East Siberian Laika vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

East Siberian Laika vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonBoth Caucasian Shepherd and East Siberian Laika are originated from Russia. Caucasian Shepherd may grow 9 cm / 4 inches higher than East Siberian Laika. Caucasian Shepherd may weigh 76 kg / 168 pounds more than East Siberian Laika. Caucasian Shepherd may live 3 years less than East Siberian Laika. Both Caucasian Shepherd and East Siberian Laika has same litter size. Both Caucasian Shepherd and East Siberian Laika requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Sporting dog
undefined
Russia
Russia
Height Male:
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
55 - 66 cm
21 - 26 inches
Height Female:
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
55 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
20 - 24 kg
44 - 53 pounds
Weight Female:
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
19 - 22 kg
41 - 49 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
6 - 10
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
ESL Vostotchno-Sibirskaia Laika
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
black, ticked, red and brown of all shades, grey, with light patches (called karamis), patched, Black and tan, white, grizzle
Coat:
Long haired, dense
long and double
Shedding:
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

caucasian shepherdThis working dog is more than 2 000 years old, hailing from the Caucasus Mountains near the Georgian Republic, Russia.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed, always having been used to guard livestock in the mountains. Some believe they came from domesticated wolves, while others believe their ancestry includes Mastiffs and other breeds.

It was in the 1960s that the dog was used in Germany for patrol along the Berlin Wall. This dog is also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka and he is large and powerful, always being ready to take on anyone who threatens him or the livestock he is guarding.

His origins can be traced far back and eventually the dog found its ways to the USA where dog clubs were formed.The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest Molosser breeds, and today they are mostly appreciated for being wonderful family companions and watchdogs.

east siberian laikaThe East Siberian Laika Is a Russian dog developed for hunting in Siberia. The breed is a spitz type and good hunting large or small prey. It hunted squirrels and grouse as well as moose, mountain lions and bears. In the cold, snowy Siberia it was also a sled dog. There are four types of Russian Laikas: the West Siberian Laika, the Karelo-Finnish Laika, the East Siberian Laika and the Russo-European Laika.

Dog from the Evenki National Territory, the Lake Baikal region, the Maritime Territory, the Irkutsk Province, and the Amur River basin were the breeding groups from which the East Siberian Laika developed. In 1947 the East Siberian Laika was designated as a separate breed from the other Laikas. All 4 Laikas were registered as separate breeds at the All -Union Cynological Congress. Biologist K.G. Abramov is credited with developing the first standard for the breed.

The breed is recognized by the American Canine Association, Inc (ACA), the Dog Registry of America (DRA) as well as the FCI. They are not recognized by the UKC or the AKC. Only the government breeds the East Siberian Laika in Russia.

Description

caucasian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Caucasian Shepherd is a large, impressive looking dog standing at between 64 – 75cm in height and weighing between 45 – 70 kg. He has an almost bear-like appearance. His coat can be shortish or even fairly long, and in different colors such as white, tan, brindle, grey and cream with a black mask.

The puppies are born black and then lighten as they grow up. He has a large head with the muzzle being smaller than the skull, narrowing slightly. The nose is black and the ears are set high and are floppy with dark eyes. The tail is set high and is long.

Temperament:

The Caucasian Shepherd is an intelligent breed but he must be properly trained and socialized as he can be stubborn and want to go his own way.

He is a balanced dog and he won’t deliberately hurt whom he regards as family, but he shows distrust towards strangers. While socialization and training relax and calm a dog, the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t regarded as the best dog to have with children around. This is because he comes from a lineage of guard dogs, bred to fight and guard.

He is a dog breed that will require a firm, strong owner and if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the Caucasian can be difficult to manage and perhaps isn’t the best choice for a first-time dog owner.

east siberian laika puppy - descriptionWithin the East Siberian Laika there are several different types, but two important ones are the Evenki and Irkutsk. Of all the Laikas, the East Siberian is the most diverse in physique and in color. It is a rangy dog, heavy boned and proportionately appears square. It has triangular, erect ears and a tail that curves over his back. The shape of his head can vary within the regions and the types.

Characteristics

caucasian shepherd dog - characteristicsLoyal, strong, and brave, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog does an excellent job protecting his human family. He is a territorial dog and in the past he has always been ready to take on wolves and bear to protect his sheep. He isn't the best choice for first time dog-owners and where there are small children in the home.

He will do well to be trained and socialized as he becomes an obedient, patient, gentle, loving pet that becomes an excellent companion and protector.

east siberian laika dog - characteristicsThe East Siberian Laika is bred to hunt and hunt large prey as well as small. For this reason, he usually doesn’t get along well with other dogs or other large predators. Other wise he is a calm; well-mannered dog and he can be a very good watch dog. They are very trainable and make great companion dogs.

The East Siberian Laika is the calmest and quietest of the four Russian Laikas. They are very affectionate and loyal to their families. They love to walk, jog, hike, run or camp with their family.

Health Problems

caucasian shepherd puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there may be some health issues, even though the Caucasian Shepherd is generally a healthy dog. There are some common illnesses that every dog can get and which every responsible dog owner should be aware of -

Diarrhea:

One or two episodes of diarrhea isn’t an emergency, but ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If your dog is vomiting, he is lethargic and constantly emptying his bowels, see your vet if the diarrhea persists.

Parasites:

Parasites such as fleas and ticks and even internal parasites such as intestinal worms can drain the life from your pet. It is wise to find out about different parasites so that you can protect your dog. Find out what your vet’s treatment options are for parasites.

east siberian laika puppies - health problemsBesides injures related to hunting, the East Siberian Laika is prone to several other conditions including dysplasia and:

  1. Monorcidism
  2. Occasionally seen in puppies where they have only one testicle.
  3. Umbilica Hernia

The contents of the dog’s abdomen come through the abdominal wall at the umbilicas. They are surgically repaired.

Caring The Pet

caucasian shepherd dogs - caringThe Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat that will certainly require brushing twice a week. The coat comes in different lengths – short, medium and long. The hair is mostly long and the long tail is also feathery. The best way to groom your large, furry pet is to invest in some good grooming tools such as a good brush to keep your pet’s hair in tip-top condition.

His nails will need to be trimmed regularly, his ears will also need to be checked to avoid wax build-up and the accumulation of grime. This can lead to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week with special dog toothbrush and toothpaste.

Exercise:

The Caucasian Shepherd isn’t going to do well in a small home with tiny garden in the city. He is a big dog that will require a large yard even though he is a fairly low-energy dog. He will be suited to a family that is active, that will take him on daily walks, hikes and include some ball games.

Diet:

You will need to change your Caucasian Shepherd Dog’s food as he goes through the different phases of his life, from puppy to adulthood. Speak to your veterinarian about a commercially produced dog food is you’re unable to give him home-made food. These foods are available in breed-specific and age-specific formulas.

Reputable breeders will also help you ensure that you know how to start feeding your puppy. Caucasian Shepherds are a large breed and apart from their kibble, you’ll want to include rice, vegetables and cooked chicken from time to time in his kibble and also include raw meat occasionally.

If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder about the best diet to ensure his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Feeding

east siberian laika dogs - caringThis is an active, working dog and should be fed accordingly. Probably 1.5-2 cups of high quality dry dog food, two times a day.

Health issues

The East Siberian Laika is an ancient breed and fairly healthy though prone to dysplasia:

Hip Dysplasia

The hip socket is not formed correctly, and the bone cannot fit properly causing lameness and/or arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia

Primary lesions and cartilage surrounding the elbow join and resulting in osteopathic injuries.

Exercise and games

Again, this is a working dog. They need at least a half hour of moderate/vigorous exercise every day. A fenced in ran is a plus. You will also need to play with him to keep him from getting bored. Catch, flyball, or agility would all suit this breed well.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Caucasian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Caucasian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Caucasian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Caucasian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Caucasian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Caucasian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Caucasian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Caucasian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Caucasian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Caucasian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Caucasian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Caucasian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Caucasian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Caucasian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Caucasian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Caucasian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Caucasian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Caucasian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Caucasian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Caucasian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. East Siberian Laika vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. East Siberian Laika vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. East Siberian Laika vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. East Siberian Laika vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. East Siberian Laika vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. East Siberian Laika vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. East Siberian Laika vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. East Siberian Laika vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. East Siberian Laika vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. East Siberian Laika vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. East Siberian Laika vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. East Siberian Laika vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. East Siberian Laika vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. East Siberian Laika vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. East Siberian Laika vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. East Siberian Laika vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. East Siberian Laika vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. East Siberian Laika vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. East Siberian Laika vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. East Siberian Laika vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. East Siberian Laika vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. East Siberian Laika vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. East Siberian Laika vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. East Siberian Laika vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. East Siberian Laika vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison