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Description
The Samoyed, also referred to as Samoyedskaya or simply Sammy, is a breed of medium-sized compact, muscular dog that originated in Northwest Russia and Western Siberia. It belongs to the working breed family which is notable for their excellence at performing various police jobs such as guarding property, sled-pulling, and or water-rescuing. Samoyed dogs have been bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds. Their thick, profuse double coat is soft and short underneath, and harsh and straight outside. Ruffs frame their neck and shoulders. Coat colors usually come in pure white, yellow, biscuit, and cream. Some whites have silver tips.
Height and Weight
The male members of the Samoyed breed normally stand a height of 21 to 23 ½ in at the withers, and weigh about 45 to 65 lbs. Bitches, on the other hand, are slightly smaller with a typical height of 19 to 21 in, and a weight of 35 to 50 lbs.
Temperament
Samoyeds, in general, are gentle, easy-going, and playful dogs. They are friendly and very devoted toward their owners. The breed tends to love everyone, even to intruders, thereby making them rarely suitable to become watchdogs. Their bark, nonetheless, can still alert owners to the presence of unfamiliar subjects. Sammies are highly adaptable to family life, and are capable of bonding well with children. They are very intelligent, and tend to respond well to firm yet gentle training. The breed basically needs a handler who can show confident and consistent leadership approach. Proper training and ample exercise is highly recommended to keep these dogs stable-minded. Additionally, Sammy pets are accustomed to work in teams, and can demonstrate admirable qualities. They are lively, good-natured, and sociable. The breed can relate well with other household animals especially when they are socialized early.
Grooming
Samoyeds require extensive grooming to keep them looking good. They shed heavily on particular seasons, and their fluffy coat needs to be brushed frequently.
Health Concerns
Samoyed dogs are commonly prone to a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin allergy, progressive retinal atrophy, and diabetes. The breed, however, has an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.
Best Environment
Members of the Samoyed breed will do fine in living in an apartment provided that they get to receive ample exercise. They are highly active indoors, and would perform best with access to, at least, a small, safe yard. Because of the breed’s heavy double coat, Sammies are not suitable to dwell in areas with extremely hot climates.
