Samoyed: Temperament, Coat and Everyday Care

A Samoyed suits an active home that wants a friendly, playful and talkative dog and doesn't mind a lot of white fur. They need plenty of exercise and company, can find heat hard, and shed heavily. The thick double coat needs brushing most days and should never be shaved.

A fluffy white Samoyed with its famous smile standing in light snow — The Sammy smile, snow optional.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Samoyed at a glance
Height	Males about 20–23.5 inches (51–60 cm); females about 18–21 inches (46–53 cm)
Lifespan	Over 10 years
Coat	Thick white double coat; brush most days
Exercise	More than 2 hours a day
Good with	People and other dogs, usually
Bred for	Herding reindeer and pulling sleds in Siberia

Who a Samoyed Suits

Samoyeds are friendly, gentle and sociable, often to everyone they meet. They suit active families and cooler climates.

They are a harder fit for hot homes without air conditioning, long days alone, and anyone house-proud about fur.

Exercise, Heat and Recall

The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day. In warm weather, exercise early and late. Recall can be independent; use a long line in open spaces.

The Coat

Brush to the skin most days, with an undercoat rake when the coat blows. Don't shave it. See grooming double-coated dogs.

Gear for a Samoyed

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An undercoat rake and slicker brush for the coat, a long line for recall, a cooling mat for warmer days, and a pet hair vacuum for everything else.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists DNA tests for X-linked hereditary nephritis and X-linked progressive retinal atrophy, plus hip, elbow and eye testing, as best practice for Samoyed breeders. Ask to see the parents' results.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fluffy dogs, common questions.

Do Samoyeds shed?

Yes, a lot, especially when the coat blows. Brush most days.

Can a Samoyed live in a hot climate?

It's hard work for them. Air conditioning, shade and early or late walks are essential.

Are Samoyeds barkers?

Many are chatty and vocal.

Are Samoyeds good with children?

Usually friendly and gentle. Supervise play.