What Are the Characteristics of a Samoyed?

Of the working group as designated by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and the northern breeds as classified by the United Kennel Club (UKC), the Samoyed dog was developed by the Samoyede people of Siberia for hunting, herding their reindeer and dog-sledding. The AKC recognized the Samoyed as a breed in 1906, fairly soon after the Samoyed had been first brought to the United States.

  1. Appearance

    • A Samoyed dog should be white, cream, biscuit-colored or a combination of white and biscuit with black lips that seem to "smile" in the corners, dark eyes and usually a dark nose. Since the Samoyed was developed in the cold climate of Siberia, the dog's coat should be double-coated, with the undercoat being soft and the top coat consisting of tough guard hairs. Around the neck, the dog should have a ruff where the hair is longer (male dogs will have a more obvious ruff) and the dog's plumed tail should curve up over the back. A Samoyed dog should appear big-boned, but the size of the bone should always be proportionate to the dog's size.

    Measurements

    • A female is 19 to 21 inches tall, and a male is 21 to 23.5 inches tall (all measurements from the ground to the withers, the top of the shoulders). Weights range between 35 and 65 pounds.

    Temperament

    • The Samoyed dog is known for loyalty, gentleness and intelligence, and is considered a good family dog. A Samoyed is also a very active dog, though, and will need a job or activity, such as weight-pulling or agility, to keep the dog from getting into trouble by chasing or chewing things and barking incessantly. A Samoyed may also be a good choice for someone with more than one dog, according to the "Original Dog Bible."