Samoyed: temperament, size, care and health

About the Samoyed

The Samoyed is a medium-sized spitz-type dog with a plush white coat, a wedge-shaped head, upright ears and a tail curled over its back. Adults stand roughly 19 to 23.5 inches tall. The dark eyes and upturned mouth give a face often described as a smile.

The breed was kept by the Samoyede people of northern Russia and Siberia to herd reindeer, pull sleds and keep family members warm in tents. Owners now choose it for its warmth, its looks and its friendly personality.

Temperament and family life

Samoyeds are sociable dogs that want to take part in everything. They are friendly to visitors, including strangers, so they make poor guard dogs, though they will announce arrivals loudly. They tend to be playful well into adulthood and get along well with children and other dogs, with a gentle if lively manner.

The breed does badly when isolated, and a lonely Samoyed may bark, dig or destroy furniture. It is an exceptionally vocal dog, producing a range of barks, howls and conversational noises. The herding background shows up as an urge to round up children or other pets, and prey drive toward small animals varies. Neighbors in close quarters may find the noise a problem.

Exercise and training

A Samoyed needs about an hour of active exercise daily, and more if possible. Brisk walks, hikes, play with other dogs and sports such as sledding, skijoring, agility and herding fit well. Heat is the main limit, so exercise early or late in warm weather and always provide shade and water.

The breed is intelligent but not eager to obey in a robotic way. It learns best with short, varied sessions, praise and treats, and it can be stubborn when bored. Recall is unreliable, so use a leash or a secure area. Training against barking should begin early, since it is easier to prevent than to cure. A Samoyed will also dig and often pulls on the leash.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is the main commitment. Brush it thoroughly several times a week with a slicker brush and a steel comb, and daily during the heavy twice-yearly blowout when the undercoat comes off in drifts. Professional grooming for tidying is common, but the coat should not be shaved. Baths are occasional, since the white coat sheds dirt once dry.

Samoyed hair floats around the house and clings to clothes, so a good vacuum and lint rollers are standard tools. Check the ears, trim nails and keep the feet clean. In hot weather, a cool room is essential.

Health

The Samoyed is generally healthy, with many living 12 to 14 years. Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and other eye diseases appear in the breed, and an inherited kidney condition called Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy is known, for which breeders may use genetic tests. Diabetes, an underactive thyroid and heart problems are also reported. Any worry about an individual dog is a question for your veterinarian; this is general information only.

History

The Samoyed is generally traced to nomadic tribes in northern Siberia, who relied on the dogs for herding and warmth. In the late nineteenth century, explorers brought dogs to Europe and members of polar expeditions used them. The breed's British development helped found the modern type, and the American Kennel Club recognized the Samoyed in 1906.

Is the Samoyed right for you?

A Samoyed suits a social, outdoorsy household in a cool region that enjoys grooming and doesn't mind a talkative dog. It is a poor fit for people who want a quiet home, who cannot manage heavy shedding or who live in a hot place. Those wanting a similar northern dog with a rougher independence may like the Siberian Husky, while the American Eskimo Dog offers a smaller white option. The Great Pyrenees is a larger white dog bred for a different job.