The Samoyed Dog – The “Sammy Smile”
The Samoyed Dog proved to be a great companion to the Siberian Samoyed people. However, his first jobs were to hunting, sledge-hauling, and reindeer-herding. Today they do tracking, hiking, and warming their owners by sleeping on top of them at night.
Origins
The Samoyed people developed this dog originally to hunt, haul sledges, and herd reindeer. They developed such close bond with the dogs that they would invite them in at the end of the day. This could explain the dog´s sense of loyalty and trust.
They first came out of Siberia at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th in expeditions. These dogs endured harsh conditions where only the strongest one survived.
Today, these dogs live well adapted to conditions in other places around the world. The AKC officially recognized the breed in 1906.
Physical characteristics
The most important element in a working dog such as the Samoyed dog is the coat. This has to be double, thick, heavy, and weather-resistant. His body is a combination of strength and grace.
Males can reach a height of 21 to 23.5 inches and females can be 19 to 21 inches tall. They both can weigh between 50 and 60 pounds.
Personality
The Samoyed dog is gentle, loyal, and intelligent. He loves to be a part of family activities and is friendly and affectionate with everyone, including children.
His alertness and loyalty make him a good watchdog. This dog does not enjoy being left alone and will always seek company.
Caring for a Samoyed Dog
If you will place a Samoyed dog outdoors, make sure the yard is fenced. He still has the hunter instinct and will chase any small animal that he perceives as prey. Remember that this is a working dog so he needs space to romp and run. He is not suited for apartment or condo life.
Keep him always physically and mentally challenged. A bored Samoyed is a destructive one. When taking him outside, always carry him on a leash. If he sees a small scurrying animal, he will not resist his instincts to follow it.
His coat requires constant grooming and care. If you want to keep his coat healthy and shiny, you will need to invest time and resources.
Training
This is an intelligent dog so you should not have much problem with him obeying commands. One important step in training is socialization. Have a firm and consistent hand and you will have a well-rounded large dog.
Fun Facts
- He is named after the Samoyed people in Siberia. This is a nomadic tribe that extends from Iran to the stretches of the tundra to the Yenisei River.
- Roald Amundsen took Samoyed dogs on his quest to conquer the South Pole in 1911.
- This dog does not like to be sitting down. Keep him busy all the time.