Appearance of the Karelo-Finnish Laika
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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
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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
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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
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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. |