Description

The Samoyed’s defining traits are their friendly smile and super thick white coats. There is a sociable nature about them that spurs a desire to be around people at all times. Even strangers will be greeted happily, meaning Samoyeds are particularly bad guard dogs. Samoyeds are intelligent working dogs whose heritage dates back to Siberia where they would pull sleds, herd, hunt, and protect their people from danger. Leaving these dogs alone for too long is sure to make them miserable, as they are prone to separation anxiety. Keep them busy with toys, exercise, and training. They tend to bark a lot and love to express how they are feeling. As you may have guessed, grooming is absolutely necessary and owners must be diligent brushers.

Lifestyle and Living Environment

Samoyeds above all need space to run around and play. It's important to keep them busy or they will become bored and begin to dig holes or chew destructively. Their hunting instincts are still very strong so keep them in a fenced yard or on a leash when out and about in public. Even the most well-trained Samoyed can go after a possum or bird and run off. They are natural fits for cold climates because of their heritage and love to play in the snow, and so it comes as little surprise that they are quite sensitive to heat. During the summer help them cool down by using an air conditioner or fan.

Common Health Issues

Glaucoma, Hip Dysplasia, Samoyed Hereditary Ghlomerulopathy, Patellar Luxation, Hypothyroidism, Diabetes Mellitus, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis, Cancer, Portosystemic Shunts (a.k.a. Liver Shunts).