1. One British zoologist re-named the Samoyed.
This is a rather recent designation; the original names have since been forgotten. In the late 1800s, Samoyeds were first imported from Siberia to assist with polar missions. British naturalist Ernest Kilburn Scott was the first to successfully transport one back to England. Bjelkier is the generic Russian term for the breed, which is what his British pals called him at first. However, Kilburn Scott renamed the breed “Samoyed” when he established the Samoyed Club of England in 1909. He presented them to the local Samoyedic people, the first to domesticate the breed.
2. They are genetically similar to the wolf.
Samoyeds are one of 14 traditional breeds that share the most DNA with wolves, and they have not been subject to extensive human-directed selective breeding. Unlike wolves though, the Samoyed’s signature smile is always revealed, even when the dog isn’t showing his or her teeth. Samoyeds are known for their prominent levels of sociability, intelligence, loyalty, and expressiveness.
3. They seem to be smiling all the time.
If you know anything about Samoyeds, you’ve probably heard of the “Sammie Smile.” These dogs radiate charm and amiability since they always seem to be returning your smile. However, there is a valid explanation for their perpetual cheerfulness. Samoyeds have been specifically bred to have a black muzzle and rounded off the corners of their mouths. The American Kennel Club’s breed standard specifies this, and it was bred for a purpose. The Samoyed doesn’t drool because of this physical trait. With Siberia’s freezing temperatures, any drool from the dogs would instantly turn into icicles around their lips and on their thick coats!
4. They don’t produce the same scent as most dogs.
The fact that Samoyeds don’t stink might surprise you, even if you already knew their coat was fantastic. Many Sammie owners can attest that their pets don’t have that typical dog odor. Some of them even claim they don’t have a scent. Still, this is no excuse to ignore caring for their fur. The thick coat of a Samoyed dog can trap dirt and debris, leading to a potentially unpleasant odor if the dog isn’t regularly brushed and bathed.
5. Samoyeds’ fur is quite unique.
There is something else that makes this coat stand out. Owners of Samoyeds, even those with experience with the breed, are often taken aback by how easily their dirty dogs can be cleaned up after a good bath and drying. Samoyeds with the right kind of stand-off coat are often called “Teflon dogs” because dirt doesn’t stick to them. With a “forced air dryer,” dirt and dust are easily blown out of the Samoyed’s coat, leaving it looking like new.
6. The Samoyed is a genetically healthy breed.
Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) guidelines for Samoyeds were set by the Samoyed Club of America. These criteria are composed of OFA or CERF registered eye exams; OFA, OVC, or PennHIPP hip assessments; XL-PRA and RD/OSD DNA tests; and OFA congenital cardiac evaluation. The Samoyed Club of America Education and Research Foundation is a fantastic resource for anyone who owns a Samoyed (SCARF). Those wishing to add a Samoyed to their home should only adopt a dog from a breeder that is a member of the Samoyed Club of America (SCA), has signed on to the club’s code of ethics, and breeds only the healthiest and best examples of the breed.
7. Samoyeds “blow” or shed their undercoat twice a year.
There is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog breed, although non-shedding breeds tend to be the most popular recommendations for people with allergies. Those who suffer from allergies but are considering adopting a Samoyed should do their research on the breed before making a final decision. Indeed, they are shedding animals. But despite their heavy shedding, Samoyeds are relatively hypoallergenic pets since they produce much less dander than normal dogs. That’s why, despite cats’ heavy shedding, the hair is rather dander-free. Obviously, this is yet another reason Samoyeds are such great pets for everyone!
8. Samoyeds are used in expeditions of the North and South Poles.
Samoyeds are a common sight on the arctic research teams that they help. In addition to their unusually thick and fluffy coats, Samoyeds are also known for their boundless curiosity. Thus, they are ideal for enduring the coldest climates on Earth. After all, they were born in Siberia, where the average annual temperature is an astonishing -80 degrees Fahrenheit!
9. They are historically loyal.
Samoyeds thrive in social environments and were historically kept in the animal skins of their nomad masters (tents resembling teepees). Separation from their human relatives is difficult for this breed. It’s safe to assume that these dogs will get along fine with your other pets, though you should exercise caution when introducing them to new species. Remember, canine family members, like human offspring, benefit from knowing and understanding the rules of the home. Their inherent sensitivity makes them great therapy dogs for all ages.
10. They are great in competitions.
Samoyeds are very clever dogs that thrive when given tasks to complete because they are easily bored. They need a trainer with the experience to show off their full potential. They have won MACH titles in speed, are well-liked when seen pulling Santa’s sleigh or other big loads, and have beaten more well-known herding breeds in herding events.
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