Samoyedskaya, Bjelkier, Samoiedskaya Sobaka, Nenetskaya Laika, Smiley, Sammy
Overview
The Samoyed combines strength, agility, dignity and grace in a general spitz outline. Slightly longer than it is tall, it is nonetheless compact. It has a strong, muscular body that is able to combine power, speed, agility and endurance. It has a quick, agile stride with good reach and drive. Its double coat is heavy and weather resistant. The undercoat is soft and thick, whereas the outer coat is straight and harsh, standing straight out from the body, and glistening with a silver sheen. Its expression is animated, with the characteristic "Samoyed smile" created by the upturned corners of its mouth.
Gentle and playful, the Samoyed makes a good companion for a child or person of any age. It is a closely bonded family dog. It is amiable with strangers, other pets and usually, other dogs. It is calm indoors, but this clever, sometimes mischievous breed needs daily physical and mental exercise. If allowed to become bored, it will dig and bark. It is independent and often stubborn, but it is willing to please and is responsive to its owner's wishes. It may tend to herd children.
| Size | Medium |
| Height | Male: 21-23.5 inches (53-60 cm)Female: 19-21 inches (48-53 cm) |
| Weight | Male: 45-65 pounds (20.5-30 kg)Female: 35-50 pounds (16-20.5 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Colors | Biscuit Cream White White & Biscuit |
| Origin | Russia |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Samoyed will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Its heavy coat makes this dogs unsuited to life in very hot climates. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Needs a reasonable amount of exercise, including a daily walk or jog. Take it easy during warm weather because the woolly undercoat inhibits loss of the heat built up during exercise. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: Training can be a challenge and needs to start early. Variety in the drills is key, as Samoyeds can get bored if asked to do the same task over and over and refuse to do anything. Screaming, shouting or hitting will not get the dog's respect, in fact it will produce the opposite effect. The dog will need to see you as both an authority figure and a friend. It must be trained to come to you when very young. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: Grooming should be performed often to keep the dog's coat in good shape. Professional groomers can be sought after for assistance. Occasional trimming or stripping needed. |
| Shedding |
Constant and Seasonal Shedding: Brush the Samoyed’s coat at least once a week to prevent or remove mats and tangles and remove dead hairs that will otherwise wind up on your floor, furniture, and clothing. Expect to brush it daily during seasonal shedding periods. You’ll need a slicker brush, pin brush and metal Greyhound comb. Bathe the Sammie about every three months. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |