About the Samoyed Dog Breed

The Samoyed breed originated in Siberia, where the dogs herded reindeer and accompanied their masters on hunting trips. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Samoyed in the working breed class of dogs in 1906.

  1. Size

    • Male Samoyeds usually stand 21 to 23.5 inches in height at the shoulders, while females are 19 to 21 inches, reports the Dog Breed Info Center website. A full-grown male averages 45 to 65 pounds, and females weigh an average of 35 to 50 pounds.

    Fur

    • A Samoyed's fur is usually white, cream and white, or beige. Typically, the coat is long and full with a ruff of fur around the neck.

    Appearance

    • A samoyed's ears usually have a triangular shape and stand straight upward rather than drooping. The breed has a large bushy tail that curls upward with the tip pointing toward the dog's head.

    Temperament

    • Samoyeds are gentle dogs and good with children and other pets, including cats, reports Dog Breed Info Center. The breed is rarely aggressive or hyperactive and can live in an apartment or small home, provided the dog receives enough exercise outdoors.

    Lifespan

    • Samoyeds live an average of 10 to 12 years, explains Dog Breed Info Center.