| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
| Energy level |
Contents
The Samoyed has its origins in the coldest and remote regions of Russia. It is truly a miniature polar bear.
Today we will describe a dog breed that comes from the Far North or Nordic countries. We are referring to the Samoyed Dog, a truly unmistakable dog to our eyes, worthy of admiration and all of our affection.
The Samoyed Dog stands out among the other dog breeds because it looks like a sweet miniature polar bear. It is also famous because of its “Samoyed’s smile”: a cute joyful expression on its lips, which makes this beautiful dog simply adorable; it is hard not to be happy when a Samoyed is around.
In this article we will find a general description of its physical characteristics and its temperament; from its Scandinavian origins to its cute smile. We will also talk about its nature and its price.
Samoyed Dog: Origins
But first things first; the history of the Samoyed Dog starts in the remote coldest regions of Russia, where only reindeer herders used to live. Its ancestors are from the Arctic. Some people think that this dog breed is originally from Siberia!
Although it is hard to find official confirmation, it is said that the first to raise this dog breed was a Samoyedic-speaking people (Somoyedes were an ethnic people from Siberia), native of the northern arctic Russia, also called Tundra Nenets. Supposedly, this is where the dog’s name comes from. However, after the October Revolution (the second part of the Russian revolution) this wonderful dog breed was close to disappearing.
Luckily, this dog breed was able to start over and find new impulse. It began to be known in Old Europe and in America thanks to Robert Scott, who, during the end of the 19th century, committed to import some Samoyed Dogs to England.
Samoyed Dog: Interesting Facts
It sounds quite strange and curious that nowadays and during most of its history the Samoyed has had the same fur color. The Samoyed Dog has a gorgeous white coat. It could sound strange but originally, when used as a reindeer herder by the Samoyedic people, its coat was mostly black! However since the 19th century onwards, the color of its hair has changed to white or cream. This breed has lived (and continues to do it) a favorable time.
How Was This Dog Breed Used Over Time?
We are talking about a medium-to-large dog breed fit to a shepherd life. It has the abilities and build to be a guardian or shepherd dog, the perfect animal for herders.
But this is not all: originally, the Samoyed Dog was used as a hunting and sledge dog. Keep in mind that these dogs are extremely loyal and warm with their owner. The Samoyed often slept with its family, it was an excellent source of heat during cold nights. There are no doubts that its furry coat and cuddles can be amazing blankets!
Over time the Samoyed Dog became a companion dog; it is obedient and well-mannered without being nosy or needy.
Samoyed Dog: Physical Characteristics
As we said before, it looks like a miniature polar bear; Now let’s analyze its build in detail. It belongs to the medium-sized dogs group; it is generally a robust and strong dog. The Samoyed Dog has a height of 23 inches (60 cm) at its withers and weighs around 44 to 66 lb. (20-30 kg).
Its color may vary between the following ones:
- White,
- Biscuit White, and
- Cream.
Despite looking big and voluminous, we find an elegant, attractive and extremely sweet dog. It has mostly dark-brown eyes, but darker shades close to black are also possible in this dog breed. It has a medium-sized nose.
Now let’s talk about its beautiful and fluffy hair: It has a bulky coat which allows it to withstand low temperatures, without suffering too much from Russian frosts. The Samoyed Dog has fur in its legs that resemble boots which let it move around the snow easily. Also, the male has a small mane around the neck; females have shorter hair.
These hair “reinforcements” are also present in their tails. The tail is fluffy and furry as well; it hangs between the legs comfortably when the dog is relaxed, but when it is happy, paying attention, or in movement, the tail curves over its back, forming a little rainbow.
Samoyed Dog: Temperament
We have arrived at the character of this Russian dog. It is said that this Russian bear is grumpy, but this is probably a misconception; it is a strong dog but has a well-balanced temperament due to its harsh life conditions in the Far North. This dog breed has its own special personality;it does not “waste time” with too much conversation or jokes.
When it finally “breaks the ice”, the Samoyed Dog is a sociable and loyal dog; it is obedient and can be trained easily. It is not too docile, since it has its own personality and temperament. However, it can struggle a little at first to get along with strangers; just give it some time.
This dog breed is really affectionate with its family, so it is the perfect companion for children and other dogs, although there are always exceptions, of course.
As we mentioned before, it has a Nordic personality, so unlike other dog breeds, it can be a little stubborn at first. But knowing how to treat is enough to develop a strong bond with this pup.
The Samoyed Dog has a strong bond with its owner. As we previously stated, this dog breed used to live in hostile environments, surrounded by few people providing a warm “support” during cold Siberian nights. So it is safe to say that it developed a unique and protective bond with its owner and family.
Samoyed Dog: Health
The Samoyed Dog is a working dog that loves to do tasks, so a sedentary life is not suitable for this breed. However, it can totally get used to a more quiet and relaxed life, but this will be against its natural behavior.
Therefore, it is advised to have a backyard where your four-legged friend can play and exercise. If you do not have a house with a garden, you should take your dog to the park so he can run freely, so it does not get bored or lazy.
In this sense, are there any particular indications associated with its correct development? No. We may say that in general it is a healthy dog breed. You should always take your dog to the vet to routine checks because the Samoyed dog tends to develop some hereditary conditions.
You have to take extra care of your dog’s eyes; this breed could suffer from cataracts or retinal dysplasia. As to its diet, the Samoyed Dog is not prone to obesity, but you should keep in mind that during adulthood it could tend to gain weight and this will increase the chance of suffering from diabetes.
Samoyed Dog: Feeding
Your Samoyed dog should have a well-balanced diet, not only for its body figure, but also to keep its coat lustrous and shiny. Like any Nordic dog breed it needs a high content of protein in its meals; and also nutrients to keep your friend strong and beautiful.
Luckily, its coat is dustproof, so the Samoyed Dog’s natural white coat does not require constant care; only regular brushing and shampooing.
Apart from that, all you have to do is enjoy this breed’s unique face. This white giant seems to smile to the world; it may also bring about calmness and harmony to your home with its balanced and active character.
Samoyed Dog: Puppies For Sale, and Price
How much can a healthy and certified Samoyed dog cost? Let’s say that a perfectly healthy pup may cost 1200 dollars or 1100 English pounds; it may start at no less than 900 dollars or 800 English pounds.
Before embarking on the adventure of finding your furry friend, remember it is a very sturdy and long-lived dog. If you happen to be lucky enough to find it, the ideal Samoyed dog for you will be totally worth it.
Now that all the main aspects have been cleared, you can go now and find your new four-legged friend, who is surely waiting for you.
You may be interested in reading another article related to other dog breeds such as:
- Belgian Shepherd
- Afghan Hound
- Dogo Argentino
- English Cocker Spaniel
- Australian Shepherd
- Border Collie
- Schnauzer
- English Setter
