Samoyed

These dogs, long used by the aboriginal Samoyeds on the tundras of Siberia as watchdogs and sled dogs, were employed on the Scott and Amundsen Antarctic expeditions.

Dogs of this breed (first registered as the Samoyede, though the name was later revised to Samoyed), are considered to be gifts from the angels, and the upturned corners of their mouths give these friendly dogs, nicknamed Sammy or Sam, an infectiously happy look.

One owner says, “They try to be babied and loved even by someone they’ve just met for the first time. They may follow anyone.” Another owner comments, “These dogs don’t care about little things. They are really carefree.”

Sable or black-and-white coats, which look especially beautiful against a snowy background, were popular once, but once they were introduced to England, their coat colors were restricted to pure white, biscuit, and cream.

The hairy, padded toes of these snow-loving dogs spread so they can grip snowy ground, and they protect their muzzles with their bushy tails to protect them from the cold air when they sleep. They also like to play in water year-round, but they are sensitive to heat.

Frequent brushing and combing are necessary, especially during the shedding seasons.

Origin: Russia
Size: (male) Height 21-28 inches ; weight 56-71 pounds
(female) Height 19-21 inches ; weight 40-56 pounds
Coat: Long and straight; undercoat is soft and dense. Colors include pure white, cream, and biscuit.