The Samoyed

A complete breed guide

This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian, Dr Michelle Wong BVSc

Best known for their signature 'Sammy smile', these dogs are happy and good-natured. Originally a working dog, the Samoyed needs plenty of exercise and activities for a healthy lifestyle.

Contents:

At a glance
History
Personality
Best Toys for a Samoyed
Nutrition
Common Health Problems
Grooming

At a glance

 

Place of origin: Siberia	Life expectancy: 12-14 years	Breed size: Medium
Energy level: Moderate	Tendency to bark: High	Height range: Male: 21-23 inches Female: 19-21 inches
Coat type: Medium length	Social needs: Love getting attention	Weight range: Males: 23-30kg Females: 17-25kg
Shedding factor: High	Overall grooming needs: High	Coat colours: White and biscuit, cream, or pure white

 

History

This breed originated from Siberia and were used by the Samoyede tribe to pull sleds and herd reindeer. The reindeer they herded were under the Samoyed’s protection. The dogs also hunted game and protected the tribe from predators. They lived closely with the tribe and slept in their tents, developing a love of family life.

At the end of the 19^th century, these dogs were brought out of Siberia to pull sledges on Artic and Antarctic expeditions. Only the strongest and fittest dogs could survive such terrible hardship on man's quest for the pole.

From living with the peaceful nomads, the Samoyed developed a love and trust of humans, making them not only intelligent, powerful working dogs but also devoted and loving family dogs.

Personality and Characteristics

Samoyeds are outgoing, friendly, and loyal dogs to their family and will protect their homes. They are good with children and love to be included in all family activities.

This breed has strong chase instinct and will often take off after small animals such as cats or wildlife. It is important to have a securely fenced yard and to keep him on a leash at all times outside for his own safety. If you have small household pets, you must properly socialise the Samoyed puppy.

As they were originally working dogs, the Samoyeds are active and intelligent. They can be stubborn and wilful at times. If not provided with the right training and exercise, the Samoyed can be destructive and excessively vocal. They will need consistent leadership and early obedience training using techniques such as positive behavioural training.

Early socialisation is important, as for every puppy. Exposure to many different experiences, people and other animals while they are young will ensure your Samoyed to grow into a well-rounded adult. Puppy school is always a good start. You can invite friends and family over to visit, bring him out to busy parks or stroll outside to greet the neighbours - these will all help to make him a well socialised dog.

 

Best Toys for a Samoyed

Nutrition

Samoyeds are often a family pet in Australia, rather than a working dog, and they receive less than 1-2 hours of exercise per day. They can be fed a premium pet food designed for 'medium' or 'all breeds'. Always be sure to seek a high quality diet, as this can help keep your Samoyed's coat soft, healthy, and shiny. Premium, high quality diet recommendations include Royal Canin, Advance, or Hills Science Diet.

Puppies will need the right balance of energy, protein, fat and other nutrients for growth and development of the skeleton and immune system. Be sure to feed an age appropriate puppy diet for optimal health and development. See our Puppy Food Guide for more information.

When should you transition a Samoyed from puppy to adult food? Samoyeds can be transitioned from a 'puppy' food to an 'adult' food at around 12 months of age.

  

Top food recommendations for Adult Samoyeds

Common Health Problems

Hip Dysplasia

Inheritable condition where there is abnormal conformation of the hip joint. This can cause pain in the young dog due to the instability, and eventually lead to osteoarthritis development in the hip joint.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that may be either primary (inherited) or secondary (acquired). Primary glaucoma is where abnormal drainage inside the eye leads to sudden increase of pressure in the eye and may cause blindness. Glaucoma is a painful condition and must be treated immediately.

Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy

An inherited kidney disease which leads to kidney failure and 2-month-old puppies may begin to lose protein in urine. Male Samoyeds are more severely affected and with rapidly worsening kidney function, death often occurs by 15 months.

Diabetes

Samoyeds are at a high risk for diabetes mellitus. Dogs will show signs of increased thirst and urination, weight loss, when their body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. This condition can be treated with insulin.

Grooming

The Samoyed has a thick double coat – a longer outer coat with harsh hair and a soft undercoat. These dogs will require regular brushing to maintain.

Top Recommended Grooming Products

Further Reading

Want to read more? Check out our other articles:

Which Dog Brush do you need?

3 Common New Pet Problems

What is the Best Flea & Tick Treatment?

Premium Pet Food, Is it Worth It?

Shop All Dog Supplies Now

Want to know more? Check out our Discover Page for more tips on keeping your pets happy and healthy.