Shalaika dog

History of origin

On December 20, 2018, a new breed of dog was introduced in Our Country – Shalaika, or Sulimova dog, on which they have been working for 7 whole years! Shalaika is an ideal assistant to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and to create the breed, it was decided to cross the Laika with wolves and jackals. In the end, they settled on jackals, because they have a better sense of smell than wolves. The jackal is an omnivore that can eat berries and other plants, which means it can easily identify plant materials for drugs. Also, good immunity was transferred from jackals to shalaikas.

For crossing with the jackal, they chose the reindeer herding husky, as the most cold-resistant breed of dog. Since jackals are the enemies of domestic animals, and crossing was a certain difficulty, I had to use the imprinting method. Bitch huskies put three or four-day-old jackal puppies. Wild animals grew up and got along well with the “mother”.

The first selection took place in the Moscow Zoo. Out of 23 babies, under the guidance of Aeroflot security breeder Klim Sulimov, 14 adults were raised, who have already taken part in the creation of a new breed.

The first generation of huts had a very difficult and wild character – the genes of the jackal made themselves felt. These dogs did not succumb to training, were nervous and aggressive. Then it was decided to withdraw the second, third and fourth generation. Each time it turned out better – the hybrids already chewed food more thoroughly, their character changed for the better.

But the postures of intimidation, howling, barking, the manner of holding the tail – all came from jackals. After seven years of dog handlers’ efforts, the breed was finally formed. The breed is also called “quatro” – the dog’s genes contain a quarter of the genes of the jackal – “quatro”. At the moment, about 40 dogs are serving at the Sheremetyevo airport, and their selection continues to this day.

Breed description

Shalaiki are medium-sized dogs with a well-developed muscular body and strong limbs. They have pointed, wolf-like ears and a thick, fluffy tail. Small expressive eyes are always amber, and the nose is expressively black. The wool of the huts is thick and hard, so that even the most severe frosts and piercing winds are not afraid of them. The color is usually brown, with light patches. There is a light spot on the chest, and the tips of the paws are also light.

Photos

Character

Shalaika has a very difficult character: she will not become a true friend and will not become attached to the owner because of the jackal genes. Although the huts were not taken out for “friendship”, their tasks are completely different – to work in the service of law enforcement agencies, and they cope with these tasks perfectly.

Shalaiki treat people very cautiously and coolly. These dogs are very wayward and independent. Shalaiki usually do not contact representatives of other breeds, but they get along well with their “relatives” and can even come to the rescue.

Sulimov’s dogs are fearless, brave and active. They are very mobile and energetic, so they need constant physical activity. At an early age, puppies are very playful, and when they grow up, they become very serious and stern. You can’t buy a shalaika, and you shouldn’t start it as a pet.

Care and maintenance

Complicated care for the shanty is not required – the main thing is to comb out the coat well during molts. Be sure to carry out antihelminthic treatment once a quarter, and in the summer treat with special preparations for ticks and fleas.

Trimming nails is unpleasant for Shalaika, so it is best to avoid it. There is nothing terrible and dangerous in long claws for this breed. You need to bathe such a dog only as it gets dirty, they are not afraid of water.

The dog should have meat in the diet (at least 80% of the diet), a couple of times a week it can be replaced with fish. Also in the diet should be present cereals, fruits and vegetables. The dog should always have access to clean drinking water.

Education and training

Shalaiki are very well trained, they grasp everything on the fly and even show interest in learning new skills. The main incentive for them is to get a treat after class. The approval of a trainer or dog handler is not required for such dogs.

It is strictly forbidden to show aggression towards animals during training. Clearly explain the task, indulge in a treat. You should not show your superiority, the hut still does not recognize him, as well as love, devotion and affection.

Health and disease

Shalaki have excellent immunity: they feel great both at -40 ° C and at +30 ° C, which is ideal for keeping them in natural conditions. They have no congenital or hereditary diseases. The main thing is to vaccinate in time so that the dog does not become infected.

Popular questions and answers

She answered us questions about the shalaika veterinarian, zoo engineer Anastasia Kalinina.