Key facts at a glance:
- FCI: Group 5, Section 1, Standard No. 212 (without working test)
- Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years
- Origin: Russia (Siberia)
- Size: males 54-60 cm / females 50-56 cm
- Weight: Males 20-30 kg / females 17-25 kg
- Colours: white, white and beige, cream
- Character: open, lively, friendly, well-balanced, willing to run
Origin and history of the Samoyed
The Samoyed dog is one of the oldest dog breeds. His ancestors accompanied the indigenous peoples of Siberia several thousand years ago. They were used, among other things, to pull sleds, as hunting companions and to guard their herds.
The importance of the Samoyed to their owners used to be so great that they even referred to them as sacred dogs.
The first Samoyed dogs did not arrive in Western Europe until the end of the 19th century, so that targeted breeding of the breed only began from this point in time. The first general breed standard was established in 1909. It was finally recognized by the FCI in 1959.
Over the past 100 years, the Samoyed has lost much of the primitiveness of its Siberian ancestors due to increased attention to outward appearance. Nevertheless, he is still an unspoilt dog.
Almost 80 puppies are born in Germany every year. The German Club for Nordic Dogs is responsible for looking after the breed.
Description of the Samoyed
The average life expectancy of the Samoyed is 12 to 13 years, which is normal for a dog of his size.
The ideal height at the withers is given as 57 centimeters for males and 53 centimeters for females, with the breed standard allowing a deviation of up to three centimeters in either direction.
The weight of male specimens ranges from 20 to 30 kilos. Female animals usually weigh 17 to 25 kilos.
The physique of the Samoyed is compact yet lithe. Its general appearance is said to convey suppleness, strength and endurance. The Samoyed dog often carries the high-set tail over the back or bent to the side. If possible, it should only hang down in the rest position.
A distinctive feature of the Samoyed is the smiling facial expression created by the combination of its eye position and the curled lips.
The fur of medium-sized dogs is particularly thick and lush. It consists of a dense undercoat to protect against the cold and a slightly longer top coat. According to the breed standard, it can be either pure white, cream, or white and fawn.
Nature of the Samoyed
The Samoyed is extremely people-oriented. He is known to be affectionate and gentle, making him a loyal member of the family. However, he tends to have his own way from time to time. Therefore, as the owner, you should not expect blind obedience or subservience from your Samoyed.
There is hardly any excessive protective instinct in this breed, which is why it is only conditionally suitable for use as a guard dog. According to the breed standard, this also applies to the hunting instinct. From time to time, however, it can certainly get through, so keepers should be prepared.
Possible uses for the Samoyed
The Samoyed is one of the classic sled dogs. Accordingly, he has a high urge to move and enormous endurance. Anyone who decides to keep the breed that loves to work should therefore make sure that they have enough employment.
Apart from that, keeping them as a family dog does not normally pose a problem. Because the Samoyed is extremely fond of children and usually gets along well with other pets.
Possible sporting activities for the Samoyed are not limited to sled dog races, for which huskies or malamutes are usually preferred anyway.
Because alternatively, other draft dog sports, such as dog scooting, are a good opportunity for the Samoyed to work out. Training to become a rescue dog is also an option.
Samoyed diseases
The ancestors of the Samoyed dog were very robust and hardy animals. To some extent, this is still true today. However, in the course of targeted breeding, various hereditary diseases have developed, for which there is an increased risk in the Samoyed today.
In particular, the following diseases typical of the breed can occur:
- diabetes
- Genetic nephritis
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Shortened limbs in combination with malformations of the eyes
- Pulmonary stenosis (arrhythmia and shortness of breath)
If you want to protect yourself from high veterinary costs, you should take out dog health insurance for your Samoyed as early as possible.
The Samoyed’s coat requires surprisingly little grooming
In view of the lush coat of hair, it is reasonable to think that the Samoyed’s coat needs extensive brushing and grooming every day. In practice, however, this turns out to be a misconception.
Because the grooming of the Samoyed is quite uncomplicated. In addition, he loses surprisingly little hair outside of the moult, which keeps the cleaning effort in his own four walls within limits.