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.
PERSONALITY
Samoyeds are a very gentle and peaceful breed; too peaceful, in fact, that they’re not very reliable as watch dogs, although they let out a bark when a stranger approaches. While they are generally friendly with everyone, they tend to be very devoted to just one person. 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.
TRAINING
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.
EXERCISE
Samoyeds need a relative amount of exercise, thus, walking and running are advised. However, strenuous routines, especially during warm seasons, are not advised, because their undercoats restrain the loss of heat that was built up during exercise.
SOCIALIZATION
hey 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 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.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Samoyeds can easily adapt to small spaces, especially if they get sufficient exercise in a moderately sized yard. However, Samoyeds are not advised for people who live in hot climates, since its coat is thick and dense.
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.
HEALTH ISSUES
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.
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.
