Russo-European Laika dogs are another name that come from the Karelia area of Russia/Finland.
Just depends what side of the border or which club UKC vs AKC you look them up in.
Finnish ones are more of the traditional black/white coloring and can be bigger, the Russo dogs are more varied in black/white shading and can be smaller and more agile.
Good luck with your search and decision.
Went back to GSD's myself after scratching the Karelian itch.
