Is the Samoyed right for you?
- 1Samoyeds are said to be one of the breeds that most closely resembles the primitive dog.
- 2Samoyeds stand out because of their thick and light fur and their strength.
- 3These crafty dogs need a job to do or they will create one for themselves.
- 4Grooming the extra thick fur is a necessity all year round.
HISTORY
Named for the Siberian tribe from which this breed originated, the Samoyed was used to pull these ancient people's sleds across the icy tundra, as well as assist with hunts, help herd, and keep their people warm at night. An English explorer named Robert Scott brought the Samoyed home with him because of their beautiful coat and outstanding drive. They were first admitted into the AKC in 1906.
Quick Facts
Size
Medium
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Hair Length
Long
Male Height
21 - 23 1/2 inches
Male Weight
44 - 65 lbs
Female Height
19 - 21 1/2 lbs
Female Weight
37 - 55 lbs
Litter Size
4 to 6 puppies
Personality
The Samoyed is a fantastic companion dog with a loving and calm disposition. They are very loyal to their master and generally make a very strong bond with one person more than others. Though they might play favorites, they are still friendly to everyone, including uninvited strangers, making them laughably ineffective guard or watchdogs. They are still very intelligent dogs, and very capable of training, but they do require a firm, even-keeled pack leader, and plenty of exercise. Otherwise, they may become destructive. .
Color
Typical colors for the Samoyed are a mixture of white and biscuit coloring. However, all white and all biscuit colored dogs are not uncommon. The white of the overcoat does appear to have some silver.
Health Concerns
The normal life span of Samoyed is 1214 years. The breed is prone to:
- hip dysplasia
- progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in males
- diabetes
- skin allergies
Appearance
Bred to be a sled pulling dog, the Samoyed has a compact frame and a muscular body, giving them excellent endurance. They have a thick, white coat to help protect them from, and camouflage them with, the snowy landscapes of Siberia. Their ears are slightly rounded at the tip and are carried upright atop their head. Their long hair covers their entire body except their face, and their fuzzy, puffball of a tail is generally curled up on their back. On average, the Samoyed is roughly 21 inches tall and weighs somewhere around 50 pounds.
