Understanding Samoyed Temperament

The Samoyed is a dog breed native to Western Siberia and Northwestern Russia, bred originally to help reindeer herders with herding and pull sleds along for the nomads. If you are interested in getting one, it would be best if you understood fully first what Samoyed temperament is like so you’ll know what to expect when you finally get your hands on one.

Some of the points you should consider about Samoyed temperament include:

• Samoyeds are happy dogs. They have a perpetual expression of happiness on their faces that’s why they are referred to as “smiley dogs” or “Sammy smile.”
• Samoyeds are friendly. They will be so easy-going and friendly that they will make really lousy guard dogs because they may befriend even strangers. However, they do have a tendency to bark so they will do good as watch dogs because they will alert you every time someone comes near them.
• Samoyeds are good with children. Because they are naturally gentle and friendly, they are good for families with children, playing with the little ones and easily adapting to family life. They are herd dogs though so don’t be surprised when they try to herd your children from time to time.
• Samoyeds get along with others well. This Samoyed temperament makes them easy to mix in with other animals, including cats and other non-canine pets, and they also make good companions for other dogs as well. While friendly, don’t forget that they still have natural instincts to hunt so do keep them away from much smaller animals than they are.
• Samoyeds are intelligent. They respond well to firm and patient training, which is ideally done while they are young. They appreciate it as well if their leader (that’s you) is confident and consistent so they won’t lapse into some behavior issues like obsessive barking. Your leadership may also be in question if a Samoyed has no problem pulling on you when being walked on a leash. Remember, they are sled dogs originally. They are bred to have the strength to pull. You will have to learn how to curb their tendencies to pull.

Samoyed temperament is just one of the many things you will have to understand about a Samoyed if you want to make the most out of getting one. Keep in mind that getting a dog is a responsibility and understanding as much as you can about the dog you are getting is a good way to be responsible since this will equip you with what you need to care for your dog.