The Samoyed
A dog known for its striking white coat and friendly disposition, the Samoyed traces its roots to the Samoyede peoples of Northern Siberia, where Samoyeds were bred to assist with pulling and herding and were tightly integrated into human society. One of the “14 ancient breeds” most genetically similar to wolves, the modern Samoyed remains exceptionally social, loyal and vocal, with a howl in which a distant – but not too distant – echo of the wolf can still be heard.
The correct pronunciation of the breed’s name is Sam•a•YED, with the accent on the last syllable. The dogs are also affectionately known as Sammies.
The recommended size for a male Samoyed is 21″ to 23-1/2″ high at the tip of the shoulder blade (withers), and for a female 19″ to 21″. A male in this height range weighs from 45 to 65 pounds and a female from 35 to 50 pounds.
The Samoyed’s magnificent white, cream, or biscuit coat has two layers: a dense, wooly undercoat, which is typically shed out once a year, and a coarser silver-tipped outer coat of long, straight guard hairs. Grooming this coat – a significant undertaking – occupies a prominent place in Samoyed care and lore.
There are two disqualifications in the AKC breed standard for Samoyeds:
- Any coat color other than white, cream, biscuit or a combination thereof
- Blue eyes
For more details please refer to the American Kennel Club (AKC) Breed Standard, as composed, adopted, approved and protected by members of the Samoyed Club of America.