GROUP 6 - Utility

Brief History
For untold centuries in Northern Siberia, they were constant companions and all-purpose working dogs for the nomadic tribe of family groups called Samoyede. They herded reindeer, hunted, hauled sledges, and shared the family tent to provide warmth and companionship on freezing nights. Their working qualities were never more evident than when used in Arctic and Antarctic explorations late 19^th early 20^th century. The dogs brought back from these expeditions captured the attention of the western world.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.
The average life span is 10 to 12 years.

Temperament
The temperament of the well-bred Samoyed is a reflection on the breed’s beginning. This long close companionship with people throughout the years has instilled a strong love of human company, giving them a deeply affectionate and loving disposition. They are intelligent, alert, active, playful and friendly towards all mankind.

General Breed Description
The Samoyed is a medium sized dog of eye arresting beauty. Their sparkling, almond shaped, dark eyes and uplifted black lips with an ever-present smile, conveys a spirit of joy and happiness to all he meets and greets. Strong and agile in movement, he shows freedom, power and elegance. The breed has a stunning coat coloured either white, white and biscuit (light brown patching), or cream.

Coat and Care Requirements
Grooming your Sammy can become a pleasure for both dog and owner if started early in puppy hood. The coat is a thick double layered hair coat and does not have a doggy odour.  The standoff, longer outer coat with glistening silver tips, grows through a short soft denser under coat. Combing and brushing at least once a week is a must. The Samoyed will lose his coat once or twice a year. A thorough combing is recommended to remove any loose or dead coat when a bath become necessary. Care should be taken to thoroughly dry out the dense undercoat and a dog hair dryer is excellent to achieve this quickly and efficiently.

Size
Height: Males: 51 to 56cms (20 to 22ins), Females 46 to 51cms (18 to 20ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Samoyed is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. These may include Hip Dysplasia (HD) and eye problems may occur occasionally in individual cases.

Suitability
They make an ideal family member, however due to their exuberance when playing, supervision is advised to prevent accidental knocking of children. A well fenced, enclosed yard is recommended so they can run and exercise freely when outdoors is ideal. They are an agile dog and enjoy daily exercise.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/186