List of Siberian Dog Breeds

Here are some amazing things Siberia is famous for – 

We’ll talk about the last one. 

When you look at the dog breeds that originated in Siberia, most of them are working breeds that evolved over thousands of years to withstand harsh environments and subzero Siberian temperatures. They were bred to be strong as their work involved protection, pulling sledges, military operations, etc. In recent times, smaller breeds have been developed meant for companionship as our lifestyles changed to apartment-style living. 

Here are some of the most popular ones – ⁽²⁾

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky have to top the list of popularity here as they are not only famous in Siberia or Russia but the entire world. They are the perfect example of beauty with brains – add strength to it. Their history goes back 4000 years, making them one of the oldest dog breeds out there. Their ancestors worked alongside Indigenous people from the harshest lands in Siberia. Even today, they can thrive in subzero temperatures and pull loads over long distances without breaking a sweat. 

Samoyed

The always-smiling dog breed, Samoyed, is another beautiful one from Siberia. They look like they were bred to be big-cuddle bears but were actually bred to herd reindeer, pull sledges and hunt, all in the harshest temperatures in rural Russia. The big fluffy coat that is perfect for cuddling, helps them survive in temperatures such as -50 degrees Celsius. After years of hard work, they are now owned by people across the world as a companion and cuddle-buddy (the job they were always meant to do).

East Siberian Laika

The Russian version of the German Shepherd, East Siberian Laika is a strong breed from the eastern forests of Siberia. They are extremely brave, owing to their original purpose of hunting and serving the Russian army. They are highly intelligent and make great family pets (with a little bit of destructive behaviors). 

Other popular Siberian Dog Breeds include – 

What is the Largest Breed of Dog in Russia?

The award for the largest dog breed that originated from Russia goes to – The Caucasian Shepherd or the Caucasian Ovcharka. They come with a muscular build and a multi-layered fur. They may not be the largest dog breeds in the world but surely are one of the largest out there with an average height of 28-30 inches and an average weight of 100-110 lbs. ⁽¹⁾

These dogs are primarily shepherds as they were developed to be livestock guardians to sheep from predators, mainly wolves and human sheep thieves. Today, however, they serve their origin country by being the prison guards there. ⁽¹⁾

What Breed is the Russian Police Dog?

The answer is the Black Russian Terrier. BRTs as they are popularly known, were bred to serve as guard dogs and police dogs in the Soviet Union. It is believed that a whopping twenty breeds were used to develop these military dogs. They include the Airedale Terrier, the Giant Schnauzer, the Rottweiler, the Newfoundland dog, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog and many more. ⁽³⁾

What are Some Russian Dog Breeds?

Apart from the ones mentioned above, here are some more interesting dog breeds originating in Russia – 

What Breed of Dog is Balto?

The super-dog that saved thousands of lives by being a part of a dogsled team that delivered lifesaving antitoxin to a remote Alaskan town that was struck by diphtheria in 1925 was none other than the beautiful Russian breed – Siberian Husky.

The entire operation was a 674-mile relay from Nenana, Alaska, braving intense winds and wind-chill temperatures of –85 degrees Fahrenheit. Balto’s bravery has been immortalized as a statue in New York City’s Central Park. ⁽⁴⁾

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Siberian dogs are one of the strongest out there as they were bred to withstand extreme temperatures and the harshest of conditions. Having said that, even they are prone to several illnesses during their lifetimes. And on top of that the chances of getting into accidents and getting severely injured because of the extremely high levels of energy. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more. 

Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!