Siberian Husky West Siberian Laika Dog Breed

The Siberian Husky-West Siberian Laika mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group--but since both parent breeds are Spitz types, these hybrids could be considered part of the Spitz family as well. Neither does any info exist about the Husky-Laika mix's specific origin; while a Husky mixed with Laika has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. These energetic, loyal, intelligent dogs will have very strong work ethics, so they're best suited in working, task-oriented capacities, especially for owners living in colder climates.

A few facts about Siberian Husky-West Siberian Laikas: they're medium-sized, averaging 22 inches at the shoulders in height and 50 pounds in weight; they have medium-length, thick, double-layered coats that shed seasonally; and they're highly energetic and will need a lot of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Husky-Laika mix:

Important Siberian Husky-West Siberian Laika information: these hybrids are the offspring of two Spitz breeds that are very similar in many ways, so a Husky-Laika mix won't vary much in appearance or temperament. Husky-West Siberian Laika dogs are typically 20-24 inches at the shoulders in height and 40-60 pounds in weight; their thick, double-layered coats come in standard "wolf colors"--black, gray, brown, agouti and sometimes red--and the coats often have white markings.

These dogs also have an instinctive "pack mentality," which means several things: they'll be happier living with other dogs (especially ones of a similar breed); they'll need frequent companionship with their human "pack," and should be allowed to live inside with them; and the introduction of a new "pack member"--whether human or animal--may cause some upset to the dog's comfort level.

That said, the Husky-Laika mix can be a playful, loyal household pet. They'll do best living in homes with large, securely fenced yards (they're excellent escape artists!) that give them plenty of room to run and explore. Husky-Laika mixes will also need lots of outdoor exercise on a daily basis; without it they're sure to become frustrated and highly destructive.

Hard-working, intelligent, loyal, protective, and often stubborn, the Siberian Husky-West Siberian Laika personality is one of activity and resourcefulness. These hybrids will be very friendly and affectionate with their human "pack"--but they can also be independent and even pushy, so they're best for experienced owners willing to play the role of the "alpha" in the dogs' lives. That said, Husky-Laika mixes usually get along well with kids and other pets; in fact, owners say, it's good for these dogs to grow up alongside any children or household pets, so they learn to be accustomed to one another. It's also important to note the Husky-Laika's need for companionship; these hybrids are known to be terribly destructive if left alone inside, even for a short time.

In regards to training: Husky-Laika mixes are smart, and can respond well to it--but their potential for stubbornness means they might need some repetitions when learning commands, tricks, and tasks. As with any dog, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And the Husky-Laika mix will be a good watchdog, especially if it inherits the Laika's instinct for protectiveness. They'll usually bark and and investigate unknown sights or sounds, and odds are they can neutralize potential threats like intruders as well.

A Husky-Laika mix, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids can suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including hip or elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and various eye problems like cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for a Husky-Laika mix is 12-14 years.