Samoyed

Smiling Cloud on the Move
Also Known As -
Sammy, Bjelkier
Samoyeds are friendly and gentle dogs, known for their white, fluffy coat and adaptable nature. They are good companions for families and enjoy being active.

Experienced Owner

Great for experienced owners who can balance grooming, training, and lots of play.
Activity Needs
High
High
High
High

Needs regular walks, play sessions, and cold-weather outings. Loves snow and sled work.

Trainability
Willing
Willing
Willing

Smart and cooperative, but can be independent and a little dramatic.

kid compatability
Kids
Kids

Excellent with kids and polite pets. Affectionate and sociable.

grooming needs
High
High
High

That coat is no joke—needs brushing several times a week and major de-shedding.

noise level
Can Be Vocal
Can Be Vocal
Can Be Vocal

Can be talkative and expressive, especially when under-stimulated.

Good for Allergies
No
No

Heavy seasonal shedding. Not suitable for allergy-sensitive homes.

About the

Samoyed

The Samoyed takes its name from the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia, nomadic reindeer herders who bred these fluffy white dogs to help herd livestock, pull sleds, and serve as living blankets during freezing nights. In parts of Europe, the breed is also known as the Bjelkier.

These dogs are instantly recognizable by their thick white coats and trademark “Sammy smile.” Originally developed for hard work in the Arctic, Samoyeds are strong, energetic, and built for endurance—but they’re also affectionate, social, and excellent with children. Their friendly disposition makes them poor guard dogs but wonderful companions for families and even other pets.

Samoyeds tend to retain a playful, puppy-like attitude well into old age. They’re intelligent but can be stubborn, often requiring patient, positive reinforcement rather than firm discipline. Their sled-dog roots mean they enjoy pulling and may resist leash manners if not properly trained. They also have natural herding instincts and may try to “guide” children or other animals during play.

Regular grooming is essential due to their dense, double-layer coat, which sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes.

Similar Dog Breeds: Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Great Pyrenees, American Eskimo Dog

What It's Like To Own One

Living with a Samoyed is like sharing your home with a living snow puff powered by joy and opinions. They smile with their whole face, greet life like a parade, and turn even the dullest afternoon into a comedy sketch. They’re sociable, bright, and wired for connection—equally thrilled by a snowstorm or a neighborhood meet-and-greet.

But here’s the real deal: behind that stunning coat is a lot of work. They shed like it’s their job, and brushing is basically a lifestyle. They’re vocal—not just barking, but full-on storytelling. They’ll test your patience, outwit your commands, and charm their way out of trouble with that trademark Sammy grin.

Still, they’re more than just fluff and flair. They’re loyal, affectionate, and remarkably emotionally attuned. Yes, they’re a high-maintenance northern breed—but they’re also deeply loving family companions who bring laughter, loyalty, and just enough chaos to keep life interesting. Expect mess. Expect noise. Expect love in its loudest, fluffiest form.

Tail Of The Tape

Trait
Low
High
Height
19
in
23.5
in
Weight
35
lbs
65
lbs
Lifespan
12
yrs
12
yrs

Personality Snapshot

• Upbeat and friendly

• Very fluffy—very

• Great family dog

• Needs structure and grooming

• Not ideal for hot climates

Breed Embodiment

Anna (Frozen)
Joyful, expressive, and always up for fun

Dating Profile

Fluffy, fabulous, and always down for a snow day. I’m equal parts sparkle and sass, with a side of stand-up comedy. I’ll make you laugh, keep you company, and leave a little fur wherever I go. Swipe right if you love good vibes, cold weather, and don’t mind a little shedding in exchange for a lot of love.

Fictional Owners

Chris Traeger (Parks and Rec)
Relentlessly positive and health-conscious
Lorelei Gilmore
Fast-talking, affectionate, and emotionally intuitive
Max (The Secret Life of Pets)
Cheerful, loyal, and a little extra

Where They Want To Live

Samoyeds thrive in cool climates with active families and firm but loving structure. A yard is great. A snowbank is better. They need exercise, stimulation, and plenty of social interaction—but they also need boundaries.

They’re happiest in homes where their voice is heard (literally), their beauty is maintained, and their goofy side is fully appreciated.

🐾 Bringing home a

Toy dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with puppy socialization tips for your 
Samoyed
to build confidence early.
And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
Small dogs can bring big challenges.
Start with our puppy socialization tips for your 
Samoyed
to build confidence early. And make sure to check out, Help! I Got a Puppy, a complete guide for new dog parents to raise a great pup without losing your mind.
We’ve got you covered with
first 48-hour tips for your
Samoyed
puppy to start off right.
To prep for the wild ride ahead, grab Help! I Got a Puppy, the first book every new dog owner should read.
Big pups grow fast. Get ahead of the curve with
puppy proofing tips for your new  
Samoyed
puppy and make your home safe from day one. Then dive into Help! I Got a Puppy, a step-by-step handbook for everything you’ll need (and didn’t know to expect).
Start with this
Puppy 101 for your new  
Samoyed
to build habits before that little giant grows up.
And don’t miss Help! I Got a Puppy— the Google Maps of puppyhood and your sanity-saving handbook for the first year.

Things To Know

• Grooming is constant

• Can be stubborn and vocal

• Needs mental and physical outlets

• Not for neat freaks

• Loves companionship

Gear Guide

• Undercoat rake and blow dryer

• Cooling mat and fan access

• Hiking harness with storage

• Tug toys and puzzle feeders

• De-shedding shampoo

Health Watch: Common Breed Risks

Beneath the fluff, some watchpoints:

• Hip dysplasia

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• Hypothyroidism

• Diabetes mellitus (higher risk than many breeds)

• Glaucoma and other eye issues

Choose breeders who prioritize genetic health screenings.

Coat Types & Color Variety

Famous for their frosty elegance:

• Thick double coat: dense, insulating undercoat with a coarse outer coat

• Typically pure white, but can also be biscuit, cream, or white & biscuit

• Heavy seasonal shedding—spring and fall “blowouts” are real

• Daily brushing recommended; more during shedding seasons

• Coat is dirt-resistant but not maintenance-free

That gorgeous white puff? It’s a full-time job.

Diet & Nutrition Needs

Fuel for fluff and function:

• Balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats

• Adjust portions based on activity level—these dogs can range from couch fluff to working dog

• Avoid overfeeding—Samoyeds can gain weight easily

• Fresh water always available—especially in warmer climates

• Omega fatty acids may help keep coat healthy and skin soothed

Feed for strength, not just sparkle.

Health Care Tips

Smile-powered, care-needed:

• Don’t shave the coat—protects from heat and cold alike

• Needs lots of exercise to avoid boredom and barking

• Keep mentally enriched—they’re intelligent and can be mischievous

• Stay on top of dental hygiene; Samoyeds are prone to tartar buildup

• Regular vet visits help track thyroid and eye health

Samoyeds give joy, charm, and cuddle power—just keep up with the fluff and fitness.

Bottom Line

Samoyeds are joyful, high-maintenance companions built for cold climates and connected households. They thrive on social interaction, daily activity, and serious grooming commitment. In return? You get a loyal, expressive fluffball who brings light, laughter, and love in spades.

Additional Resources