Samoyed

Before you give any Samoyed a home, it’s important to know about possible health issues. Not every dog suffers from them but it’s good to be prepared.

To find out more about potential health issues for Samoyeds, speak to your local vet. Some vet practices offer ‘pre-purchase consultations’ where you can get advice on potential health conditions, management options and a rough idea of associated costs.

If you’re thinking of buying a puppy, they also be able to give you advice on finding a responsible breeder, as well as testing for inheritable diseases.

Whatever the breed, all dogs need basic preventative health care like vaccinations and flea and worming treatments. You also need insurance to help cover the cost of vet bills. 

Not all Samoyeds need the same amount of food. This depends on their:

• age
• size
• activity levels
• fitness
• weight

Dog food packets usually provide a good indication of appropriate portion size. But you still need to take your dog’s individual needs into account and adapt where necessary.

Knowing your dog’s body condition can help you decide how much food to give them. You can find out how to determine their body condition through the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WVASA).

If unsure, ask your vet for more advice. 

Samoyeds are typically high-energy dogs who need lots of exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy.

They need daily walks, plus plenty of time and opportunity to explore, burn energy, and play. Like all dogs, they need training and benefit from daily enrichment.

If you love spending active time outdoors, this breed could be a great match for you.

Samoyeds, like all dogs, need training and daily enrichment. When exercising your Samoyed, consider their:

• age
• health
• personality

Young or growing pups, for example, might need a few short walks instead of one long one. Exercise plans for older, injured, or ill dogs may need to be adapted based on advice from your vet. Quiet, peaceful walks may suit some dogs, where others may require something more sociable.

Ask your vet for advice on exercising your dog. 

Samoyeds shed heavily. Introduce handling and grooming slowly and in a positive way. This helps your pooch to feel more comfortable with it. Grooming is more enjoyable for everyone if your dog feels relaxed and confident. 

In their crate, your dog should be able to comfortably:

• sit and stand at their full height
• turn around without touching the edges
• lie down at full stretch
• wag their tail

One step at a time, build up the time your dog spends in their crate, so they feel confident with it. The aim is to help them see it as a fun and safe space. 

Like us, every furball has their own unique personality shaped by their experiences. This means that different Samoyeds have varying temperaments.

As dogs grow, they learn all about the world. They figure out their likes and dislikes and learn to respond to situations in different ways.

Some doggos, for example, might like meeting new dogs and new experiences. Others might not, or might prefer human company.

Any breed of dog can be taught new tricks. The important thing is that the learning is positive. Find out your doggo’s favourite snacks, toys or treats. These work well as rewards for training, and they find it much more enjoyable.

Your dog also needs to learn useful life skills like recall, loose lead walking and settling. This will help you spend quality time together without worry, both at home and outside.