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Karelo-Finnish Laika |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Russia | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| The Karelo-Finnish Laika was developed as a hunting dog in the Karelia region of Russia. They are an attractive dog with thick, rich fur that is a red color. Dedicated to their owners, they are affectionate and loyal. But they tend to be wary of strangers and can bark when they arrive, as well as being very aloof and protective of their family. Sensitive by nature, they respond best to praise, patience and kindness. If punished, this dog can hold a grudge and be stubborn and resentful when handled. Although they normally get on well with other dogs in the family, they can be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs that invade their territory. Being born and bred hunters, they tend to treat small domestic animals as prey and will often pursue them. But their loving nature and attractive appearance make them a beloved member of the family who will form good relationships with children and adults alike. While this dog matures quickly, it never loses its mischievous, lively nature and will be a great starter for any game, walk or challenge you can imagine. |
History of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| Russia's smallest Laika is the Karelo-Finnish Laika. Red-haired Spitz dogs were bred to be more or less pure until 1930, although the Second World War saw many of these dogs disappear and the breed endangered. Harsh conditions, as well as famine, meant that many dogs were eaten for survival and the breed was almost decimated. In Petrozavodsk, only 24 registered dogs remained, most of which were subsequently carried off by rabies. In 1953, Russian cynologists imported two male and one female Finnish Spitz from Finland and developed the breed by crossing them with the last red Spitz found in South Karelia, the Olonets Laika and the Karelian Laika. By 1970, the number of Karelo-Finnish Laika had risen to around 200 dogs in Moscow alone. Other breeders were known to use Finnish Spitzes imported from Finland. The advantage of the Karelo-Finnish Laika is that they are smaller and therefore easier to transport on hunting trips. This also meant that the smaller dog could live with the family and become a companion and watchdog. In recent years, the Karelo-Finnish Laika has gained in popularity due to its affectionate and friendly nature. But they need careful, patient handling, as they are sensitive to their master's mood and can become sulky and resentful if mistreated. They are excellent hunting dogs for grouse, squirrels and other small game. They have the heart and willingness to try other game, although their size limits them to what they can handle. |
Appearance of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| The male Karelo-Finnish Laika has a squarer body shape than the female, who has a more slender appearance. Their face is almost wolf-like, with a very pointed muzzle, round black eyes and pointed ears. They look alert at all times and lack nothing. Beneath their dense double coat, they have deep, flat chests, strong muscular necks and short, straight legs that ensure speed, and their round, padded paws can transform them as quickly as a blow. Their tails are attached and carried high, often curled over their backs. With their straight backs and tucked-up bellies, they have the body of an athlete. Although this attractive dog is the smallest of the Russian Laikas, they make up for this with their energy and exuberance. Their dense double coat consists of an outer layer of stiff, hard hair, while the undercoat is shorter, softer and denser. Acceptable colors are red or a variation of this color with white patches on the chest and tip of the tail, and a white stripe on the forehead in some dogs. |
Temperament of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| Affectionate, friendly and lovable temperament are words that describe the Karelo-Finnish Laika. However, they can also be sensitive to tone and resentment towards punishment, with some dogs holding a grudge against their owners for mistreatment that forever damages their relationship. Kindness and patience should be practiced with this dog, or any dog for that matter, to get the best out of them. They make excellent pets and have the energy and enthusiasm to play for hours with their children. With the other dogs in the house, they're fine, although a foreign dog invading their territory will bring out aggressive behavior. Away from home, they mix well with foreign dogs. Because of their instinct to hunt small animals, some pets will be considered prey, so it's important to take precautions when raising rabbits, guinea pigs and other small creatures. This puppy is intelligent and eager to learn, but training requires patience and kindness. Expect to repeat lessons frequently until they understand and get it. Make training fun or they'll lose interest and concentration. Several short, fun sessions are better than one long, tedious lesson. The Karelo-Finnish Laika has almost puppy-like enthusiasm, even when they're mature. They have high energy levels and will bark to let you know who has entered the property. Alert, lively and fun, this dog makes an interesting companion. |
Needs and activities of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| The Karelo-Finnish Laika is a dog with a ton of energy. So they need a decent daily walk every day to keep them happy. They're willing to please, but quite sensitive by nature, so be patient and ready to follow the steps until your dog gets it. Keep the training interesting with lots of praise and a little treat here and there for a job well done. The Karelo-Finnish Laika has an almost puppy-like exuberance and loves to play. They form close bonds with children and will play their games, provoking lots of laughter when they show up and bond. They need a well-secured yard to prevent them from chasing small prey-like animals or protecting their patch from other dogs. When they're tired, they like to be close to their family and enjoy human company. |
Maintenance of the Karelo-Finnish Laika |
| The dense, dense coat of this canine requires brushing twice a week to keep the coat in perfect condition. If your dog has been out hunting, a thorough brushing when he returns will help rid him of any dirt or debris picked up on your travels. The Karelo-Finnish Laika only needs a bath when needed, allowing the natural oils to protect the dog when outside in cold weather. The undercoat will be shed every year, but dogs living in warmer climates tend to shed all year round. Regular brushing will reduce the amount of shedding floating around your home. The Karelo-Finnish Laika is a very healthy dog, requiring only extra care for its ears to prevent infection, weekly teeth brushing and nail trimming if necessary. |
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