Samoyed Breed Information

Fluffy, white, and beautiful – the Samoyed is a working dog breed affectionately known as the Sammie. This dog breed loves hard work but is affectionate and loves attention.

Breed Information

The Samoyed is perfectly built to withstand harsh, winter conditions and extreme temperatures. They are devoted to their families and love to be friendly and gentle. They do have a strong will, but are incredibly affectionate and intelligent.

History

Hailing from Russia, the Samoyed was used for pulling sleds, herding reindeer, hunting, and keeping their owners warm on cold nights in Siberia. They are what is known as a basal breed. This means that they existed prior to most of our modern breeds of dogs.

According to The Spruce Pets:

It was Arctic explorers who first brought the breed to England in the late 18th century, where the Samoyed’s regal coat and warm personality made them a fast favorite among the English elite. They were the breed of choice for Alexandra of Denmark, who became Queen of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions in 1901 after the death of Queen Victoria.

It was just five years later that the first Samoyed was registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Personality

The personality of the Samoyed is loyal, affectionate, attention seeking, and hard working. In fact, they are high on the scale of playful, kid and pet-friendly, and energetic.

Their trainability level is right down the middle. They can be trained quite well but are also quite stubborn. What is suggested is firm training packed with lots of love. They can be mischievous but are incredibly loving. The temperament of the Samoyed is very outgoing and friendly so no matter how stubborn they are, they will always love you and want to please you.

Appearance

The Samoyed is a beautiful dog with a gorgeous white coat, although some are more of a biscuit or cream color instead of bright white. They do have a thick undercoat as well. Its coat is impervious to cold and is how they have worked in extreme conditions throughout their history.

The average size in males is 21 to 23.5 inches and 45 to 60 pounds in males and 19 to 21 inches and 25 to 50 pounds in females.

An interesting face from the AKC:

Even their most delightful feature, a perpetual smile, has a practical function: The mouth’s upturned corners keep Sammies from drooling, preventing icicles from forming on the face.

This is known as the Sammie smile and is one of their most endearing features.

Health

This type of dog is certainly a healthy breed but like any canine, there are things to be aware of so you can prepare for any health concerns that may come up.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is something that affects many large dog breeds. It is when the bone of the thigh does not fit correctly (or snugly) into the hip joint and is inherited. Some dogs may have this and not even show effects of it while others will have lameness and pain.

Glaucoma

This is the same condition that human gets where there is increased pressure in the eye. It is either hereditary or secondary. When glaucoma is secondary, it means that there are other eye diseases that decrease the fluid in the eye. There are a few symptoms that include eye pain and even loss of vision.

Samoyed Hereditary Glomerulopathy

According to Dogtime:

This is a genetic disease of the kidney. The condition is more severe in males who appear healthy for the first three months of life until symptoms appear. Death from renal failure usually occurs by 15 months of age. Females develop mild symptoms at 2 to 3 months of age, but do not suffer renal failure. To date, there is no genetic screening test available for Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy, but research is ongoing.

Diabetes

Dogs get diabetes just like humans. The symptoms include increased thirst, weight loss, increased urination, and a heavier appetite. Diet and insulin are two of the ways that this is controlled.

Hyperthyroidism

Treated with diet and medication, hyperthyroidism is a disorder with the thyroid gland and causes different issues. These range from epilepsy to obesity and lethargy.

Health concerns can be expensive which is why pet insurance is an excellent idea just in case something happens to your Samoyed.

Choosing a Samoyed

Choosing a Samoyed should always be done via a reputable breeder. It is important to make sure that you have references on the breeder and that they are following all guidelines. Those who are approved by the AKC are required to follow rules and regulations established.

Taking Care of Your Samoyed

Having a dog is a huge responsibility. You are responsible for their health, care, and love.

When it comes to their coat, they need to be brushed often to ensure that dirt and debris is removed. Otherwise, their thick double coats can become matted and tangled.

Exercise is imperative as well. The Samoyed, just like other breeds, needs daily walks and playtime to ensure that their energy needs are met. This also allows them to bond with their family and get mental stimulation as well.

As mentioned, training a Samoyed requires patience and love. They are not difficult to train, they are simply a little stubborn. Their intelligence isn’t the issue; you just have to make sure that they are not bored and that they are enjoying what they are doing. They really do want to please you.

Life With a Samoyed

Choosing a Samoyed means a special dog that will love you unconditionally. They require care just like any other breed and will bring you a lifetime of joy and love.