Despite their graceful and all-around ethereal appearance, Samoyeds are sturdy and powerful. They are also called “Sammies” and are smart, social dogs. Sammies were bred to serve as sled dogs in some of Earth’s coldest places, which explains their hallmark thick, white coat which protects them from harsh, icy conditions.
Their smiling appearance, which is also a favorite trait for many folks, serves a purpose too! The upturned corners of their mouths reduce drooling. Drool in icy climates lead to icicles around the mouth, but that’s no concern for the Samoyed. Sled dogs grow a very strong connection with humans, which is why they have such a relationship oriented-personality to this day. Samoyeds do not like to be ignored or left alone.
Sammies need a firm, but loving hand when it comes to training. Consistency and repetition are key. Sammies have a rich history with the Samoyede people, a nomadic group native to northern Russia. There, they pulled sleds by day and huddled in tents with their people for warmth at night. They were bred for a close connection with their humans and still thrive on that, which is why they should never be sentenced to solitary confinement in their backyard.
The Samoyed is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Because of their energy level, need for affection, and desire to roam and run, they do not tend to adapt well to apartment living. They do best in a larger home with a securely fenced-in yard where they can run. Due to their coat, they are practically impervious to the cold. So, they do very well in even extremely cold climates. However, they do not handle the heat well. They also do not handle alone time very well because they love to be with their families.
Samoyeds are generally healthy with a lifespan of 12-14 years. They do have certain health conditions that they are predisposed to, which include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and heart problems.
A Samoyed is not a good fit for novice owners as they can be strong-willed and need firm and consistent, but loving and gentle training. This can be difficult for novice dog owners to handle and navigate on their own. Training and obedience classes and the help of a professional trainer can help a determined first-time dog owner build a strong bond with their puppy and handle life with a Samoyed.
The Samoyed has a thick, double coat, which is no surprise given their history in the arctic regions of the world. They shed quite a bit and require daily brushing to remove dirt and lose hairs. Mattes are somewhat inevitable and can be removed with a metal comb. Their nails should be trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed several times per week.
Sammies need daily exercise. They love to be with their people and participate in family activities like hikes. They should always be in a fenced-in yard or on a leash because they have the propensity to run and roam. They can get distracted and travel for miles before realizing that they’re lost.
Samoyeds grow to a height of 19-24 inches, weighing 35-65 pounds.
This dog breed usually lives for 12-14 years.
The Samoyed was popular with mushers of the early 20th century and were known for being able to pull one and half times their own weight as a sled dog. Samoyeds also helped Roald Amundsen reach the South Pole in 1911.
