Samoyed Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Samoyed is a fluffy, white Arctic dog with a famous upturned mouth that looks like a smile. It was bred by the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia to herd reindeer, pull sleds and keep their families warm, and it is friendly, social and talkative.

Origins and appearance

The breed is named for the Samoyedic peoples and was used for herding and hauling. Samoyeds are medium-sized and sturdy, with a wedge-shaped head, small erect ears, dark almond-shaped eyes, a thick, plush double coat in white, cream or biscuit and a plumed tail curled over the back.

Temperament

They are friendly, gentle and sociable. They are usually good with children and other pets. They love people and dislike being alone. They are talkative and can bark a lot. They are intelligent and can be stubborn.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks, play and cold-weather outings. They enjoy pulling sports and hiking. Mental work matters. They need secure fencing, since many dig and wander.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Teach quiet cues early. Do not expect a perfect recall. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing most days, with a major blowout once or twice a year. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hereditary eye conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts
• Heart disease. See heart murmurs in dogs
• Diabetes. See diabetes in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• X-linked hereditary nephropathy, a kidney condition in some lines

Living with a Samoyed

They suit active, social owners with time to groom. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to hot climates, long hours alone or owners wanting a quiet dog.

A typical day

A Samoyed wants a morning walk, brushing, play, a rest and an evening outing. Many follow their owners from room to room.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy, bouncy and curious. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools or a groomer and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They love cold weather but overheat easily. Exercise early or late in warm weather and provide shade, water and cool resting places. They travel well with a secure crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include shaving the coat, skipping grooming, leaving the dog alone and ignoring barking.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye, heart and kidney screening and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

The Sammy smile

The upturned corners of the mouth are thought to prevent drooling and icicles forming in cold weather, though the purpose is hard to confirm. Whatever the cause, the expression gives the breed a friendly look.

White coat, bright personality

The white coat is surprisingly clean, because dirt often dries and falls out. It still needs regular brushing to prevent mats, and a bath every month or two may be enough for many dogs.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or outing with play.
• Brushing, daily during shedding seasons.
• Training and quiet-cue practice.
• Ear checks and teeth brushing.
• Company and a cool place to rest.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Samoyed suits social, active owners who want a friendly, fluffy dog and accept shedding, grooming and chatter. It may not suit hot climates or those away much of the day. For a sled dog, see the Siberian Husky.

The takeaway

Samoyeds are friendly, fluffy and talkative, and they need grooming, exercise and company.