Other Names: Yakut Laika, Yakustkaya Laika, Kolyma-Indigirka Laika, Laïka de Iakoutie, Chien de Traîneau de Yakutie, Laika de Yakutia, Kolyma Husky.
The Yakutian Laika is a working dog breed that originated in the Arctic seashore of the Sakha (Yakutia) Republic. The major habitat is estuaries of Kolyma, Indigirka, Yana and Lena. In terms of functionality, Yakutian Laikas might serve as a reindeer herder’s dog (olenegonka), hunter’s dog, and a sledge dog. In September 2019, the FCI officially accepted the breed.
History
Yakutian Laikas were developed in ancient times by native Yakuts involved with hunting mammals and birds; the dogs were indispensable assistants. They proved to be a valuable asset and became companions to the Yakuts. In the Sakha language, this breed is known as “Sakha yta” meaning “Yakut dog”.
This is a versatile dog with an excellent sense of smell, hearing and vision, strong hunting drive, endurance; they are aggressive to predators and soft and gentle to humans. They are multi-purpose, have got an excellent sense of smell, absolute pitch and good eyesight. Yakutian Laikas are not demanding to conditions of life and easily endure the hostile climate of northern Siberia. In harsh Siberian conditions, they reveal their stamina; they tend to work in small groups and can work through the whole day, from dawn to sunset. The popularity of dog sledging appeared with the arrival of Russian traders to the Arctic.
With the increased demand for white polar foxes in the 17th century, the Arctic exploration received its spike. Furs and mammoth tusks trade became local nations’ main income. Origin and subsequent formation of the breed are still not quite known, but because of the hard to access country and extreme natural conditions, Yakutian Laikas have lived as primitive aboriginal breeds; they were rarely confined and mated freely. Naturally, local type dogs could be preserved only under conditions of complete isolation from dogs of other breeds. First scientific descriptions of dogs of Yakutia were published in the late 18th century when first geographic studies of the north were conducted. Prince Shirinsky-Shikhmatov wrote in his monograph about Laikas: “Researchers of the north, of course, could not overlook northern dog; they could not disagree with the hard fact that presence of this dog makes the life of northern people possible.
Yakutian Laika is an ancient dog breed that originated in the Yakutia region of Russia. This breed has been used as a hunting and sled dog for centuries by the indigenous people of Yakutia, who have relied on them for transportation and hunting in harsh and remote environments.
History and Origin: The Yakutian Laika is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with a history that dates back over 800 years. The breed is believed to have originated from the crossing of native Yakutian dogs with various Arctic breeds brought to the region by traders and travelers.
Adaptability: The Yakutian Laika is a highly adaptable breed that has evolved to thrive in extreme weather conditions. These dogs are known for their thick fur coats, which protect them from the cold, and their webbed paws, which help them navigate through snow and ice.
Intelligence: Yakutian Laikas are highly intelligent dogs that have been bred for centuries for their hunting and sledding abilities. They are trainable and excel in activities such as agility, obedience, and search and rescue.
Loyalty: Yakutian Laikas are loyal and protective of their families. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their affectionate and playful nature.
Physical Characteristics: Yakutian Laikas are medium-sized dogs with a muscular build and a thick, double coat that can come in a range of colors, including black, white, gray, and brown. They have pointed ears, a curled tail, and a wedge-shaped head.
Health: Yakutian Laikas are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years. However, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. It is important to work with a reputable breeder who performs health screenings on their breeding stock.
Preservation Efforts: The Yakutian Laika is considered a rare breed and efforts are being made to preserve their genetic diversity and protect their unique characteristics. Breed clubs and organizations have been established in Russia and other countries to promote the breed and educate people about their history and importance.