West Siberian Laika vs Tornjak - Breed Comparison

West Siberian Laika vs Tornjak - Breed ComparisonWest Siberian Laika is originated from Russia but Tornjak is originated from Croatia. West Siberian Laika may grow 11 cm / 4 inches shorter than Tornjak. West Siberian Laika may weigh 27 kg / 59 pounds lesser than Tornjak. Both West Siberian Laika and Tornjak has almost same life span. West Siberian Laika may have more litter size than Tornjak. West Siberian Laika requires Low maintenance. But Tornjak requires Moderate maintenance

History

west siberian laika - historyThe West Siberian Laika come from the Khanty and Mansi tribes of West Siberia and Ural. They are a primitive breed used for hunting and come from the spitz and wolf lines. They retain many of their primitive looks and traits to this day. They were pre-historic companions to human hunters and remain so today in the northern regions of the Russia. They were never sled dogs but pure hunters throughout their journey to a domesticated breed. They hunted in the forests of the mountainous regions and were adapted to hunting in the woods. When their prey was hunted almost to extinction, the Laikas were also in danger of disappearing.

From the early days of the 1900’s through the first World War, there were several campaigns to save the WSL from extinction. A breed standard was developed around the 1930’s. Following the war the breeding programs became more uniformed and followed the standard that was in place. World War II disrupted it again, but once again it was resumed after the war.

The breed was once again threatened by industrialization and deforestation in the early 20th century, as they were replaced by newer, more popular breeds. There were thought to be dozens of aboriginal Laikas with various groups attached to different groups of indigenous hunters.

Following the second World War and the ever increasing detail of breed standards, the Laikas were divided into four pure bred groupings: the West Siberian Laika, the East Siberian Laika, the Russ-European Laika and the Karelo-Finnish Laika. All of these breeds are Laikas because they are bark pointing hunters.

They were imported to the U.S. in the early 1990’s by a Russian immigrant. Vladmir Beregovoy is credited with bringing the breed to the States. There are now about 300-400 West Siberian Laika’sin the U.S. They are a very emotional breed, very in touch with his human’s feelings, habits and intentions. He is a barker for sure who hates to be left alone. An intense breed with the need for companionship and a purpose. They will do anything to escape a pen if left alone for long periods of time.

The breed is protective of its people with other animals and some are wary of strangers. He needs an active family to match his active spirit. They will bark at all wild life including all the squirrels in your yard. So if don’t want a “barker”, don’t get a West Siberian Laika.

They are recognized by the United Kennel Club, the American Canine Association the Dog Registry of American and the Federation Cynologique Internationale

tornjak - historyKnown also as the Bosnian and Herzegovinian, the Tornjak dog hails from Croatia and Bosnia and is a large mountain sheepdog.

It is thought that this protector of livestock dog has been bred from the Tibetan Mastiff. He is an ancient breed because there are records of its existence coming as far back as the 11th century.

As a working dog, his role of guarding sheep became less and the dog’s numbers diminished. It was during the 1970s that the breed was revived.

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Working dog
Origin:
Russia
Croatia
Height Male:
56 - 61 cm
22 - 25 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Height Female:
53 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 23 kg
35 - 51 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 10
4 - 7
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
WSL, Zapadno-Sibirskaia Laika
Croatian Mountain Dog, Bosnian Shepherd Dog
Colors Available:
gray, white, white with patches
White with tan, brown or black markings, grey
Coat:
double coat
Long and thick
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Protective, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

west siberian laika puppy - descriptionThe WSL comes from the Spitz line and also directly descendent from the wolf. They look and act a lot like a wolf in many ways. They have retained much of their primitive traits. With a pointed, long muzzle, an almost square head, and square body, they have wolf colored coats of gray and red. They are mostly medium in size but some can be smaller or larger. Their head is shaped like a wedge, their eyes are typical almond shape and set deep in their head. They are brown or even darker. The muzzle is almost as long as the skull. Their lips are thin and black. The ears are straight up and pricked.

They have bodies longer than they are tall with a lot of musculature. They carry their tail high over their backs. With straight legs and forward feet, with gray, red and white coats, they still look like wild dogs.

tornjak puppy - descriptionThis is a large, strong dog, standing at between 58 and 72cm in height and weighing between 28 and 50kg. He has a long, thick coat which has always protected him from the harsh winters of the countries he comes from.

Common colors for the coat are mainly white with tan, brown, grey or black markings.

Temperament:

The Tornjak is a beautiful dog and also calm by nature, well balanced, intelligent and self- confident. His calm nature doesn’t stop him from being a good watchdog though as he is also alert and brave.

He is more than willing to please his owner and is able to be trained and socialized with ease.

He is a social dog and just loves spending time with hs human family. Therefore efforts should be made not to leave him alone for long periods of time. He forms strong bonds with them and is loving and devoted. Because of his size and energy he won’t suit life in the city on a small property but will be better suited to life in the countryside.

Characteristics

1 Children Friendliness – Yes they are ok with children but not unsupervised.

2.Special talents stamina, agility

west siberian laika dog - characteristics3.Adaptability This is not really an apartment dog though he can adapt. He needs outdoor space to run everyday. So if in an apartment find a dog park for everyday use.

4.Learning ability – Highly trainable and very smart. Independent thinker though might cause some issues.

These are quiet, brave dogs but they can be good watchdogs too.

Calm and balanced, he is capable of being alert too and makes a good watchdog.

tornjak dog - characteristicsWith their human family, they become attached and loyal, not wanting to be separated from anyone for too long. Give him the care this beautiful dog deserves and he'll make you a splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

west siberian laika puppies - health problemsHealth wise there are no genetic health issues known today. Since they were so wild, primitive and isolated there was not a lot of inbreeding to any standards. There are however some interesting health facts about the WSL.

• Females only come into estrus once a year, usually in the late winter. They are usually one to two or two and a half years old when this happens. The Russians who know them best frown on breeding them before they are at least two.

• They are subject to many of the same parasites and some diseases like any other canine. But they are not susceptable to any illness specific to their breed.

• Hunting accidents might bet he biggest health threat this breed faces at the moment.

• However with more dogs being bred for the show ring, this could all change and genetic issues could begin to pop up for them.

tornjak puppies - health problemsMost dogs face one or two health challenges in their lives, but most Tornjaks are healthy and won’t easily get sick.

They’re large dogs so they typically don’t live as long as small dogs. They can live to be between 10 and 12 years of age.

Patellar Luxation: 

This is a dislocation of the kneecap, caused by an injury or it can be present at birth. It can cause pain and a limp.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a joint condition that is more often seen in large dogs. The ill-fitting joint rubs and chafes, and osteoarthritis and more pain is the result.

You will have to speak to your vet about relieving the pain for your dog and making him more comfortable. Don’t think hip dysplasia is something only old dogs get – it can develop with young dogs – even puppies. Your veterinarian will examine your pet and suggest different medical and surgical options.

Caring The Pet

west siberian laika dogs - caringperformance, working dog food. High in protein and fat is needed to maintain their lean muscle. Don’t over feed them as they will become obese and they will be unhappy if their physical activities are restricted, even if by their own weight. Be sure you break up their day’s food amount into 3-4 smaller meals.

2.Feeding the adult – Almost everything is equally true for the adult. They need a high protein and high fat food – a high performance food. Don’t over feed and give them at least 2 meals per day.

3.Points for Good Health – as previously mentioned this is a hardy and robust breed,

4. Games and Exercises They need a lot of exercise, have a strong prey drive and are very intelligent. A dog with those traits that does not get enough exercise will drive you crazy if he is not stimulated.

Exercise:

tornjak dogs - caringThe Tornjak needs exercise every day to keep him fit and happy. He will love it when you take down his leash for his daily walk. He is a social dog and will want to be involved with all your activities. He gets on well with other dogs too.

●Grooming:

The Tornjak will require quite a bit of grooming because the hair is fairly long and it sheds. Some dog owners have the hair cut by a professional groomer. Regular brushing certainly helps to reduce lots of dog hair flying around.

The insides of his ears need to be checked for signs of redness as well as the eyes. The eyes should be checked for pus and redness. Occasional dog nail trimming will also be required.

● Vaccines:

Keep his vaccines up to date to avoid deadly canine diseases.

● Diet:

Provide your Tornjak with top quality food. If you feed him with one of the commercially manufactured foods, make sure it is one of the better brands. The inferior brands are filled with bad ingredients that can actually make a dog sick.

Try to include some home-made food which can be added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat. Avoid human foods such as chocolates, grapes, onions, peanuts and chips as these can give him stomach pain and more vet bills for you.

Stick to wholesome, simple foods such as boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. Your Tornjak will love it and it will ensure he has bright eyes ad a wagging tail. Never leave him without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Tornjak vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  2. Tornjak vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  3. Tornjak vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  4. Tornjak vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  5. Tornjak vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  6. Tornjak vs Samoyed - Breed Comparison
  7. Tornjak vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  8. Tornjak vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  9. Tornjak vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  10. Tornjak vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  11. Tornjak vs Presa Canario - Breed Comparison
  12. Tornjak vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  13. Tornjak vs Labrador Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Tornjak vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  15. Tornjak vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  16. Tornjak vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  17. Tornjak vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Tornjak vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  19. Tornjak vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  20. Tornjak vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  21. Tornjak vs Dogo Cubano - Breed Comparison
  22. Tornjak vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  23. Tornjak vs Beauceron - Breed Comparison
  24. Tornjak vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Tornjak vs Mackenzie River Husky - Breed Comparison
  26. West Siberian Laika vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  27. West Siberian Laika vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  28. West Siberian Laika vs French Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  29. West Siberian Laika vs Flat-Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. West Siberian Laika vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  31. West Siberian Laika vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  32. West Siberian Laika vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  33. West Siberian Laika vs Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever - Breed Comparison
  34. West Siberian Laika vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  35. West Siberian Laika vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  36. West Siberian Laika vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  37. West Siberian Laika vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  38. West Siberian Laika vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  39. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  40. West Siberian Laika vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  41. West Siberian Laika vs Shikoku - Breed Comparison
  42. West Siberian Laika vs Slovakian Hound - Breed Comparison
  43. West Siberian Laika vs Small Munsterlander - Breed Comparison
  44. West Siberian Laika vs Sussex Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  45. West Siberian Laika vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  46. West Siberian Laika vs Welsh Springer Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  47. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  48. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  49. Wetterhoun vs West Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  50. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs West Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds