What to know before getting a Samoyed. Are you considering getting a Samoyed? These fluffy and friendly dogs are popular for their affectionate personalities, but you should know a few things before you bring one home. Owning a Samoyed is a big responsibility, from their exercise needs to their grooming requirements. 

However, understanding their unique characteristics, temperament, and care requirements is crucial for ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with these adorable companions. But don’t worry; we are here to help! We’ve come up with this article to provide valuable information surrounding Samoyeds so that you have enough knowledge before getting one. 

1. Samoyed Dog Breed History

The Samoyed dog breed has a captivating history from 1000 BCE. The Samoyedic people of Siberia originally bred these dogs as working dogs. The Samoyed breed was developed to help the people of Siberia pull sleds, hunt, and herd reindeer. These dogs also kept their owners warm by sleeping with them at night.Beyond their practical utility, Samoyeds also held a special place in the hearts of their human counterparts. They were considered beloved family members, often sharing living spaces and sleeping alongside their human companions to provide warmth on chilly nights.

In the late 1800s, the Samoyed breed was introduced to Europe and America. The breed was quickly recognized for its beauty and intelligence and became a popular pet.  Samoyed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1906. Today, Samoyeds are still used as working dogs in some parts of the world but are primarily kept as pets. They are known for their friendly, thick white coats and love of people. Samoyeds make excellent family pets but require regular grooming and exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

2. Temperament Of Samoyeds

Samoyeds are known for their gentle and docile nature, making them ideal family pets. Their mouth has a unique upturned shape that helps reduce drooling and gives them a happy smile. These dogs are affectionate and crave love from their owners. While they possess a mischievous streak, they are intelligent and social animals. A properly socialized Samoyed is friendly towards strangers, gets along well with other dogs, and loves children. 

However, they have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for smaller pets. Samoyeds are better with small pets they have grown up with and have been socialized with.These dogs are also known for their alertness, which makes them good watchdogs. However, Samoyeds can be prone to excessive barking if they are not socialized properly. 

Therefore, it is crucial to socialize your Samoyed puppy early and frequently. Additionally, training your dog to stop barking at an early age can prevent this behavior from becoming a problem in the future.

3. Costs Associated With Owning A Samoyed

While Samoyeds make excellent pets, it’s important to consider the costs of owning one before bringing them home. The initial cost of purchasing a Samoyed averages $1,800, depending on the breeder. However, beyond that, there are ongoing and initial costs associated with;

• Dog Food and Treats – Ensuring your Samoyed maintains a healthy weight is achieved through nutritious food and treats, costing around $80 to $100. Buying in bulk can save you money.
• Food and Water Bowls – Invest in durable stainless steel bowls, costing between $10 and $30, for your Samoyed’s meals and hydration needs.
• Toys – You must also keep your active Samoyed entertained and prevent destructive behavior with engaging toys, typically priced at $30 to $40 for a set.
• Initial Vaccine Shots – While many good breeders provide initial vaccinations, getting additional shots may be necessary, costing between $75 to $200.
• Neutering and Spaying– These procedures can range in price from $50 to $500, but the long-term benefits are well worth the investment.
• Microchip – The cost of microchipping a Samoyed ranges from $40 and is a small price to pay for peace of mind that your Samoyed can be returned to you if lost.
• Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications – Budget between $50 to $200 for deworming and flea/tick preventatives if not provided by the breeder.
• Grooming Essentials – You might pay between $40 and $160 for a grooming kit, including brushes, scissors, and nail clippers.
• Initial Vet Visits – Regular vet visits during your puppy’s early weeks are crucial for its growth. Allocate $100 to $300 for initial check-ups and advice on diet and training.
• Bed – Expect to spend $40 to $180 based on brand and materials.
• Leashes and Collars – A high-quality leash and collar set ranges from $15 to $50. Consider materials like leather, nylon, or retractable options.

4. Samoyed Care And Grooming Tips

The Samoyed is a breed of dog known for its dense, double-layered coat, making them one of the fluffiest dog breeds.  Their undercoat is soft and wooly, while the overcoat is long and coarse. This combination of coats helps insulate them from the cold, which is why they were originally bred in Siberia. 

However, this also means they regularly shed year-round and have one or two heavy shedding sessions as the seasons change. You must brush their coat daily to remove loose fur and tangles to keep them healthy and prevent matting.  Bathing should only be done as needed, and occasional visits to the dog groomer can help maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Apart from grooming their coat regularly, taking care of your Samoyed’s nails, ears, and teeth is essential.  Neglecting these areas can lead to severe issues and discomfort for your furry friend. Regular trimming of nails prevents them from growing too long and causing problems while walking or running. Ear infections can be prevented by weekly ear checks and cleaning as required. Like humans, dogs’ teeth also need daily dental care and occasional cleanings at the vet to avoid dental diseases that can be painful in later life.

5. Samoyed Food And Nutrition Guide

It is important to provide your Samoyed with high-quality dog food to ensure that they stay healthy.  You can choose between commercially available dog food or preparing home-cooked meals for your furry friend. As with any dog, it is important to monitor their weight and adjust their portions accordingly if they start gaining too much weight.  Along with a balanced diet, Samoyeds require access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated and healthy. You should also consult your veterinarian to develop a healthy diet plan that suits your Samoyed’s needs based on age, weight, and activity level. Your vet can also help customize meals if you notice any potential food allergies or gastric distress.

6. Samoyed Health Issues And How To Prevent Them

When it comes to the well-being of your Samoyeds, being proactive is key. Understanding the common health issues affecting your pup and taking preventive measures can significantly contribute to their long and happy lives.

Glaucoma – Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by elevated eye pressure. It can occur in primary (hereditary) or secondary forms, with symptoms such as vision loss and pain. Treatment options include surgery or eye drops, and prognosis varies depending on the type and individual circumstances.

Hip Dysplasia – An inherited condition where the thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint, leading to potential pain, lameness, and arthritis. X-ray screening is the definitive diagnosis. To avoid this disease, ensure a puppy’s parents have been tested and are free from this condition before breeding.

Samoyed Hereditary Glomerulopathy – This is another genetic disease that affects the kidneys. It manifests more severely in male dogs, and unfortunately, death from renal failure usually occurs by 15 months of age. On the other hand, females develop mild symptoms at 2 to 3 months of age but do not suffer from renal failure. As of now, there is no genetic screening test available for this disease, but research is ongoing to find a way to diagnose it early and prevent its fatal consequences.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – This eye disease affects the retina’s cells, typically appearing in adulthood or old age and leading to eventual blindness.

Hypothyroidism is a thyroid gland disorder associated with conditions like epilepsy, hair loss (alopecia), obesity, lethargy, hyperpigmentation, pyoderma, and other skin issues. Treatment involves medication and dietary management.

Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis – The heart condition arises from a narrow connection between the left ventricle and the aorta, potentially causing fainting and sudden death. Consult your veterinarian for detection and appropriate treatment.

Diabetes Mellitus – It is a form of diabetes that results in the pancreas’s inability to regulate blood sugar levels.

7. Activity Level

The Samoyed has high levels of energy, which necessitates daily physical activity. Working dogs thrive on being occupied and require tasks to maintain their happiness.They must receive both exercise and mental stimulation regularly. In most cases, daily walks combined with playtime and ample time to run should suffice. 

However, given their energetic disposition, they may be inclined to engage in more activities if provided with the opportunity. As a ‘sled dog family member,’ they tend to dig when bored. Similarly, like other dogs, they can display destructive behavior if not exercised enough.Moreover, they possess a strong desire to wander and run freely. Therefore, it is imperative to allow them off-leash time in a securely fenced area like a dog park or a fenced yard. 

Conclusion

We hope this blog has detailed information on what to know before getting a Samoyed. Owning a Samoyed can be a truly rewarding experience, but knowing what you’re getting into before bringing one into your home is important. Before getting a Samoyed, you should do your research and prepare to commit to the responsibilities of owning one.