Rebecca Burnett | Hickory Meadows Yakutian Laikas

Interview With Rebecca Burnett, Breeder of Hickory Meadows Yakutian Laikas

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?

Rebecca Burnett: Hello! My name is Rebecca Burnett, and I am the founder of Hickory Meadows Yakutian Laika, located in Southeastern Ohio.

My passion for dogs has been a lifelong journey, inspired by my grandmother who was a Dachshund breeder in the 1970s. I began my foray into the world of dog shows in 2018 when I started competing with my German Shepherd Dog in Obedience events. However, my true immersion in the American Kennel Club (AKC) community began in 2019 after I imported my first Yakutian Laika, Luntik. His remarkable qualities ignited my passion for this breed, and I have been dedicated to it ever since.

Working closely with other US breeders and the parent club, I imported an additional six Yakutian Laika dogs in 2021 to enhance the breed’s diversity in the United States. In 2022, I proudly had my first official Yakutian Laika litter after extensive research, health testing, and thoughtful decision-making. At Hickory Meadows, we prioritize quality over quantity, breeding only one to two litters per year. We are conscientious about our breeding pairs, understanding the importance of these foundational breedings in shaping the future of this new breed in the US.

2. What are the hallmarks of your breed and why are they important for maintaining breed type?

Rebecca Burnett: The Yakutian Laika is characterized by its hardy, athletic build suited for harsh climates as well as its alert, friendly, and sociable temperament. This intelligent and energetic breed was developed for hunting and sledding, retaining a strong prey drive while also being a loving companion and family dog.

Preserving these traits is crucial to ensuring that the Yakutian Laika remains a versatile working dog, capable of performing tasks in extreme conditions while also being a cherished family pet.

3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year?

Rebecca Burnett: There is a growing interest in the Yakutian Laika due to its unique qualities and adaptability. As this breed transitioned to the Miscellaneous Class in 2024, its popularity is expected to rise.

Breeders must remain diligent in selecting the foundations of the breed for future generations, to ensure responsible growth and sustainability.

4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder?

Rebecca Burnett: Recent advancements in science have significantly influenced dog breeding practices, focusing on health, genetics, and overall well-being. At Hickory Meadows, we prioritize genetic health and behavioral health.

We utilize DNA testing to identify genetic disorders, ensuring healthier breeding pairs and avoiding inherited diseases common in certain breeds.

By studying genetic traits and behaviors, we aim to select for stable and desirable temperament traits in our puppies.

On the communication side, we acknowledge that we could improve. As part of an older generation, we may not be as active on platforms like TikTok and social media. However, given that we only breed a few litters a year, our current limited presence hasn’t had a negative impact—but we plan to reassess our approach in the future.

5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?

Rebecca Burnett: Yes, there have been positive shifts in the perception of purebred dogs, particularly with the growing recognition of the Yakutian Laika as a loyal and versatile companion. There is also a broader awareness of responsible breeding practices. However, some segments of the public still hold misconceptions about purebred dogs, associating them with health issues or profit-driven breeding rather than companionship.

6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?

Rebecca Burnett: While the increasing participation in dog shows and events featuring the Yakutian Laika is exciting for breed recognition, I have concerns about the methods some competitors use to achieve their “firsts.”

There appears to be a trend of prioritizing specific physical traits over temperament and health, which could negatively impact the breed’s overall well-being. I often ponder the future of the Yakutian Laika if dogs with health issues, such as poor hips or elbows, are used in events for the sake of winning today.

7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Rebecca Burnett: There is a growing emphasis on health testing and ethical breeding practices, which are vital for ensuring the longevity and vitality of the breed. Additionally, more breeders and enthusiasts are collaborating to promote the Yakutian Laika, sharing knowledge and resources to improve the breed.

These collaborative efforts will lead to positive and powerful outcomes for the future of the Yakutian Laika.