Samoyed Dog - Temperament, Weight, Puppies, Diet, Price
The Samoyed is considered the oldest dog breed kept by humans. The dogs are valued among owner mostly because of their characteristic appearance and smile. This medium-sized dog is a perfect companion for anyone. What is its personality? Does it get along with other animals? Find out.
What are the origins of the Samoyed dogs?
The Samoyed is a very well-documented breed. These dogs were first mentioned in northern Russia and Siberia. They were used as hunting and draft animals – for dog sledges. People also used them for guarding reindeer herds.
Dogs of this breed initially had three colors:
- black,
- white,
- brown.
Over the years, the population of Samoyed dogs with dark coats diminished, and nowadays, they are rare. The breed standard has been regulated in 1909.
What does the Samoyed dog look like?
In accordance with the FCI classification, the Samoyed is a spitz-type ancient breed of Nordic origins, a sled dog. The animal is typically from 57 to 60 centimeters tall – females are slightly smaller, from 53 to 56 centimeters at withers. The dog’s weight varies between 15 and 30 kilograms, depending on whether it’s a male or a female dog. Note that miniature Samoyeds don’t exist.
The most important features of the breed:
- strong head,
- small triangular ears,
- dark, wide set eyes,
- distinct withers,
- very fluffy tail.
Because of its lush hair, the Samoyed resembles a teddy bear. But the layer of soft coat, which gives him the characteristic look, hides strong muscles. Keep in mind these dogs were used for hunting and pulling sleds, and for this reason, they are very strong.
The Samoyed and its temperament
When picking a dog, most reasonable people pay attention to the animal’s character. The Samoyed dog is a perfect companion for almost everyone. These dogs are quite gentle and friendly towards their owners. They have a protective instinct, which might make them a bit jealous. But they aren’t aggressive, and their hunting instinct is very weakly developed.
A tendency to being loud is one of the most mentioned flaw of this breed.
Who is the Samoyed dog for?
The Samoyed is a dog which requires fair treatment and avoiding raising one’s voice. A poorly treated puppy might become wary and difficult to tame. Regardless, dogs of this breed are gentle and eager to play. Adult Samoyeds are very patients and get strongly attached to their family. They aren’t good guard dogs, as they are kind and friendly towards humans.
The Samoyed is a good breed both for loners, and families with children. These dogs have a lot of energy, and they love releasing it through playing.
Do Samoyeds get along with other pets?
The Samoyed is a dog that can get along with any animal that has been at home prior to them. Also, the dog usually doesn’t have any issues with other animals met on walks. It’s because of its positive character and mild personality. Because of this, the owner has to control the dog – not all animals are so friendly and react so positively.
Do Samoyeds have to be trained?
At first, the Samoyed seems a stubborn dog. But don’t give up training, and be consistent. If trained well with the appropriate means, the dog will become obedient and learn some tricks.
Does the Samoyed require grooming?
Grooming is relatively easy – the dog’s fur simply needs to be brushed regularly. Repeat this once or twice per week, and even every few days when the dog’s shedding intensely.
Make sure to protect the dog from pests in summer. Its characteristic fluffy hair makes it difficult to locate e.g., ticks.
Special eye- and ear-care products are important as well. Thanks to them, you can avoid infections and spare the dog unnecessary suffering.
Samoyeds and special diet
Feeding the dog should not cause any major problems. Make sure to follow the suggestions from experts and pick food designed for medium dogs of moderate exercise levels (unless the dog has a lot of outdoor training). The meals should be a mixture of wet and dry food.
Feed the dog with 2 to 3 meals per day. Make sure they have enough calories and match the animal’s lifestyle. This way, you can avoid overfeeding and obesity.
Samoyed – the most common diseases
The Samoyed has a strong immune system, but its health should be controlled regardless. Puppies might develop muscular dystrophy, which begins when they are 6 months old. Afterwards, the animal might have difficulties with mobility.
Hypertonia is another potential genetic disorder which can be recognized in puppies. It appears as stiff movements, which is caused by inability to bend joints.
Dogs of this breed might also suffer from distichiasis. A dog afflicted with this condition has additional lashes, which might cause irritation. That’s why cleaning the dog’s eyes is so important.
How long do Samoyeds live?
Samoyeds can live even 15 years. It’s an average lifespan, which is a result of many factors – mostly by diet and any past or present diseases.
Samoyed price – how much does the dog cost?
If you decided to buy a Samoyed, be prepared to spend a lot of money. A purebred pedigree dog costs from $1,000. Dogs with an interesting coat, from an award-winning breeder and with a very good pedigree cost much more. Prices start at $3,000 for a puppy.
📍 What does the Samoyed look like?
The Samoyed is a dog of strong muscles, a stout body build and a large head. A peculiar “smile” is a characteristic feature of this breed. Thanks to the fluffy hair, the dog also resembles a teddy bear.
📍 What is the price of a Samoyed puppy?
The price for a dog depends mostly on the breeder. A Samoyed puppy usually cost between $800 and $1,500. Dogs from renowned breeders cost $3000 and more.
📍 Samoyed – what's its lifespan?
Samoyed is a dog of a relatively long lifespan. On average, the dogs live from 12 to 15 years. Of course, it's an estimation, as some dogs live much longer.
📍 Samoyed – what's its weight?
The size of a dog is a direct factor influencing its weight. As for male Samoyed dogs, their weight varies between 20 and 30 kilograms. Females are much lighter and can weigh from 16 to 20 kilograms.
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