Soyotag

Soyotag is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a specific breed of dog and a cultural group. The Soyot dog is a breed originating from the Sayan Mountains region of Siberia. These dogs are known for their endurance, strength, and adaptability to harsh climates. They are typically large and muscular, with thick coats that protect them from the cold. Historically, Soyot dogs were used by the indigenous Soyot people as herding dogs and guard animals, and also for pulling sleds.

The Soyot people themselves are a Turkic indigenous group traditionally inhabiting the Sayan Mountains, a mountain range in southern Siberia bordering Mongolia. They are a small ethnic group with a distinct language, Soyot, which belongs to the Siberian Turkic language family. Historically, their traditional lifestyle was nomadic or semi-nomadic, centered around reindeer herding, hunting, and fishing. The Soyot culture has been influenced by both Siberian Shamanism and Tibetan Buddhism. In recent times, there has been a significant effort to preserve the Soyot language and cultural traditions. The precise meaning of "Soyotag" can sometimes depend on the context in which it is used, but it is generally associated with either the dog breed or the people and their culture from the Sayan region.