25 Russian Dog Breeds – The Complete Guide to All Dogs of Russia

There are very few internationally-famous dogs that come to mind when you first think about Russian dog breeds. In fact, only a small handful of Russian dogs have managed to gain international traction outside its native country isolated in the northeast.

But even so, many popular dog breeds, such as the Siberian Husky and Samoyed, all originated from the freezing trans-continental country. And despite popular belief, Russia is home to some of the coolest (no pun intended) breeds in the canine kingdom.

That said, let’s examine all 25 Russian dog breeds, their wonderful temperaments and why you should consider keeping one. After all, they can be just as affectionate as any other dog breed, while bringing a special uniqueness only found in Russian dogs.

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Native Russian Dog Breeds List

Though there are famous Russian breeds, most of these dogs are not well known outside of Russia. And in the west, they’re even less popular (with a few exceptions). Read on to learn about the temperament, what makes them special, and why they make great pets!

The most popular native Russian dog breeds include the Siberian Husky, Samoyed, Borzoi, Black Russian Terrier, Caucasian Shepherd, Central Asian Shepherd, Tsvetnaya Bolonka, Finnish Spitz, Russian Toy Terrier and the Russian Harlequin Hound.

There’s lesser known Russian dogs such as the East European Shepherd, East Siberian Laika, Moscow Watchdog, Franzuskaya, Moscow Waterdog, Russian Hound, South Russian Ovcharka, Russian Spaniel, European Laika, West Siberian Laika, Yakutian Laika, Taigan, Hortaya Borzaya, Shalaika, and Volkosob.

1. Siberian Husky

Highlights: Playful, Energetic, Lively

The Siberian Husky is without a doubt the most popular dog breed to originate in Russia. They’ve come a long way from their sleigh-pulling days, although many still work this job. In fact, Huskies may be one of the few dogs that can run 100-mile days for emergency deliveries.

These dogs don’t mess around when it comes to work. Not only do they love work, but they pretty much thrive on it! As energetic as they are, Huskies also have a playful and often mischievous side that’ll tug on the hearts of new owners and families.

They’re the perfect dog breed for owners that enjoy an active lifestyle. If given the opportunity, they will run with you all day. That said, they’ll need training for long distance running. Just make sure you’re not forcing a Husky to be your big lap dog. They’ll thank you for it!

Siberian Husky Temperament

As mentioned, Huskies are energetic dogs. And while most Huskies are sweet loving dogs and wouldn’t intentionally hurt a child, they often do by accident. Their excitement often gets the best of them and a simple nudge can send a child into tears.

In terms of working and obedience intelligence, Huskies don’t rank very high. However, they’re smarter than you think. The problem is that they’re stubborn and don’t always like to follow the rules. Training may take up a bit more time than you’d want.

Siberian Huskies are natural pack dogs, so giving them a canine friend is ideal. If not, they’ll treat your kids and family like their very own. But keep heir instincts in check, as they may chase down your cat. These dogs are not great watchdogs because simply put, they’re too friendly.

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2. Samoyed

Highlights: Loving, Calm, Adaptable

Samoyeds, affectionately nicknamed Sammies, are some of the brightest and most graceful dogs we have. And, it’s all thanks to Russia. They always look like they’re happy with a perpetual “Sammy smile” (that actually helps protect their mouths from forming icicles).

Like the Husky, Sammies are fierce and loyal workers. Keeping them locked in the house for the day is like being in a prison for these energetic dogs. Give them some work, a job or a physical activity to do, and they’ll thrive in just about any home!

It’s worth noting that they originated from the Siberian town of Oymyakon, where temperatures can reach negative 60 degrees! For this reason, the Sammy’s thick white coat (that sheds a lot!) was bred into the dogs to protect them from the harsh climate conditions of rural Russia.

Samoyed Temperament

The Samoyed is a very intelligent dog that loves to work. Because of this, plenty of mental and physical stimulation is needed to keep them mentally happy and physically healthy. Remember that they are used to all kinds of work in Siberia.

However, there is some bad to come with all the good. For example, Sammies tend to be stubborn and mischievous, which can make obedience training difficult for new owners. But as long as you establish dominance in the home and lead with consistency, you’ll be fine.

The Samoyed is all about love and affection. They need a lot of attention and in return, they’ll shower you with love. If you’re a busy person, I don’t suggest owning one. And while they are highly adaptable dogs, living in a warm region is not a great idea.

3. Borzoi

Highlights: Proud, Affectionate, Friendly

The Borzoi is a big sighthound known for its majestic gait, stunning beauty and calm temperament. For most people, they’re considered Russian dogs. However, there’s a small camp that believes they actually originated from other central Asian countries.

They’re lightning-fast dogs. And when running in full stride, a Borzoi can reach amazing speeds of up to 40 miles per hour! These dogs are so fast that “I Heart Dogs” ranks them as one of the 5 fastest breeds in the world. I can’t say that i’m surprised.

Borzois are not small dogs. A male Borzoi can stand nearly 28 inches tall and weight just over 100 lbs with their Greyhound-like build. Most Borzois will have a white flat coat with patches of brown or tan, but they can come in many colors. The coat will be silky, wavy or curly.

Borzoi Temperament

Borzois are quiet and calm dogs with a very agreeable demeanor. Owners describe them as feline-like, which may explain why they can make great friends with cats. They don’t rank high on the 100 smartest dogs list, but the Borzoi is very adaptable. They’re just stubborn at times.

On the other hand, they are very loving and aren’t afraid to show it with family. You’ll need to remember that training these dogs require patience and consistency. Given an independent nature and streaks of stubbornness, they won’t do your bidding for the sake of obeying.

Like with most sighthounds, Borzois need a lot of physical activity to keep them in check. When you’re walking these dogs, make sure to keep them on a leash. The sight of a squirrel or raccoon will send them running. And trust me, you won’t catch this dog.

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4. Black Russian Terrier

Highlights: Smart, Docile, Powerful

The Black Russian Terrier is one of the fiercest working dogs to originate out of Russia. They were bred to work and their powerful frame shows they’re highly capable of completing the toughest tasks. They’ll grow up to 30 inches tall and weigh 80 to 130 pounds.

These big dogs are not all brawn, but they have the brains too! It’s fairly easy to train Black Russians to do complex working tasks and jobs, which explains why they’re a popular choice for canine work. But that’s not all – the work ethic of the breed is superb too.

Thanks to their waterproof double coat, these dogs are able to work in the harshest conditions of Russia. Rain, snow or shine, a Black Russian is up for the challenge. And despite their big size, they’re fairly quick and nimble dogs. It’s why they’re reliable for certain work.

Black Russian Terrier Temperament

The Black Russian is a hard-working dog breed – there’s no denying this. If given the chance, they’ll be the ultimate workhorse. They know they’re highly capable of many jobs, so their stubbornness will do all it takes to get things done.

These dogs are make fantastic guard dogs because of their innate instinct to protect and guard. In fact, plenty of Black Russians still serve as guard dogs in their home country. Plus, I don’t know many people that would want to mess with this 100-pound dog!

When they’re not on the field working, Black Russians are calm and affectionate dogs in the home. They love the family and do especially well with kids. On the other hand, you will need to provide these dogs with the physical activities that they require.

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5. Caucasian Shepherd

Highlights: Brave, Spirited, Friendly

The Caucasian Shepherd is a mastiff-type Russian dog breed that comes from the most southern point of Russia – the Caucasus Mountains. They’re also referred to as the Caucasian Ovcharka with many believing they’re actually native to other nearby countries.

These dogs are huge, weighing up to 170 lbs and standing 30 inches tall. As one may expect, they were bred to be fierce guardians. And with their thick frame and muscular build, it would be a shame if they weren’t used to protect farms and livestock.

For centuries, Caucasian Shepherds were premier companions for local farmers. They really did it all, from guarding livestock to pulling loads, and other various farm jobs. However, they know when to turn their intensity up and down. So, they can be good family dogs too.

Caucasian Shepherd Temperament

Caucasian Shepherds have all the qualities of a great guard dog. They’re bold, brave, fierce and highly confident in themselves – as they should. But when they’re at home in a loving environment, Caucasian Shepherds can be very different dogs.

They’re loyal, sweet, calm and affectionate towards the family members. And yes, this includes children and other pets too! Like with most guard dogs, they’ll be wary of strangers and may take a while to warm up to them. But that’s expected out of most guard dogs.

As for training, these giant dogs need a dominant leader. Establish dominance early on when they’re still small. Be consistent while using only positive reinforcement for training. Socializing would be a huge plus for these dogs, as with all dominant breeds.

6. Central Asian Shepherd

Highlights: Independent, Confident, Brave

One of the most ancient breeds, the Central Asian Shepherd can be traced back to over 5,000 years ago. And like a Caucasian Shepherd, these Shepherd dogs have been guarding local farmer livestock and properties for thousands of years.

Though they were believed to have originated from somewhere in Central Asia, the Soviet Union was credited for standardizing this breed in the 1920’s. After the fall of the USSR, a new variation of these dogs were bred, called the Central Asian Ovcharka.

They differ in size, coat color and personality, though both breeds are fairly similar in appearance. And in the early 2000’s, these shepherds became immensely popular due to their instincts to protect. At one point, they were the most popular dog in Russia.

Central Asian Shepherd Temperament

Because they are guard dogs by nature, the Central Asian Shepherd is inherently protective. Not very many things can get past a Central Asian Shepherd. Plus, they take their guarding tasks very seriously and require socialization and obedience training to keep them in check.

Needless to say, these shepherds are not for novice dog owners. These dogs are relatively primitive, having been bred through thousands of years of natural selection. Plus, their over-powering size and dominance can be a nightmare for some owners.

However with enough socialization and a firm hand in obedience training, they can make great family dogs. Just make sure you establish dominance early on with these dogs. If you wait until they grow into their full 150-lb frame, things will be a lot more difficult.

7. East European Shepherd

Highlights: Courageous, Athletic, Smart

The East European Shepherd was developed by the Soviet Union in the 1930s for police work and guard dog duties. Basically, they’re like the Russian version of the German Shepherd – and it’s easy to see why. In fact, these dogs were modeled after the German Shepherd.

So why didn’t they just import German Shepherds? Well, because of the harsh winter climates of Russia, they needed a police dog that could withstand the freezing temperatures. However, these dogs have a lot of the same traits as the GSD: the braveness, loyalty and work ethic.

The East European is slightly larger than a GSD, weighing up to 110 pounds and sitting 30 inches tall. In Russia, along with other ex-Soviet Union states, these dogs are widely popular. But in western countries, not so much. Regardless, they may be the GSD’s biggest rivals.

East European Shepherd Temperament

The East Europeans are hard working dogs, just like with the GSD. But just because they love to work doesn’t mean they can’t be great family dogs. They have a relatively balanced temperament and show high marks with all aspects of dog intelligence.

Confident by nature, the East European Shepherds are fearless. Because they were bred specifically for police work and guard duties, they needed to be brave and confident in whatever task is handed to them. For this reason, they’ll make formidable guard dogs in homes.

As with all working dogs, the East European Shepherd needs a lot of exercise. Plus, mental stimulation is crucial due to their high intelligence. Their obedience and working IQ is off the charts. In other words, the dog is very obedient and quick at learning.

8. East Siberian Laika

Highlights: Loyal, Protective, Energetic

The East Siberian Laika is a spitz-type dog that originated from the region east of the Yenisei River in Siberia. Though they were originally bred for hunting, they’ve turned out to be very versatile dogs that can do it all. In fact, some specialize in herding or sled-pulling!

Even after domestication for so many years, the East Siberian Laika still retain the wolf-like qualities they inherited from their ancient ancestors. Historians speculate that they were actually developed years ago with influence of Chinese and Japanese breeds.

The standard for this dog, along with other Laikas, were established in 1947. However, they have yet to be officially recognized by any major kennel clubs. In the western part of the world, dog owners seem to prefer their cousin – the Siberian Husky instead.

East Siberian Laika Temperament

The East Siberian Laika can be a fierce hunter on the field. But off the field, they’re actually affectionate and sweet dogs. They’ll rarely show aggression towards humans, but you may not want to push their limits. They’re far from being pushovers.

They can be a little protective and territorial in their home. However, these are the traits that also make them great guard or watch dogs. With their sharp instincts, it’s hard to imagine a thief getting past these dogs without being noticed.

East Siberian Laikas have a passion for hunting and it shows. They’re not to be trusted with smaller pets in the home! In addition, they need to remain active. Sitting at home and lounging with the family cannot be their only thing. A stimulating job will make them happy.

9. Franzuskaya Bolonka

Highlights: Lively, Cheerful, Sociable

There are two varieties of the Russian Bolonka breeds. One of which, is the Franszuskaya Bolonka. Their name is sort of a misnomer. Although the word “Franszuskaya” translates to “French,” this bolonka is of Russian origin.

But the name isn’t completely random. It’s likely because the development of these dogs were inspired by popular French dogs, such as the Toy Poodle and the Bichon Frise. But in reality, they’re a variation of an Italian lapdog, called the Bolognese.

In fact, the word bolonka means “bolognese” in Russian. So in reality, the Russians used an Italian dog to develop their version of the French toy dogs. Needless to say, it worked because they’re very sweet lapdogs that resemble any of the worlds’ best lap dog breeds.

Franzuskaya Bolonka Temperament

These dogs are a lot more intelligent than they look. Plus, possess a balanced temper that meshes well with all types of people. But with the people they truly love, these toy Bolonkas are going to stick by their side and shower them with kisses.

Though small in size, they’re not at all shy. Typically very cheerful and curious, these Bolonkas love to play and will entertain their people for the sake of getting their attention. They love to be the center of attention. And as a result, there’s never a dull moment with one.

Because of their territorial instincts, they can become great watchdogs. They’ll alert you of intruders, but they will make terrible guard dogs. Franzuskaya Bolonkas perceive almost all people as potential playmates. It doesn’t take them long to warm up to a stranger.

10. Moscow Watchdog

Highlights: Gentle, Protective, Confident

The Moscow Watchdog is like the Russian cousin of the St Bernard. As a matter of fact, these dogs are actually the hybrid of the Saint Bernard and Caucasian Shepherd. These massive dogs were developed in the Soviet Union and can weigh up to 150 lbs.

But unlike the Saint Bernard, Moscow Watchdogs are active dogs that require a lot of exercise. They were bred during World War II, when Russia needed help managing domestic crime. So, they were used as guard dogs in government warehouses, railroads or labor camps.

Though they were once considered rare outside of Russia, they have been slowly gaining popularity in and around Europe. Even today, Moscow Watchdogs aren’t the easiest Russian dog to find. And despite making it to America, they’re not very prevalent.

Moscow Watchdog Temperament

The Moscow Watchdog has a similar temperament to that of the Saint Bernard. In other words, they’re loving gentle giants that have high tolerance and patience. But, they need to be socialized early on. They’ll get along great with people and dogs only if properly trained.

As with most guard and watchdogs, the Moscow Watchdog has strong protective instincts. They are great dogs for those that need an extra eye watching their kids. And when the situation calls for it, such as their family being threatened, they’ll have your back.

To raise an excellent family dog, you’ll need to establish dominance early with this huge canine. I can’t stress how important this is, as all big dogs that can hurt people. That being said, they’re not the best for most first-time owners.

11. Moscow Water Dog

Highlights: Brave, Confident, Independent

Also known as the Russian Newfoundland, the Moscow Water Dog was another breed developed by the Soviet Union in the 1950s. Though they were first intended as Navy companions, Moscow Water Dogs were ultimately not suitable because of their aggressive temperaments.

Funny enough, instead of saving, they would often attack sailors. Obviously, that was a problem. Today, the Moscow Water Dogs are nearly extinct. Since there was no use for these dogs anymore, all breeding had stopped early on.

However, the role of the Moscow Water Dog did not go to waste. They did serve a purpose in breeding of the Black Russian Terrier. Along with 13 other breeds, the Moscow Water Dog was used to breed one of Russia’s most successful “army dogs.”

Moscow Water Dog Temperament

Although they’re called the Russian Newfoundland, this Water Dog’s temperament is very different. The Newfoundland is gentle and calm, but these waterdogs were vicious. In the end, the aggressive nature of the dog led to their downfall and extinction.

On the other hand, they were highly capable swimmers – as all waterdogs should be. But the Moscow Water Dog was an exceptional swimmer. Even in the rough seas with freezing temperatures, these dogs excelled at their jobs (sometimes).

They were confident and courageous, which is what the Russian army had intended. It’s just that they weren’t bred with a more docile temperament when off the field. If you can find a hybrid of these dogs, they will need plenty of socialization.

12. Russian Harlequin Hound

Highlights: Active, Good-natured, Outgoing

The Russian Harlequin Hound, also known as the Anglo-Russian, is one of the two most popular scent hounds to originate out of Russia. Even then, they’re still an extremely rare dog breed and are difficult to find outside of their home country.

Despite being a relatively rare breed, they’re still used as hunting companions in Russia today. They were developed by crossbreeding the Russian Hound with the English Foxhound. As a result, they’re superbly skilled in tracking “red game,” namely, foxes and wolves.

Russian Harlequins are known for their square build with their signature tri-colored coat (patches over white coat). In many ways, these hounds are similar to the smaller tri-color Beagle. Many people still have a difficult time telling the two breeds apart.

Russian Harlequin Temperament

Though these dogs are friendly and sociable with most people, they have a high prey drive. Nearly all hunting dogs, especially those bred to hunt “red game,” will have these instincts. That said, they need a lot of socializing early on if they’re going to live with cats or other small pets.

As you may have guessed, Russian Harlequins are extremely loyal dogs and will stick by your side while at home. On the field, they love to hunt. However in the home, they just love to spend time with family and would be prefer to participate in family activities too!

They’re very energetic and active dogs, requiring a generous amount of exercise daily. And depending on your dog, most Russian Harlequins may not be suitable for apartment life. Not only do they need to run (a lot) but most tend to be highly vocal dogs.

13. Russian Hound

Highlights: Obedient, Loyal, Energetic

The Russian Hound is another popular scent hound that was developed in Russia. However, they were developed much earlier than Harlequin Hound (sometime around the late 18th century). It’s why this particular dog was given the simplified namesake.

These dogs have a specialized hunting job, and would often work in conjunction with Russian Borzois to get the job done. Russian Hounds would flush game out to where the hunters and Borzois would be waiting to chase them in the open.

Russian Hounds are medium to large dogs, weighing anywhere up to 70 lbs and standing as tall as 27 inches. With their short and dense coat, these dogs are more than well-equipped for the rough hunting grounds of Russia and surrounding regions.

Russian Hound Temperament

Russian Hounds are very energetic and lively dogs that love to work. They could spend all day hunting with their owner if given the chance. In fact, we think the human hunter would get tired of hunting before these hounds (typical of most hound dogs).

They’re fairly easy to train because they’re eager to please and highly obedient dogs. As long as their handler is in charge, they’ll do what they can to please. In the home, they’re as loyal as they are on the field. Whatever you need, they’ll try their best.

A Russian Hound will do great around other dogs and people. Because they hunt in packs and alongside other dogs, they tend to get along very well with other dogs. However with small pets or dogs, the high prey-drive will show.

14. South Russian Ovcharka

Highlights: Strong, Lively, Protective

The South Russian Ovcharka, or “Russian Sheepdog” for short, was developed in Ukraine (when it was still a part of the Soviet Union). As a result, it’s not uncommon to hear the true enthusiasts call them the Ukrainian Shepherd dog.

They’re primarily found along the massive grasslands between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. In the region, they serve primarily as herding dogs, but sometimes as guard dogs. They’re also very adaptable dogs, capable of living in a wide range of temperatures.

With a strong body and thick coat, they’re some of the best multi-purpose workers to come out from Russia. However, these dogs are hard to come by. It’s extremely difficult to find one even in their home countries of Russia and Ukraine.

Russian Sheepdog Temperament

These dogs need a lot of leadership. If you plan to bring one home, you’ll need to establish dominance with firm and consistent training. They should not be for the novice trainers. Their instincts may be a little too overwhelming for some.

They thrive serving as herding dogs, as that was their intended purpose. However, you’ll need to exhibit strong dominance over the “ownership” of the livestock. Otherwise, the Russian Sheepdog may become possessive of the animals or people.

These sheepdogs have strong protective instincts, which needs to be kept in check. While they would serve as great family guardians, they can be aggressive with strangers. Needless to say, socializing is more crucial in this dog than any other Russian breed.

15. Russian Spaniel

Highlights: Carefree, Cheerful, Energetic

The Russian Spaniel was first developed in 1951 through the crossbreeding of various spaniel-type dogs, such as the English Cocker and Springer Spaniels. And although they may look very similar to the Cocker Spaniel, they have an elongated body and a denser coat.

Coat color on the Russian Spaniel tends to vary (with spots and freckles), however they have will always have the signature spaniel feathering on the ears and legs. The long ears is another obvious physical trait that may get them confused with other spaniels.

Russian Spaniels may be relatively small dogs, but they’re excellent hunting and gun dogs. Don’t let the size or friendly personality fool you, they’re some of the best. They come with the full gun dog package – a sharp nose, stamina, perseverance, and a natural instinct for retrieving.

Russian Spaniel Temperament

A Russian Spaniel is bold, lively and spirited – much like the English Spaniel. They’re great companions with a workers’ mentality on the field but an easy-going attitude at home. That said, Russian Spaniels are fan-favorites due to their adaptability.

Loyal as they come, Russian Spaniels are completely devoted to the task given at hand. It’s why they’re such great gun dogs and watchdogs. But without an assigned task or job, your Russian Spaniel may dive into depression and become unpredictable in the home.

In addition, these spaniels are highly obedient and trainable. Descending from intelligent spaniels, they can be just as smart with their eagerness to learn. Russian Spaniels thrive around kids. Not only are they great playmates, but can also be a second pair of eyes.

16. Russian Toy Terrier

Highlights: Smart, Devoted, Delightful

Small yet elegant, the Russian Toy was developed to be the ultimate Russian lapdog. They were initially bred in Russia from the English Toy Terrier. As for looks, Russian Toys are some of the smallest. Standing just below 28cm, they’re almost as tiny as a Chihuahua.

It’s worth noting that there are two coat variations for the Russian Toy Terrier: smooth and long coated. And although the two variations were called different dogs at various points in time, the two types were combined into one in 1988.

Russian Toys were originally bred for companionship, exclusively for the Russian elite or aristocrats. But the breed has come a long way since their “royal” days. In fact, they’ve become great companions or lap dogs enjoyed by numerous families across the world today.

Russian Toy Temperament

There’s nothing the Russian Toy enjoys more than to lounge on your lap. That’s exactly what they were bred for. These sweet-natured dogs love to have fun. Whether it’s playing with their toys or a game of hide-n-seek, they’re happy as long as the owner is there.

Human companionship is the most important thing with these toy dogs. They need it to remain happy. In some cases, they will let you know when they want your attention. Likewise, they’ll come by your side when they sense you’re feeling down.

The human-to-dog bond developed with the Russian Toy is something special. They will be inseparable. That said, they can be aloof or cautious around strangers, making them decent watchdogs. Unlike other lap dogs, they won’t wag their tails at everyone.

17. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

Highlights: Charming, Curious, Lively

The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is very similar to the Franzuskaya Bolonka. In fact, the only difference is that the latter comes in a white coat. But even so, that doesn’t stop casual dog owners from confusing the two due to their similar temperaments and traits.

Bred to be the ultimate Russian apartment dog, the Bolonka is a relatively rare breed bred by using some of the world’s most famous toy dogs. These dogs include the Bichon Frise, Pekingese, Shih Tzu and the French Bolognese.

They’re most similar to the Bolognese. In fact, they’re so similar that their name, Bolonka, translates to “Bolognese” in many Slavic languages. The best part is that they’re hypoallergenic dogs. In other words, these toy dogs are perfect for owners sensitive to dog allergens.

Tsvetnaya Bolonka Temperament

Easy-going and outgoing, the Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a companion lap dog that gets along with anyone. This Bolonka loves people and people adore them back. And as you may have guessed, they’re quick to make friends and easy to fall in love with.

On the other hand, the Tsvetnaya Bolonkas are alert and vigilant, making them great watchdogs. They aren’t like typical small dogs, however. For instance, they don’t bark as much as a Chihuahua, which is a huge plus for homes with small children.

Despite being a toy dog, they can be independent-minded. For them to get along with all people, they require socialization. The Bolonkas are as intelligent as any breed. They’re fairly easy to train and do well with obedience training if positive reinforcement is used.

18. Russo European Laika

Highlights: Lively, Alert, Territorial