Working Dog Group - Samoyed

Fondly known as Sammy, this breed is one of the most ancient breeds; according to recent DNA analysis. These dogs were originally from Siberia and were used for pulling sleds, guarding purposes and keeping people warm. Later on they were crossbred with wolves and a crossbreed was developed. These dogs were also used by people to keep themselves warm. These dogs naturally possessed a hunting instinct and were also were friendly with humans in training and obedience. These dogs were later on brought to England by an explorer Robert Scott and he bred them in this European subcontinent.

These are compact dogs; not tall or heavy in size in the pure breeds. They come in selective colors, like cream, pure white, biscuit and yellow. The females can be easily recognized apart from the males as they are smaller in size and light weight. The males usually grow up to21 – 23.5 inches approximately and they weigh 45-65 pounds; whereas the females grow up to 19-21 inches and weigh 35 – 50 pounds. They have a shaggy double coat that is helpful to protect them from the harsh effects of the winter in their regions of origin like Siberia.

Though they have wolf like face, these dogs are very gentle, docile and extremely loving with children. They are also highly adaptive to the dogs of the other breeds and cats if the family has any. They love to live with family and are not that good as watchdogs. They are even tempered and do not prefer getting in to fights. But if the need arises they can deal efficiently with adversaries.

They are highly intelligent breed and need constant mental and physical stimulation; the lack of which can bore them and force them into a spree of uncontrollable barking. This habit should be totally discouraged from their puppyhood. Although they cannot be forced into being watchdogs, they can be taught to warn the master if a stranger arrives.

These dogs need human company constantly once they are petted. They can prove to be nuisance if they are kept lonely for a long period of time continuously. There are times when these dogs will bite anything they can get their teeth on. They must be discouraged of this habit at an early age. They have natural hunting instincts, so they cannot be friendly with many animals unless they are taught to do so. Therefore make sure that you train your dog firmly and discipline it about its behavior towards the weaker animals.

They can be excellent herd dogs and can be easily trained to do so. This training should begin from their early puppyhood. They are very social and hence won't be problem for people whom they are new to. In fact make sure that this breed is taught to maintain a stand of aggression with unknown people.

The Sammy needs a lot of exercise and when that is taken care of properly, then can live comfortably in an apartment. They are uncomfortable in warm and hot weather as they feel the heat badly than us. They need to be kept in cool climate and a daily walk is a must for this breed, to keep its migratory instincts alive. These dogs shed heavily during each season; hence they must be continuously groomed and kept clean and maintained.

The Sammy is a great companion dog.