Dog breed · Working
Samoyed
The smiling sled dog of the Samoyedic peoples: sociable, vocal and extremely fluffy.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- Siberia
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 16–30 kg (35–66 lb)
- Height
- 48–60 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Profuse white double coat
- Temperament
- FriendlyPlayfulTalkativeGentle
History
Lived alongside the Nenets people herding reindeer, hauling sledges and sleeping with families for warmth.
Appearance
White or biscuit, with a curled tail and the upturned 'Sammy smile'.
Exercise and activity
Ninety minutes daily; the breed loves pulling and cold-weather hiking.
Care and grooming
Brush three or more times weekly and daily during moult; never shave the coat.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy
- Diabetes mellitus
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Subvalvular aortic stenosis
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Samoyed
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Ninety minutes daily; the breed loves pulling and cold-weather hiking. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hip dysplasia, Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy, Diabetes mellitus, Progressive retinal atrophy, Subvalvular aortic stenosis), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice