Also known simply as the WSL, the West Siberian Laika is an intelligent and energetic breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the West Siberian Laika can be traced back to 19th century Siberia. Enthusiasts believe that the breed dates back as far as the 16th century through vague art works of the era, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the West Siberian Laika has been most commonly used for hunting and tracking game such as rabbit, raccoon, bear, and wild cats, and as a watch and guard dog, proving its superior abilities to work endlessly in the harshest of terrain and climate while providing both protection and companionship.
Today, while the West Siberian Laika has attained a regional popularity as a hunting, guardian, and companion dog, the breed remains rather rare outside of its native Siberia.
Personality Traits
Best known for its loyal and protective nature, the West Siberian Laika is willing to do anything necessary in order to protect its owner and property. These dogs thrive on strong and dependable relationships with humans, and often look to their owner for guidance and assurance. This breed is very intelligent, yet stubborn, independent, and overly confident at times, creating difficulty in training. As a pet, the West Siberian Laika is loyal, loving, and affectionate. The West Siberian Laika is not suited for full-time indoor or apartment living, as it enjoys spending time outdoors, taking long and leisurely walks, and having plenty of room to roam, run, and play.
Train-ability
Due to its stubborn, independent, and overly confident attitude, the West Siberian Laika can prove somewhat challenging to train. These dogs are known for growing bored with repetitive exercises and tasks and can be especially difficult to housebreak.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the West Siberian Laika. This breed requires an experienced, confident, and patient handler with a stern and serious approach to repetitive exercises and tasks.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a West Siberian Laika, such as its surprisingly no hassle, low maintenance coat. When properly socialized from a young age, these dogs get along well with children and other pets, known for its sweet and gentle approach to small children and its ability to make friends quickly with other animals due to its social nature. This breed is alert, protective, and territorial, making incredible watch and guard dogs by announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The West Siberian Laika is loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent hunting and guard dog, family pet, and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a West Siberian Laika. These active and athletic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play outdoors. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A West Siberian Laika not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, digging, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The West Siberian Laika has a strong instinct to hunt and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these dogs are quite quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The West Siberian Laika must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
As previously mentioned, the West Siberian Laika remains rather rare outside of its native Siberia and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the West Siberian Laika is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, frequent muscle strain, liver disease, distichiasis – ingrown eye lashes, cherry eye, cryptorchidism – failure of one or both of the testicles to fully descend, sensitivity to heat, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a West Siberian Laika? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.heydogs.com/w/west-siberian-laika.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/west_siberian_laika
