Laika, the first living creature to orbit the Earth, was a mixed-breed dog, specifically a stray from the streets of Moscow. While her exact breed mix is not definitively known, she is often described as a part-Samoyed terrier or a husky mix. Her small size, calm temperament, and adaptability made her an ideal candidate for the Soviet space program's mission, Sputnik 2, which launched on November 3, 1957.

Laika's story is both a milestone in space exploration and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of scientific progress. Her journey paved the way for human spaceflight, but it also sparked ethical debates about the use of animals in research. Despite her tragic fate—Laika did not survive the mission—her legacy endures as a symbol of courage and the early days of space exploration.

If you'd like, I can expand on Laika's story, the context of her mission, or the broader history of animals in space exploration. Let me know!