Samoyeds are a breed of working dog originally from Siberia, where they were used to herd reindeer, hunt, and haul sleds.
They are known for their thick, fluffy white coats, which help them stay warm in the cold weather.
Samoyeds are friendly and affectionate dogs, and they love to be around people.
In fact, they are sometimes referred to as “smiling Sammies” because of their perpetually happy expressions.
Despite their friendly nature, Samoyeds can be quite independent and stubborn, which can make them a challenge to train.
Samoyeds are known for their vocalizations, including barking, howling, and even singing.
They have a strong prey drive and may not be the best fit for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits.
Samoyeds are intelligent and love to learn new things, which makes them well-suited for dog sports like agility and obedience.
They are also often used as therapy dogs because of their friendly and gentle nature.
Samoyeds are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and a condition called Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy, which affects their kidneys.
Despite these health concerns, Samoyeds are generally a healthy and long-lived breed, with an average lifespan of 12-14 years.
Samoyeds are considered a “moderately active” breed, meaning they need regular exercise but are not as high-energy as some other breeds.
They have a dense double coat that sheds heavily twice a year, which can be a challenge for owners who don’t enjoy grooming.
Samoyeds are not hypoallergenic and can be a poor choice for people with allergies.
They are often used as sled dogs in races like the Iditarod and the Yukon Quest.
In the early 20th century, Samoyeds were used as sled dogs by Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach the South Pole.
The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1906.
Samoyeds are social dogs and do best when they have plenty of opportunities to interact with people and other dogs.
They are a versatile breed and can adapt to many different living situations, from apartments to large houses with plenty of land to roam.
Finally, Samoyeds are known for their unique “Sammy smile,” which is created by the way their eyes curve upwards at the corners of their mouth, giving them a perpetually happy expression.
