Samoyed

Breed Group: Working

Size: Medium, Large

Height: 19–24 inches

Weight: 35–65 pounds

Coat Type: Thick, weather-resistant double coat with a soft, dense undercoat and a harsher outer coat that insulates against extreme cold.

Coat Colors: White, cream, biscuit, and slight variations.

Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, gentle, alert, social, and intelligent. Samoyeds love being part of family life and generally enjoy meeting new people.

Energy Level: High; thrives on outdoor play, long walks, and active work, especially in cooler temperatures.

Good with Children: Yes (especially with supervision around very small children due to their size and enthusiasm).

Good with Other Pets: Yes (typically does well with other dogs and household pets when properly socialized).

Trainability: High; intelligent and eager to please, though a bit independent at times. Responds best to positive, reward-based training and consistent routines.

Barking Tendency: Moderate to High; can be vocal when excited, when alerting the family, or when bored without enough mental and physical activity.

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), diabetes mellitus, glomerulopathy, hypothyroidism, and occasional joint issues.

Exercise Requirements: High; needs daily walks, active playtime, and ideally activities such as hiking, jogging in cool weather, or dog sports like canicross or recreational sled pulling.

Hypoallergenic: No (they shed heavily, especially during seasonal coat blows).

History: Originating with the Samoyedic people of Siberia, Samoyeds were bred to herd reindeer, pull sleds, and act as warm companions in Arctic climates. Their close bond with families and gentle nature made them both working partners and beloved friends. The iconic “Sammy smile” not only reflects their happy personality but also helps prevent drooling, which reduced icicle formation in freezing temperatures. Today, Samoyeds remain popular worldwide as joyful, loyal family dogs who still love to work and play in the cold.