West Siberian Laika Breed Profile

Head: Somewhat long mesaticephalic skull type, moderate in size, forming an elongated wedge-shape. The head is fairly lean and shaped like an equilateral triangle when viewed from above. The topskull is moderately broad, yet more elongated than broad. In profile, it is slightly arched, from the front, it appears flat. The sagittal crests and occiput are well pronounced, with the occiput being rounded. The superciliary arches are only slightly developed and in proportion to the rest of the body. The head is clean-cut and without excess skin or wrinkle.

Eyes: Moderate in size, oval to almond in shape, obliquely set, and brown to dark brown in color. The eye rims are well fitted and well pigmented. The eyes are never bulging. There should be sufficient bone in the surrounding orbital sockets to protect the eyes. Any signs of entropion or ectropion are incorrect for this breed.

Ears: Medium in size, set fairly high on the skull, and set on well above the level of the eyes. They are firmly erect. The ears are never long, overly large, or broken.

Muzzle: The muzzle is full, deep, and broad. The plane, or bridge of the muzzle, is straight and level. It tapers slightly from the broad base toward the nose, forming a wedge-shape, and is slightly pointed. Upper and lower jaws are well developed, approximately equal in length, and have good bone substance, never appearing snipy or weak.

Nose: The nose is well pigmented and black, or with a brown cast in white dogs. The nostrils are well opened.

Neck: Moderately long length to allow for good head carriage and powerfully muscled with a slight arch. The neck tapers smoothly from the deeper and broader body toward the head. The neck is clean-cut and without excess skin, throatiness, or dewlap.

Chest: Deep and broad, but never wider than deep. The brisket extends to the point of the elbows. The forechest is well developed without being excessively pronounced.

Body: Solid, athletic, powerful, and of good substance. The body is never racy or refined or heavy and cloddy. Width at forequarters is approximately equal to the width at the hindquarters.

Feet: Oval to round and compact, with well-arched toes and tough pads.

Tail: Set neither high nor low on the croup but as a natural extension of the topline. It is thick at the base and tapering toward the tip. The tail is carried in accordance with the dog’s mood and energy level, usually in a tight curl carried over the back or croup, but never tucked. In repose, it appears moderately long, with the tip of the last vertebrae extending to the hock joints when held down.

Movement: Powerful, smooth, flowing gait with graceful movements. Movement is energetic, effortless, and efficient. The characteristics of healthy structure are evident: when moving away, the forelegs and rear pasterns should remain parallel to one another. When viewing movement from the front, the forelegs should remain parallel, with elbows and paws moving neither in nor out. From the rear, the back pads should be visible when the rear legs are extended. As speed increases, the forelimbs and hindlimbs will converge to the centerline of gravity. From the side, the topline should remain firm and level. Good reach of movement in the front allows the forepaw to extend out in a line with the nose. The width between the forefeet when extended should be approximately equal to the width between the hindfeet when extended, indicating balance, good reach, and good drive. Dogs that exhibit any sign of breathing or locomotive difficulty shall be disqualified from the show ring.

Temperament: The Laika is truly a hunting dog with a strong desire to track and apprehend game. When allowed to work out his natural talents, instincts, and drives, he is a devoted companion. However, experienced Laika handlers understand that these dogs are intelligent, independent thinkers. They are known to be aloof with strangers and can become aggressive towards other dogs, especially of the same sex. For this reason, Laikas are recommended for experienced working homes that will allow them to explore and enjoy their natural instincts. Any unprovoked aggressive or fearful behavior toward people is incorrect for this breed.