Samoyed vs Pomeranian! These are two of the world’s most beloved dog breeds, renowned for their adorable looks and friendly disposition. However, both have distinct differences when it comes to history, appearance, health, training requirements, grooming needs, living environment requirements, popularity – something it’s important to understand if considering adopting either breed as pets. In this article we compare and contrast both breeds in order to help you select which will best meet your needs.
History of Samoyed and Pomeranian breeds
Samoyed Breed
The Samoyed is a breed that originated among Siberian nomads known as Samoyede who used these dogs for herding reindeer, guarding homes, and pulling sleds. Their thick coat allowed them to adapt well in Siberia’s harsh climate; by 18th century explorers brought this breed over to Europe where it quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts; eventually in 1906 one was registered with American Kennel Club (AKC), becoming beloved companions ever since.
Pomeranian breed
The Pomeranian dog originates in Europe’s Pomerania region – now part of Germany and Poland – where its name originates. Popularized by Queen Victoria of Great Britain during her 18th-century reign as queen, Queen Victoria helped make Pomeranians one of the most beloved toy breeds worldwide before finally being officially recognized by American Kennel Club in 1900.
Although both Samoyed and Pomeranian breeds come from separate origins, they share one important similarity: each was designed specifically to fulfill certain tasks. Samoyeds were created for work in harsh environments while Pomeranians began as large sled dogs but have since been reduced in size in order to become lap dogs or companions for royalty.
Appearance and characteristics.
Here’s a table that details the appearance and characteristics of Samoyed and Pomeranian breeds:
| Characteristics | Samoyed | Pomeranian |
| Size and weight | Medium to large, 50-60 lbs. | Toy breed, 3-7 lbs. |
| Coat type and color | Thick, double coat, white | Long, thick coat, various |
| Physical characteristics | Sturdy, muscular, wedge-shaped head | Small, compact, fox-like head |
| Temperament and personality | Friendly, outgoing, independent | Lively, playful, affectionate |
| Common health issues | Hip dysplasia, eye problems, skin allergies | Dental problems, collapsed trachea, patellar luxation |
| Training needs | Intelligent, can be stubborn, need firm and consistent training | Intelligent, respond well to positive reinforcement training |
| Exercise requirements | Need daily exercise and mental stimulation, enjoy outdoor activities | Moderate exercise needs, enjoy indoor and outdoor activities |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance, need daily brushing and regular grooming to prevent matting | High maintenance, need daily brushing and regular grooming to maintain coat |
| Living environment | Best suited for a home with a yard, but can adapt to apartment living with enough exercise | Can adapt to apartment living, but still need daily exercise and mental stimulation |
| Popularity and availability | Ranked 35th by the AKC, widely available | Ranked 14th by the AKC, widely available |
Temperament and Personality
| Characteristics | Samoyed | Pomeranian |
| Temperament | Friendly, affectionate, independent, can be stubborn | Lively, playful, affectionate, can be reserved with strangers |
| Personality | Confident, intelligent, social, good with children and other pets | Alert, curious, brave, can be prone to excessive barking |
| Energy level | Moderate to high, need daily exercise and mental stimulation | Moderate, need daily exercise and mental stimulation |
| Trainability | Intelligent, can be stubborn, need firm and consistent training | Intelligent, respond well to positive reinforcement training |
| Sociability with strangers | Friendly, but can be reserved with strangers | Friendly, but can be wary of strangers if not socialized properly |
| Sociability with pets | Good with other pets if socialized properly | Good with other pets if socialized properly |
| Sociability with children | Good with children, enjoy playing and interacting with them | Good with children, enjoy playing and interacting with them |
| Vocalization | Vocal, may bark to alert or communicate | Vocal, may bark excessively if not trained properly |
Temperament and personality both play key roles.
Samoyeds and Pomeranians Have Health Concerns
Samoyeds and Pomeranians can be vulnerable to various health issues, so prospective owners must be mindful of any possible concerns that could arise with these breeds.
A. Samoyeds have various health concerns.
- Hip dysplasia: an inherited disorder whereby the hip joint does not form correctly, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): an irreversible eye disease which may eventually lead to blindness.
- Hypothyroidism: this condition, in which the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, resulting in symptoms including weight gain, lethargy and skin issues.
- Skin Allergies: Samoyeds can develop skin allergies that cause itching, redness, and irritation on their bodies.
B. Common Health Concerns for Pomeranians
- Dental Issues: Pomeranians may experience dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss.
- Collapsed Trachea (CT): this condition occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, collapses resulting in coughing, gagging and difficulty breathing. It can lead to coughing fits, gag reflex and difficulty in breathing.
- Patellar Luxation: an injury wherein the kneecap dislocates causing pain and difficulty walking.
- Skin Allergies: Pomeranians can suffer from skin allergies that cause itching, redness and irritation on their coat.
Samoyed vs Pomeranian: Popularity and Availability
Here is a table detailing the popularity and availability of Samoyed and Pomeranian breeds:
| Characteristics | Samoyed | Pomeranian |
| Popularity (AKC) | Ranked 35th | Ranked 14th |
| Popularity (UKC) | Ranked 28th | Not recognized |
| Availability | Widely available in most regions | Widely available in most regions |
| Price range (US dollars) | $1,500-$5,000 | $500-$5,000 |
| Breeder availability | Moderate | High |
| Rescue organization | Available | Available |
| Waiting list | Possible | Possible |
Note: Popularity rankings are determined by American Kennel Club (AKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC) rankings, which may differ by region or country. Prices can differ based on location, breeder reputation and other factors; waiting lists may depend on breeder availability/demand while rescue organizations often have dogs available for adoption at any given time.
Samoyed vs Pomeranian Conclusion
Samoyed and Pomeranian breeds of dogs are both well-known for their adorable appearance and friendly personalities, yet both varieties differ significantly when it comes to history, appearance, health, training needs, grooming needs, living environments and popularity. Samoyeds were initially developed for working in harsh environments while Pomeranians have evolved as lap dogs or companions from larger sled dog ancestry.
Samoyeds and Pomeranians can both be susceptible to certain health issues, and prospective owners should be aware of any possible concerns. Samoyeds may be more at risk for hip dysplasia and PRA while Pomeranians tend to experience dental problems, collapsed tracheas, and patellar luxations than other breeds. Proper nutrition, exercise and veterinary care can help manage and avoid these health concerns in both breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Samoyeds Be Good Family Pets?
Answer: Yes, Samoyeds are well-known for their friendly personalities, making them suitable family pets. As with any breed of dog, it is important that interactions between children and dogs are supervised closely to teach children the correct ways of interacting with Samoyeds.
Do Pomeranians Shed?
Answer: Yes, as Pomeranians have long, dense coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and shed. Regular grooming sessions may also help control their shedding.
Can Samoyeds live in apartments?
Answer: While larger Samoyeds may prefer homes with yards, apartment living can still be beneficial if provided with enough exercise and mental stimulation. Prospective owners should ensure their Samoyed receives adequate daily exercise and playtime in order to remain happy and healthy.
Are Samoyeds good watchdogs?
Answer: Samoyeds are friendly and outgoing dogs that typically won’t become aggressive towards strangers; however, they will bark to alert their owner of any possible threats.
