Samoo › Samoyed temperament: friendly, clever and chatty
Samoyed temperament: friendly, clever and chatty
The Samoyed is famous for its smile and its sociable nature. Underneath is a working dog with ideas of its own.
The general picture
The PDSA describes Samoyeds as loving, loyal and friendly dogs, often good with older children. They are clever but can be independent and sensitive, which is why positive, reward-based training works best. Individual dogs vary, as they do in every breed, and early socialisation and good training make a big difference.
With people
Samoyeds are people dogs. They were bred to live and work alongside families in cold climates, sometimes sleeping in the tent with them. That closeness shows today. They usually greet visitors warmly, so they are poor guard dogs, though they may bark to announce someone at the door. They want to be involved, and may follow you from room to room.
With children
Many Samoyeds are gentle and playful with children, and the PDSA notes they are often good with older ones. A big, bouncy dog can still knock over a toddler, and no dog should be left unsupervised with young children. Teach children to leave the dog alone when it is eating or resting, and to be gentle with the coat and ears.
With other dogs and pets
Most Samoyeds get on with other dogs if properly socialised. The PDSA says they have a strong prey drive, so small animals such as cats, rabbits or guinea pigs may be at risk unless introductions are careful and the dogs have been raised together. Never assume a Samoyed will leave the neighbour's cat alone.
Alone time
They are not dogs to leave at home all day. The PDSA says they may become stressed or anxious if left for more than four hours. Boredom and loneliness often show up as digging, chewing and howling. If you work away from home, plan for a dog walker, daycare or a family member. Teach short absences early, building up slowly.
The Samoyed voice
This is a vocal breed. Samoyeds bark, "talk" and howl, and a few are real singers. This can be charming, but it can be a problem in flats or close neighbours. Training can reduce nuisance barking, but you can't remove the tendency. Think about neighbours before you buy.
Independence and training
Samoyeds learn quickly but ask "what's in it for me?" They respond well to rewards such as treats, play and praise, and badly to harsh methods. Keep sessions short, varied and fun. Recall can be a challenge, especially around wildlife, so many owners keep a Samoyed on a long line or in secure areas for off-lead time. See exercise and training.
Escape artists
The PDSA warns that Samoyeds are skilled escape artists, so the garden must be secure. Check that fences are high and sound, and gates are latched. Dogs that dig under or jump over will do so if they are bored or curious.
Who suits a Samoyed?
- Active people or families who enjoy walks in all weather.
- Homes where someone is around for much of the day.
- Owners who are happy to groom and clean up hair.
- People who enjoy training and have patience.
Who may struggle?
- People who are out at work all day with no support.
- Those who want a quiet dog.
- Homes with a small, insecure garden.
- Anyone who dislikes dog hair.
Next: grooming the Samoyed coat.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. Speak to your vet about your own dog.