Samoyed

                                        Samoyed

AKA:Samoyedskaya
Origin:Russia
Size:Medium
Ease of training:Medium
Grooming:Low/Medium
Shedding:Medium/High
Exercise needed:Daily walks
Energy level:Medium
Protection:May make effective watchdog
Good with children:Yes
Health clearances:OFA, CERF
Popularity:76/155

Samoyed Temperament

The Samoyed is a dog that is friendly, good natured, and affectionate, making for a good family pet and companion. These dogs are playful and a little on the mischievous side, and they have plenty of spirit and enthusiasm. They are also sweet, gentle and get along with just about everyone. Although the Samoyed will bark to raise an alarm, which can make him an effective watchdog, he is too gentle and docile to be a guard dog. This breed loves to spend time with his family and owners, and likes companionship and affection, so he is not the right choice for those with little time for a pet. If you neglect your Samoyed you could quickly find destructive behavior setting in as a result of boredom. These dogs do love to chase, and therefore need to be provided with a safe and secure area to play and exercise when not on a leash.

The Samoyed is an intelligent dog and is quick to learn, which can make training less of a challenge. This breed can be very independent and strong minded, and therefore needs a confident and assertive owner - they are best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership and training. They do get along very well with children, although some can be large and a little too boisterous for smaller children. They also tend to be welcoming with strangers and get along well with most other animals. These dogs enjoy play and exercise, and fare particularly well in colder weather. If you are looking for a quiet, inactive life, the Samoyed is not the dog for you, as he does bark a lot, and does need a fair amount of exercise as well as plenty of interaction.

Samoyed Appearance

The Samoyed is a pretty and distinctive looking dog, and is medium to large in size with a sturdy and well proportioned build. He has a beautiful double coat, which is dense and soft underneath with a harsh outer coat. The coloring of the Samoyed's coat is white, and may have cream or beige shadings. He has a beautiful, plumed tail, and a distinctive 'smiling' mouth, which has become known as the 'Sammy smile'. The weight of the Samoyed is around 35-50 pounds for females, and around 50-65 pounds for males. The height of these dogs is around 19-21 inches for females, and 21-24 inches for males.

Samoyed Grooming

Although the Samoyed has a beautiful, abundant coat, the grooming requirements are not as extensive as they may seem. His coat needs to be brushed twice a week, and when shedding more heavily will need to be brushed on a daily basis. These dogs are medium shedder, and shed more heavily twice a year as well as lighter shedding that is year round. They are therefore not the best choice of allergy sufferers.

Samoyed Health Problems and Life Expectancy

Although the Samoyed is a relatively healthy breed, there are some health issues to look out for with these dogs. This includes diabetes, cataracts, thyroid problems, HD, PRA, and allergies. Take care in hot weather and humid environments, as the Samoyed does not enjoy being in high temperatures because of his thick coat. The life expectancy of the Samoyed is around 12-15 years. The parents of the Samoyed puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

Samoyed History

Originating from Russia, the Samoyed was used for herding, guard duties, sled pulling, and even for helping keep the huts of the tribes warm. Often used as a sled pulling dog in the Arctic, the Samoyed has become an increasingly popular family pet. This breed was registered with the AKC in 1906.