Dog breed · Working
Samoyed
The smiling sled dog of the Samoyedic peoples: sociable, vocal and extremely fluffy.
Large12–14 yearsSiberiaNeeds more space
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