Samoyed

The Samoyed, or “Sammie,” originated in ancient Siberia as a working dog. Their closeness with the Samoyede people helped form the friendly, companion Sammies we know today.

Temperament of the Samoyed Dog

The Samoyed is a working breed who thrives when he has a job to do. As a kind, gentle and devoted dog, he’s the perfect companion for families with children.

He’s a highly intelligent and active dog who will retain his puppy-like playfulness throughout his life. He’ll need daily exercise, proper socialization and training to keep his body healthy and his mind sharp.

Breed Characteristics

The Sammie’s signature, smiling black lips contribute to his happy, friendly appearance, but they serve a functional purpose, too. His lips prevent drool, which means icicles won’t form on his face in extremely cold temperatures.

How Long Does the Samoyed Live?

The Samoyed dog typically will live between 12 to 14 years.

Colours

Many think white, fluffy dogs when they think of Samoyeds, but other standard colors include biscuit, cream and white and biscuit.

Does the Samoyed Shed?

The Samoyed’s hefty, weather-resistant coat is designed to withstand the below-zero temperatures of Siberia where the breed originated. The coat sheds year round, but even more during the spring and fall. Daily brushing is required to remove dirt, debris and loose hair. Since the Samoyed’s coat is also light in colour, frequent baths may be required to keep it in pristine quality.  

Common Health Conditions

Samoyeds are a generally healthy breed, but may have a higher risk of eye disorders, heart and hip problems.

Best Dog Food for Samoyed Dogs & Puppies

Samoyeds will thrive on a complete and balanced dry or wet dog food. Sammie puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food for the first year of life to aid in their growth and development.

History of the Breed

This ancient Siberian sledge dog was bred to herd and guard reindeer. Named for the semi-nomadic Samoyedes, who migrated to Siberia from Asia a thousand years ago. First used to hunt reindeer, the Sammie’s job evolved to moving, herding and guarding the reindeer herds. By the late 1700s, British adventurers traveling to and from the Arctic brought the Samoyed back to England.

Although they still worked as sledge dogs in both America and Europe, hauling one and a half times their weight in supplies, Queen Alexandria promoted the breed as both a show dog and an ideal companion.

Moustan of Argenteau was the first Samoyed registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1906.

Facts

• A team of Samoyeds accompanied Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen on his quest to discover the South Pole in 1911.
• The Samoyed’s gene pool contains no wolf or fox blood, distinguishing this dog as a primitive breed.
• Sammies huddled in tents with the Samoyede people to keep warm on chilling Arctic nights, solidifying their strong bond with humans.
• The Sammie’s white coat resulted from sun-bleaching in the harsh Arctic sun.