Page 106 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

106 GUIDE T O BREED S

Broad, wedge- Erect, round-tipped ears,
shaped head thickly lined with hair
Dark eyes
Long, bushy tail rimmed with black
carried over back,
falls to one side
Typical
“smiling”
Muscular, expression
broad back

Ruff of longer,
denser hair
around neck

Thick, soft, white
coat with silver-
tipped outer hairs Feathering on
back of front legs

SAMOYED

THIS STRIKINGLY ATTRACTIVE DOG MAKES AN EXCELLENT FAMILY PET AKC

Height range Developed centuries ago by the nomadic to be friends with everyone. However, the
18–22 in (46–56 cm)
Samoyed people of Siberia, this beautiful Samoyed retains the watchdog instincts
Weight range dog was used for herding and guarding for which it was bred. Although never
35–66 lb (16–30 kg)
reindeer and for sled hauling. This tough, aggressive, it will bark at anything that
Life span Over 12 years outdoor worker was also very much a family arouses its suspicion. This dog craves
Origin Russia dog, taking its place in its owner’s tent and company and likes to be kept occupied
enjoying human companionship. These mentally and physically. Intelligent and
dogs were brought to England in the 1800s spirited, a bored or lonely Samoyed
and were first seen in the United States will resort to mischief—whether it
around a decade later. Numerous myths and is digging holes or finding a way to
unsubstantiated stories link the Samoyeds escape through a fence. The breed
to the polar expeditions of the late 19th and responds well to thoughtful handling,
early 20th centuries, but it appears likely that but training requires patience and
this breed was included among sled teams persistence on the part of its owner.
taken to the Antarctic during the heyday of Daily grooming is essential to keep
polar exploration. the Samoyed’s magnificent, standout
The modern Samoyed retains the sociable coat in order and maintain its distinctive
and easy-going temperament that made it so silvery sheen. Seasonal shedding of the
valued as part of a nomadic family. Behind undercoat can be very heavy but, except
the “smiling” expression characteristic of the in very warm conditions, normally occurs
breed is an affectionate nature and a desire only once a year.

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