Samoyeds are beautiful dogs. But with beauty comes responsibility as the decision to acquire Samoyeds require the acceptance of the whole family. It is important that you do research about Samoyeds as well as ask owners and breeders of Samoyeds.
What are Samoyeds?
Samoyeds acquired its name from the Samoyedic Siberian people. These people were reindeer herders who are nomadic. They specifically bred these white fluffy dogs to help pull sleds when their group moved.
Size of Samoyeds
Male Samoyeds usually weigh anywhere from 23 to 30 kilograms. Meanwhile, females weigh approximately 17 to 25 kilograms. The height of male Samoyeds is 21 to 23.5 inches at the shoulder. Meanwhile, the height of females range from 19 to 21 inches.
What are the color of their eyes?
The eyes of Samoyeds are either brown or black and are shaped like almonds. Meanwhile, the ears of Samoyeds are covered with thick fur. They are also triangular in shape and usually erect. Usually, these dogs are white but they could also have a brown and dark tint.
How about their tails?
The tails of Samoyeds are unique. Similar to the Alaskan Malamute, their tail is curled over the dogs back. Tails of authentic Samoyeds are not tightly curled or held similar to a flag. Essentially, it must be carried over to the back and lying to one side.
During cold weather, Samoyeds might sleep with their own tails laid over their noses in order to offer them added warmth. Usually, when Samoyeds are at ease and relaxed, they allow their tails to fall. When their tails return to a curl, they are usually more alert.
How about their coat?
Samoyeds have a double layer dense coat. Their topcoat consists of a coarse, long and straight guard hairs which are white in appearance but actually have a silver-colored tint. This layer allows the undercoat to be relatively free from debris and clean.
Their undercoat is a short, dense fur that allows Samoyeds to be warm. This undercoat is shed usually once or two times per year. This process is seasonal and is usually called blowing coat. The standard appearance of Samoyeds combines white and biscuit coloring. Male Samoyeds have ruffs which are larger compared to females.
Temperament
Samoyeds are good-natured and love being with people. Their breed is people and family-oriented. They love spending time with people inside the home or wherever there are people present.
It is easy to be friends with Samoyeds. Take note that Samoyeds require attention as boredom causes them to act out and experience behavioral problems. These dogs are ideal for children. Samoyeds are highly intelligent that at times, their uniqueness is interpreted as stubbornness. This breed are capable of making their own decisions. The most excellent way to train Samoyeds is through patience and consistency.
Samoyeds are highly vocal dogs who will easily sing or bark. A few of them are chewers and diggers. They are essentially happy and lively dogs. They are great with kids and prefer stomping in the yard specially during the winter.
Samoyeds prefer to bark when announcing visitors. However, they are not capable of being guard dogs. Once a visitor arrives, they will highly likely cozy up to guests and request for a rub down. However, they are great in families and usually favor one person over another. They are great companions for those who prefer to be outdoors. Samoyeds are great companions for hiking in the woods. They are also capable of keeping people warm when out on a camping trip. However, they are quite difficult to train.
Elegance
Samoyeds look naturally elegant. They possess compact muscles which makes them look dignified. They are the sole Nordic breed which lived inside reindeer tents with humans who kept them warm. Samoyeds could live within packs or on their own. The breed is double-coated and possesses a soft undercoat. Believe it or not, their elegance comes with a price since they require at least an hour of grooming each week.
Exercise
Samoyeds needs sufficient exercise. They prefer to be active yet they are not high strung. They are able to exercise outdoors or indoors. They need to be in a fenced secured yard where they could play freely and run. They could also live in apartments as long as owners are willing to take them out and allow them to run, potty adequately and exercise.
Health
Samoyeds have health problems similar to any breed. Usually, they experience eye problems and hip dysplasia.
The kind of food your Samoyed dog requires will largely depend on their size, weight and age. You might want to consult with your Veterinarian, breeder and owners for advice.
It is important that Samoyeds have continuous access to fresh water for drinking. Vaccinations provided to Samoyed dogs must be timely and current. If you reside in areas where parasites are present, discuss with your Veterinarian the methods to prevent fleas and ticks.