kennel.3
who they like aroundWest Siberian Laika with people and other pets
Forms a close bond with its owner and family and likes to be part of daily life.32
where it all beganWest Siberian Laika history
The breed grew out of the hunting dogs kept by Khanty and Mansi people in the Urals and western Siberia. Russian enthusiasts began standardising Laika types in the 1930s and 1940s, and a standard for this breed followed in 1952. It is now the most widespread hunting breed in Russia.13
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
It finds game and then barks to hold it in place until the hunter arrives.2
2
In Karuizawa, Japan, trained Laikas helped cut bear incidents from 255 in 2006 to four in 2017.3
3
It is the most common Laika breed and the most widespread hunting breed in Russia.1
4
Females usually come into season only once a year, like many primitive breeds.3
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name comes from the West Siberian region of Russia, and it was developed from the Khanty (Ostyak) and Mansi (Vogul) hunting dogs of the Ural and Siberian forests.4
Dawn breaks over the pines, and I am already at the door, my nose twitching with purpose. My human and I set off into the forest; I lead the way, sniffing every root and stone. A squirrel chatters from a high branch, I mark it, but my job is to find the trail. Hours pass in a rhythm of paw and breath. We stop at a stream; I lap the cold water, then sit close, my head resting on a knee. Back home, I patrol the garden once, then curl on the rug, watchful even in sleep. The day was good.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 306, Group 5 Spitz and primitive types, Section 2 Nordic hunting dogs; standard dated 13.10.2010.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my West Siberian Laika, and at what times?
Feed adult West Siberian Laikas at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule helps their digestion, but exact times can fit your routine. Always follow the food label and check with your vet for portion sizes.5
What should a West Siberian Laika eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Never give raw meat, bones, or dairy, and consult your vet for any concerns.6
How often should I bathe a West Siberian Laika?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 70 days, roughly every 2-3 months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect its double coat.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a West Siberian Laika need brushing?
Brush every 3 days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. This keeps the thick double coat healthy and reduces loose hair around the home.123Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a West Siberian Laika's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a West Siberian Laika need?
This energetic breed needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, such as long hikes, hunting, or scent work. Daily walks and play are essential to keep it happy and healthy.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a West Siberian Laika's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily or at least 2-3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks, cleaning gently with a vet-approved solution and never pushing anything into the ear canal.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a West Siberian Laika live?
Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet for breed-specific expectations. With good care, many dogs live 12-15 years, but no exact figure is available for this breed.
Is a West Siberian Laika good with children and other pets?
It is loving and loyal with its family, but may be watchful with strangers. Early socialisation helps it get along with children and other pets, though individual temperaments vary. Consult a good breeder for advice.123
Can a West Siberian Laika be left alone?
This breed forms a close bond with its family and prefers to be part of daily life. It does not thrive when left alone for long periods, as it needs companionship and activity.32
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
East Siberian Laika
Russo-European Laika
Finnish Spitz
Norwegian Elkhound