Estrela Mountain Dog vs Yakutian Laika
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Estrela Mountain Dog
Foundation Stock Service
Yakutian Laika
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Estrela Mountain Dog Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Estrela Mountain Dog boasts a robust build with a thick double coat that can be either long or short. Standing up to 29 inches at the shoulder, these dogs display a proud bearing and strong muscular structure. Their distinctive features include a black mask, dark eyes, and a confident expression that reflects their guardian heritage. The breed's weatherproof coat comes in solid colors including fawn, wolf gray, or yellow, often with brindling.
Yakutian Laika Overview
Yakutian Laikas are hardy, medium-sized spitz-type dogs with distinctive wedge-shaped heads and thick double coats. Their almond-shaped eyes, erect triangular ears, and curved tail carried over the back create an alert, dignified appearance. Displaying remarkable agility and strength, these dogs combine an athletic build with elegant proportions, standing proudly with well-muscled shoulders and strong legs.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Estrela Mountain Dogs are less energetic than Yakutian Laikas, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Estrela Mountain Dogs require less grooming attention compared to Yakutian Laikas.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Estrela Mountain Dogs tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Yakutian Laikas.
- Trainability: Yakutian Laikas may be slightly easier to train due to their Yakutian Laika's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Yakutian Laikas adapt better to apartment living, while Estrela Mountain Dogs typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Estrela Mountain Dog and Yakutian Laika, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Estrela Mountain Dog | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-14 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Russia (Yakutia region) |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Estrela Mountain Dog | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 25-29 inches 62-74 cm | 21-23 inches 53-58 cm |
| Weight | 77-132 lbs 35-60 kg | 40-55 lbs 18-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Estrela Mountain Dog | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Alert, Intelligent, Brave | Affectionate, Intelligent, Active |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Estrela Mountain Dog | Yakutian Laika |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Estrela Mountain Dog Temperament
The Estrela Mountain Dog is known for being alert, intelligent, brave, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Yakutian Laika Temperament
The Yakutian Laika is characterized by being affectionate, intelligent, active, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Estrela Mountain Dog and Yakutian Laika, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Estrela Mountain Dog
Rating: 5/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Estrela Mountain Dog
Rating: 3/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 4/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Estrela Mountain Dog
Rating: 2/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Estrela Mountain Dog
Rating: 2/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Estrela Mountain Dog
Rating: 3/5
Yakutian Laika
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Estrela Mountain Dog Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Estrela Mountain Dogs require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Estrela Mountain Dogs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Yakutian Laika Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Yakutian Laikas need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Yakutian Laikas require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Estrela Mountain Dog Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Eye Problems
- Heart Issues
Yakutian Laika Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Dental Disease
- Bloat
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
Estrela Mountain Dog
Pros
- Excellent guardian instincts
- Loyal to family
- Weather-resistant coat
- Independent nature
- Good with livestock
Cons
- Requires extensive space
- Strong-willed personality
- Heavy shedding
- Not suitable for apartments
- Needs experienced owner
Yakutian Laika
Pros
- Excellent cold weather adaptability
- Versatile working abilities
- Strong protective instincts
- Good with family members
Cons
- High exercise requirements
- Strong prey drive
- Can be stubborn
- Seasonal shedding
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Estrela Mountain Dog and Yakutian Laika, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.