The East Siberian Laika is a versatile hunting dog originating from different parts of Siberia. There are four varieties of the Siberian Laika; one is the Russo European Laika which descended from the hunting laikas and originated in Northern Russia. Second variety is the Western Siberian Laika which originated in the northern Urals and is developed by crossing laikas with hunting dogs. The third variety is the Eastern Siberian Laika which originated in large forests in the east. It was developed by crossing several laikas together. It is used to hunt large game and this type is also unique and famous as it was used as first living ambassador from earth to space. The fourth and last is Karelo Finnish Laika.
The East Siberian Laika is a large, strong dog with almost square built and typical Spitz type head. The dog stands between 21.5 to 25 inches with bitches being smaller. The dog has a wedge shaped head with broad skull. Long muzzle is wedge shaped with black or sometimes brown nose. Obliquely set eyes are moderate size and oval in shape. Moderately long ears are erect and triangular shape. Neck is muscular and strong. Fore and hind quarters are well angulated. Body is square or slightly longer than tall with deep, broad and muscular chest. Tail can be ring shaped or sickle. The breed has double coat with outer coat being moderate to long, coarse, dense and straight and undercoat soft and dense. It comes in different colours.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI.