History of the Samoyed Breed The Samoyed is named after the nomadic people who came from central Asia to northwestern Siberia. The dogs were an important part of their nomadic lifestyle, herding the reindeer that was the main source of food for the tribe. These spitz dogs would also tow boats and sledges, hunt bears, and guard their families against predators. Both workers and pets, the dogs slept with the children in order to keep them warm in the cold climate. In the late 1800s, the first Samoyed arrived in England, although these early dogs were not always pure white in color. Queen Alexandria received a Samoyed as a gift, and she bred and promoted the dogs. In fact, modern pedigrees can be traced to the queen’s dogs. In 1906, the first Samoyed came to America; while in other parts of the world, it was becoming a popular sled dog. In the early 1900s, the Samoyed joined a sled team that traveled across Antarctica and reached the South Pole. The friendly nature and stunning beauty of this breed makes it a continued success both as a worker and a companion pet. Size and Appearance of the Samoyed This working dog is the epitome of strength and agility as well as beauty and grace. It is compact and muscular with a body that is longer than it is tall. It has a quick stride and is capable of great speed and endurance. It gets its nickname, “the smiling dog,�?from its upturned mouth and lively expression. Recognized by its thick, white coat with a feathery tail that curls over its back. Its fur is weather-resistant, which enables it to romp or work in the snow for long periods. It has a thick, soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat that stands straight out and has a faint silver shine. Colorings include pure white, white and biscuit and cream. Samoyed Temperament The Samoyed, known as the smiling dog, is intelligent and gentle breed that bonds closely with its family. It is friendly towards other pets and prefers to play with children, although it may tend to herd younger kids. Even though it barks a lot, it is far too friendly to be a watchdog. It is playful even with strangers and never distrustful or shy. The Samoyed is calm indoors, however it can be mischievous if not exercised both physically and mentally. It is intelligent and stubborn and may dig and bark if it grows bored. Even with its willful nature, it remains a loyal breed that wishes to please its owner. Samoyed Recommended Maintenance The Samoyed sheds twice yearly and requires daily brushing during this time. Otherwise, it only needs brushed two to three times each week. It should be bathed only when necessary. This breed is quite active and needs a daily workout in the form of a jog, a long walk, or some free exercise outdoors. It enjoys work and can achieve some of its exercise through work activities, such as pulling or herding. It loves cold weather and can live outdoors in temperate to cold climates, but prefers to live inside with its family. It can do well as an outside pet if it receives plenty of human interaction. This breed is not recommended for hot climates because of its thick coat. The Samoyed is difficult to train, however training is necessary as it can be headstrong if bored. Begin training at an early age with a consistent and gentle hand. Pups may ignore commands when they are uninterested or if treated harshly. Samoyed Health �?Life span: 10 �?12 years
�?Major concerns: CHD
�?Minor concerns: gastric torsion
�?Occasionally seen: PRA
�?Suggested tests: hip, (eye)
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