Origin of the Samoyed
Samoyeds are known for their loving and gentle disposition. Their personality along with the characteristic white or cream-colored coat and friendly face (Samoyeds often appear as though they are smiling, which is commonly referred to as the "Sammy Smile"), is what wins the hearts of those who choose to own one. This mellow, yet eager-to-please dog makes an ideal family pet, particularly for people who enjoy breeds that are not too hyperactive.
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Origin and History
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Samoyeds originate from Siberia and got their name from the nomadic Samoyedic tribes of Northern Russia and Siberia. They worked alongside their tribal owners, helping to herd reindeer, haul sleds and assist in hunting. Samoyeds also slept close to their owners, keeping them warm, which likely contributed to their highly loyal disposition.
After spending three months with the Samoyedic people in 1889 the zoologist Earnest Kilburn Scott and his wife Clara brought the breed back to his English homeland and began working to develop Samoyeds into the dogs they are today. He introduced them to the British public, where they quickly became a favorite of many dog owners and later gained popularity in the United States as well. The appeal of the Samoyed is found in dog lovers all over the world today.
Appearance
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Samoyeds are muscular, strong, medium-sized dogs. They typically measure about 19 to 23 inches in height and weigh between 45 and 65 pounds. They have triangular ears that rest high on their head. Their brown, almond-shaped eyes have dark rims as do their lips.Their muzzle, which is almost as long as their skull, ends with a dark nose. Their long tails are set high. Their double-coat can be found in shades of pure white and cream (the most common colors), biscuit, or biscuit and white.
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Personality
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In addition to being loyal dogs, Samoyeds are also extremely intelligent, dignified, friendly, confident, patient, alert and highly social. Their love of people usually does not make them good watch dogs.
Care
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The gorgeous Samoyed coat requires a little more care than dogs that have shorter coats. Daily brushing is necessary on dogs with long fur and double-coats, which discourages some people from owning them. It takes just 15 minutes to brush a Samoyed, but skipping a daily brushing can make their coats unmanageable within a matter of days. Since it is not a good idea to strip a dog of the natural oils in their skin, the occasional bath will suffice.
Veterinarians recommend the quantity and type of dog food for Samoyeds. Samoyeds need lots of attention and companionship to be well adjusted dogs. They should be regularly walked for optimal health and mental stimulation. However, owners should be mindful of the weather when they do take their Samoyed for walks, making sure that the dog is well hydrated since they are more prone to overheat than other dog breeds.
Health Problems
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Samoyeds are generally a healthy, hardy breed. However, like any dog they can become sick or encounter certain ailments. Hip dysplasia is one of the more common health problems with Samoyeds. They can also develop eye conditions, such as distichiasis, corneal dystrophy and glaucoma. Samoyeds are also known to develop kidney problems on occasion. Samoyeds can also have environmental or food allergies.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit samoyed image by Nickolay Bolshakov from Fotolia.com
