The West Siberian Laika is also known as Zapadno-Sibirskaia Laika or WSL. It is a large size dog which was developed by indigenous Siberian people as a hunter of small and large game. The original Laikas came to almost extinction during Soviet Communism. In 1920s, efforts to save the breed were started and two types of dogs: the Mansi Laikas, which had light bones and a narrow elongated head; and the so called Hanti Laikas with a powerfully built body and a shorter head, lay the foundations for the new breed.
This large size dog, that stands between 21-24 inches, comes with triangular shaped head, high set, pricked ears and broad, strong body with pronounced withers and well developed chest. The tail is curled over the back. Its thick double coat comes with a coarse outer coat and dense undercoat. Accepted colours are white, black salt-and-pepper, red and gray shades.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI.
