The Samoyed: a guide for UK owners
Samoo is a practical guide to living with a Samoyed in the UK, from the famous smile and the white coat to the daily grooming, the exercise and the real costs.
Is a Samoyed right for you?
The Samoyed is a medium-to-large spitz-type working dog from northern Russia and Siberia, bred to herd reindeer and pull sledges. That history explains almost everything about them: the thick double coat, the stamina, the independent streak, the vocal nature and the need to be with people. They are beautiful and usually friendly, but they are not an easy first dog for everyone.
The PDSA describes the Samoyed as loving, loyal and friendly, but also a very active, playful dog that needs a lot of exercise, mental stimulation and a secure garden. They shed heavily, need daily brushing and may become stressed if left alone for too long. If you read that and still smile, a Samoyed might be for you.
Guides on this site
- Temperament: what they are like with family, children, strangers and other dogs.
- Grooming: coat care, brushing, shedding and what not to do.
- Exercise and training: how much exercise, and how to train a puppy that thinks for itself.
- Health and health schemes: common conditions and the Kennel Club and BVA schemes.
- Breeders, rescue and costs: how to find a puppy or an adult dog responsibly and what it costs.
The Samoyed at a glance
- Coat: thick, white or cream double coat, which sheds heavily.
- Exercise: at least two hours a day, according to the PDSA.
- Grooming: daily brushing, with extra care during moulting.
- Lifespan: the PDSA says over 10 years.
- Alone time: they can become anxious if left for more than around four hours.
- Voice: vocal, with a talent for howling.
What owners say they love
Samoyeds are known for their "Sammy smile", the upturned corners of the mouth that give the dog a smiling look. They are social and affectionate, and many love being part of the family. They tend to be good with older children and enjoy games, long walks and learning new things.
What can surprise new owners
- The amount of hair. It gets everywhere, and a good vacuum becomes essential.
- The escape skills. They are good at getting out, so fences must be secure.
- The noise. They talk, sing and bark.
- The independence. They are clever and willing to negotiate.
- The heat. A thick coat makes summer care important: shade, water and walks in the cool of the day.
A day with a Samoyed
A typical day starts with a walk, then breakfast, and a brush if it is moulting season. Midday needs company, a chew or a puzzle, and a break in the garden. The afternoon or evening brings the main walk or a play session of an hour or more, followed by training, tea and a settled evening, often with the dog at your feet. It is a lot of time, but many owners say it is the best part of the day. If your days are very different from this, think carefully about whether the breed fits your life.
Living with the coat
You will find white hair on clothes, sofas and car seats. Many owners keep a lint roller, a good vacuum and a dark-coloured throw for visitors. The coat does not smell much when it is clean and dry, and mud tends to fall out once it dries. Heavy moult periods are the hardest. See grooming for how to cope.
Before you start looking
Ask yourself honestly: do you have time for daily exercise and grooming? Is someone at home for much of the day? Is your garden secure? Can you afford the costs of food, insurance and vet bills? If so, read about finding a responsible breeder or rescue. Questions about the site? Get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Samoyed need?
The PDSA says at least two hours a day, plus mental stimulation.
Do Samoyeds shed a lot?
Yes. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily and needs daily brushing.
Can a Samoyed be left alone?
The PDSA warns they may become stressed or anxious if left alone for more than around four hours.