A smiling Samoyed dog in a flower patch.

Samoyed

avatar Alanna Mallory, BS, LVT, VTS (SAIM)

Height19 - 23.5"

Weight50 - 65 lbs

TypeWorking

Life Expectancy12 - 15 years

Area of OriginSiberia

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

The Samoyed is a strong, but gentle, Working Breed dog that dates back to the 18th century. They are known for their brilliant white haircoat and "smiling face." However, that captivating smile is not only for appearances. The upturned mouth prevents drooling, which helps them avoid icicle formation in arctic temperatures. Surprisingly, the Samoyed was not known for hunting, but used to pull sledges and herd reindeer. They are extremely friendly dogs that love human companionship. Samoyeds are intelligent, but independent, so early training is recommended for this breed. As a working dog, they like to stay active, so daily walks suit them best. Be sure to keep them on a leash, because they can run for miles without tiring if they get away from their owners. Samoyeds truly enjoy family time, and leaving them alone for long periods can result in destructive behavior. Their glorious double coat is best suited for cooler temperatures, so monitor them closely in warmer climates, as they have a tendency to overheat. The Samoyed's haircoat does require daily brushing, but the resulting glimmering, white fur makes it all worth it! They are excellent watchdogs and are truly kind, making them excellent additions to the family. The Samoyed's cheerful presence is sure to bring joy to all those they encounter.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Samoyeds From?

The Samoyed was first reported in the 18th century as a working dog for the Samoedic people of northern Siberia. During the day, they were used to pull belongings from place to place, as well as herd reindeer. By night, they were watchdogs and companions that were kept inside their owners’ tents. Their luxurious fur was also used as clothing to keep their owners warm.

The breed reached England in 1889 via an explorer named Ernest Kilburn-Scott, and have since gained popularity. Samoyeds have been integral members of expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. They made their way to Australia after Scott used the breed in a South Pole expedition. Queen Alexandra was also a fancier of the breed, and the Samoyed has since made its way into American kennels. In 1906, the American Kennel Club registered its first Samoyed.

Where Are Samoyeds From?

Care

How Much Exercise Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

The Samoyed requires daily exercise, either a long walk or play with family members. Always keep this breed on a leash! They are built for endurance and speed, with the ability to run for miles if given the chance. The Samoyed’s haircoat is built for the Arctic and should be monitored closely in warm climates. They have a tendency to overheat in hot weather and should not be exercised heavily or kept in the heat for long periods.

What Kind of Diet Does a Samoyed Need?

The Samoyed should be fed a high-quality, age-appropriate diet. They can become overweight if their caloric intake is not properly monitored. Obesity can worsen arthritis or hip dysplasia, so it is ideal for your pet to maintain a healthy weight.

How Much Grooming Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

The Samoyed requires daily brushing to maintain their spectacular haircoat. Since their hair is thick, it can be difficult to bathe, so a dry shampoo should be considered instead. They are prone to mats if not properly groomed, which can lead to discomfort or skin issues. Routine nail trims are recommended for the breed, and shedding can become excessive once to twice a year.

Are Samoyeds Healthy Dogs?

The Samoyed is generally healthy, but there are some health concerns associated with the breed. As a deep-chested dog, they are prone to gastric torsion. Gastric dilatation volvulus is a condition that occurs after a large meal, when the stomach dilates as a result of gas and food. This type of emergency is life threatening.

They are also predisposed to hip dysplasia, which is a hereditary malformation of the hip joints. This can result in pain, lameness, and arthritis. Ocular diseases are also common, like glaucoma (increased pressure within the eye that can lead to pain and blindness), cataracts (loss of transparency in the ocular lens), and progressive retinal atrophy (degeneration of the nerves at the back of the eye). Routine ocular examinations by your veterinarian can help detect eye conditions.

The Samoyed’s life span is 12 – 15 years.

Samoyeds are predisposed to: gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, cataracts, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, portosystemic shunt, renal dysplasia, aortic stenosis, nasal depigmentation, congenital deafness, arthritis, kidney failure, anal gland disease, dwarfism, and urinary tract infections.

How Much Training Does a Samoyed Need?

The Samoyed is an intelligent, independent dog that can be easily trained if started at a young age. They demand attention and affection from their owners, and if not provided they can become destructive. They are a pack breed and establishing your alpha role early on is key. Early socialization is also recommended. Once trained, they are sure to become a loving and loyal companion.

How Much Exercise Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

Are Samoyeds Healthy Dogs?

The Samoyed’s life span is 12 – 15 years.

How Much Training Does a Samoyed Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

Caring for a Samoyed

What Kind of Diet Does a Samoyed Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

Are Samoyeds Healthy Dogs?

How Much Training Does a Samoyed Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Samoyed Dog Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Samoyed Need?

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Samoyed?

Samoyeds are medium-to-large-sized dogs that are built for agility and endurance. Their long, double haircoat is both weather resistant and radiant. They have a signature “smiling face” and pointed ears. They stand 19 – 23.5 inches tall and weigh 50 – 65 pounds.

The corners of the Samoyed mouth are upturned, creating a signature smile, which helps prevent icicle formation. Their heads are wedge-shaped with a medium-sized muzzle and erect, triangular ears. Eyes are dark with an alert appearance, and the nose is black.

Yes, Samoyeds are strong, due to a lean, muscular body, dense bone structure, and sturdy loins.

The Samoyed tail can be held curled up over the hind end when the dog is alert, but is usually dropped down when resting. It is of medium length with long, fluffy hair.

Samoyed forequarters consist of long, parallel legs with feathered hair and sloped shoulders. They have large feet with long, arched toes and thick paw pads to withstand the elements.

Samoyeds come in white or biscuit colors, as well as combinations of the two. Their long, weather-proof double coat should have hints of sparkling silver when caught by the light.

Samoyed hindquarters consist of muscular thighs and legs that are parallel to the front. Their feet are large, with arched toes and thick paw pads.

Samoyed Facts

1

Queen Alexandra of Denmark thoroughly enjoyed the Samoyed breed, and ancestors of her dogs are still prevalent in England and America today.

2

Samoyeds accompanied Roald Amundsen, an explorer from Norway, on his successful voyage to the South Pole in 1911.

3

The Samoyed's luxurious haircoat is not just a thing of beauty. It also serves as protection from both the harsh Arctic winter and the swarming mosquitoes of summer.

Other Breeds to Explore

Siberian Husky

Choosing a Norwegian Elkhound

Alaskan Malamute

References

Morris, Desmond. Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of Over 1,000 Dog Breeds. Trafalgar Square, 2002.
American Kennel Club. The Complete Dog Book. Random House Digital, Inc., 2006.
Wilcox, Bonnie and Chris Walkowicz. The Atlas of Dog Breeds of the World. T.F.H Publications, Inc., 1995.
Samoyed Dog Breed Information. American Kennel Club, 2020.
AIS/PennHIP FAQ. ANTECH Imaging Services, 2016.
What is Canine Hip Dysplasia?. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. 2020.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus. American College of Veterinary Surgeons. 2020.