The Samoyed is an amazing
breed, very similar in characteristics to that of a
primitive dog while still possessing qualities that
make it an excellent family pet. Although used in
artic region due to its ability to deal with cold,
the Samoyed is also a good choice anywhere although
a healthy environment is important. This particular
breed has lots of energy so most importantly realize
you would need to provide adequate exercise.
Temperament
While the Samoyed makes an outstanding choice for a
family pet or companion dog, this breed is not
exceptionally good for guarding. However, the
Samoyed has a great personality, which is wonderful
for homes with children and/or other pets. If you
are thinking about brining a Samoyed into your home,
keep in mind this breed can be somewhat stubborn so
patience and scheduled training is essential.
This breed is happy and
well-adjusted, loving to play, again especially with
children. You will also discover the Samoyed being
alert and protective although never aggressive.
Overall, this breed is easy to maintain and a real
pleasure to own.
Size and Color
A Samoyed generally reaches between 21 and 23.5
inches at the withers for a male and between 19 and
21 inches for the female. For weight, the standard
range is between 45 and 65 pounds with the female
being slightly smaller. Considered a medium-sized
breed, the Samoyed is not overly large or small. The
coat of the Samoyed comes in pure white, off-white,
or a yellow/white color, all of them beautiful.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
Due to this breed’s distinct double-layer coat, body
size, and even temperament, it is important that the
Samoyed be put on a diet consisting of the right
nutritional requirements. For starters, we recommend
you choose food that contains nutrient sources that
are similar to what would be found in the dog’s
native environment for easier digestion and
assimilation.
By providing this breed with the proper balance of
protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and
fatty acids, you will have a healthy and happy dog.
Now, you can find top quality commercial food on the
market but choose wisely. Another great option is to
put your Samoyed on a diet of healthy, fresh foods
to include lean meats, fresh fruits, vegetables, and
whole grains with the exception of corn due to high
allergy potential. With this, your dog will avoid
issues such as flakey skin, yeast infections, and
hot spots, among others.
For grooming a Samoyed, remember the dog has a
double layer coat that sheds once in the spring and
again in the fall. The top layer is long and coarse
while the undercoat is much denser and soft. The
nice thing is that while a Samoyed will shed
somewhat during the year, a daily brushing will keep
shedding problems to a minimal. In fact, this
particular breed is great at grooming himself,
making care for you much easier.
Exercise Requirements
The Samoyed loves and needs exercise but prefers to
do it with a family member. The best situation would
be to provide your pet with a large, enclosed yard
where he can roam. Just make sure you use a fence at
least four feet tall to avoid problems with jumping.
This arctic dog is a working breed, meaning they not
only love to exercise and play but they need a role.
For instance, if you want a dog that you can play
fetch with on occasion, then a Samoyed may not work.
Instead, you should work with the Samoyed on mushing,
which is the work they do, associated with sledding.
A great option is to create an exercise program that
provides versatility. For this, daily walks are
great, along with hiking, backpacking, draft work,
by actually hooking a wagon to the dog to pull, and
then of course, a good training course. A happy
Samoyed is one that feels he is contributing so
adjust exercise accordingly.
