Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle presents the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for a four-legged friend that’s low on dander and easy on your allergies, find out everything you need to know about the smiling Samoyed.
Playful temperament- Great companion dogs
- Long lifespan
- Hypoallergenic
- Good with kids
Overview
Sam, Sammy or Smiley, the Samoyed is known to have many nicknames and with a smile that can light up any room, you can bet “Grumpy” is never one of them. Among many cool-weather jobs, the Samoyed was born to herd and protect reindeer but its primary function was to keep adults and children warm in the most freezing of temperatures. A natural-born cuddle bug, the Samoyed loves nothing more than snuggling up to his human counterparts.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Working
- UKC group: Northern Breed
- Average lifespan: 12 – 14 years
- Average size: 35 – 70 pounds
- Coat appearance: Long, thick, soft
- Coloration: White
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Other identifiers: Medium-sized build; pricked ears; fluffy, white double coat; corners of mouth turn up and produce a “smiling” appearance
- Possible alterations: None
Is this breed right for you?
If you live in a cold climate and are looking for a warm and cuddly fur-friend that will stay by your side, then the Samoyed is right for you. With appropriate exercise, this breed does well in most dwellings, big or small. Big families with lots of children will love the sweet temperament of the kind and smiling Sammy. However, neat freaks should steer clear of this breed as heavy shedding comes with the territory. If you don’t mind the shedding, the odorless and hypoallergenic properties of the Samoyed’s magnificent coat provide an excellent source of warmth for cold winter days. Samoyeds tend to be prone to diabetes and hip dysplasia, among other minor health issues. Regular exercise and routine vet checkups are a must.
A dream day in the life of a Samoyed
Playing in snow-covered fields with kids and adults, pulling sleds and keeping his human family warm is all in a day’s work for the Samoyed. This breed has a heart of gold and his true purpose in life is to simply be loved and help keep you warm with snuggles. As long as there are plenty of humans for the Samoyed to play with, this breed is a happy camper. Due to overheating tendencies, it’s best to keep the Samoyed clear of warm-weather climates.
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