Developed centuries ago by the nomadic Samoyed people of Siberia, this beautiful dog was used for herding and guarding reindeer and for sled-hauling. This tough, outdoor worker was also very much a family dog, taking its place in its owner’s tent and enjoying human companionship. These dogs were brought to England in the 1800s and were first seen in the United States around a decade later. Numerous myths and unsubstantiated stories link the Samoyeds to the polar expeditions of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but it appears likely that this breed was included among sled teams taken to the Antarctic during the heyday of polar exploration.

The modern Samoyed retains the sociable and easy-going temperament that made it so valued as part of a nomadic family. Behind the “smiling” expression characteristic of the breed is an affectionate nature and a desire to be friends with everyone. However, the Samoyed retains the watchdog instincts for which it was bred. Although never aggressive, it will bark at anything that arouses its suspicion. This dog craves company and likes to be kept occupied mentally and physically. Intelligent and spirited, a bored or lonely Samoyed will resort to mischief – whether it is digging holes or finding a way to escape through a fence. The breed responds well to thoughtful handling, but training requires patience and persistence on the part of its owner. Daily grooming is essential to keep the Samoyed’s magnificent, stand-out coat in order and maintain its distinctive silvery sheen. Seasonal shedding of the undercoat can be very heavy but, except in very warm conditions, normally occurs only once a year.

The Breed History

In ancient times, the early ancestral dogs of the Samoyed breed likely moved with migrating tribes from Iran through Mongolia to the Northwestern Siberian tundra. There they helped the Samoyede people in many ways, and were welcomed as family members into their nomadic dwellings. They were first brought to England in the late nineteenth century. The first dog was registered with AKC in1906.

Physical Characteristics

Height at Withers:
Female 19-21” (48-53 cm)
Male 21-23.5” (53-60 cm)

Weight: 50-65 lb (23-29.5 kg). 

Coat: The double coat is profuse, heavy and very resistant to the elements. Males have a particularly well-developed lion’s type ruff. The undercoat is soft, short and wooly while outer hairs are straight, stand out from the body and are glistening silvery-white. Some dogs have a creamy or biscuit color. 

Longevity: 12 years

Recognized Behavior Issues and Traits

Reported breed characteristics include: Loyal guardian of home and family, not argumentative with other dogs generally, require lots of exercise, playful, curious, high grooming needs, tend to pull on leash; need early obedience training, gentle and intelligent but with an independent streak. Good with children. Need close human companionship, tolerate weather extremes well, particularly the cold. If not mentally or physically active and challenged, or given adequate time with family, they may become destructive. They have a high pitched bark.