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In Aurora, Colorado USA
Kathryn Kudron & Wilhelm Beckmann
VOYAGER DOGZ & STUFF
In Aurora, Colorado USAKathryn Kudron & Wilhelm BeckmannLast updated: August 18, 2011
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
About the Samoyed
HOW BIG ARE THEY? The Samoyed standard recommends males be 21" to 23-1/2" at the shoulder; bitches 19" to 21".
ARE THEY GOOD WITH CHILDREN? The Samoyed is extremely gentle and loving, especially to children. Of course, any dog should be socialized while still a puppy and taught basic commands but with this breed, you would never have to worry about aggression. In fact, most Samoyed dogs are quite tolerant of tugging and pulling, making them a great choice for families.
ARE THEY EASY TO TRAIN? He can be the easiest of all breeds to train or the hardest to control, depending on how you handle the situation. Training MUST be given; a command once given MUST BE OBEYED. He WILL obey and keep his dignity if you have had close companionship and understanding of each other. Keep in mind your command can very well sound stupid to him. At this point while matching wits - meet the challenge, present your point as an enjoyable and intelligent command by expressing delight in sharing it, praise him highly when done, even though it was not just as you expected.
WHAT ARE THE GROOMING REQUIREMENTS? The Samoyed is a double coated breed. This coat consists of a woolly undercoat and longer guard hairs. Twice a year, Samoyeds "blow" their undercoats, that is, they shed their undercoats completely. It is a very intense shedding period that can last up to three weeks from start to finish. A Samoyed should be brushed a minimum of once a week, along with a nail trim, and teeth cleaning. Unless they are being shown, they do not need to be bathed except every couple of weeks. Follow the bath with a blow-dry to ensure your Samoyed doesn't get hot spots. Never shave your Samoyed!!
ARE THEY GOOD WATCHDOGS? No. The Samoyed has no concept of what "guard" means!
HOW MUCH ROOM DO THEY NEED? Although the Samoyed is a family dog, he is also a working dog! A fenced-in yard is a must where he can get his exercise, feel the freedom of open area, yet be protected from death by a car. He will want to herd the neighbor's cat, rabbits, squirrels or explore the area, as much as ten miles of it.
I'VE HEARD THAT THEY ARE NOISY? Indeed, they are. Samoyeds use their voice for everything. They bark to let you know they want in the house, or out of the house. They bark to let you know that they are lonely, they are not lonely, they are having fun, they are bored. Although they rarely howl, they are quite voiceful with their bark!
SHOULD I GET A MALE OR A FEMALE? This is strictly a matter of personal preference. Both are equal in pet qualities. The male, being larger, is more impressive when first viewed. The female, however, must be considered his equal in all other respects. Modern veterinary practice recommends neutering of non-breeding animals of both sexes as a means to a healthier, better pet.
WHAT ABOUT HEALTH ISSUES? The Samoyed is a hardy dog and not prone to illness. Your pup's parents should be checked for hip dysplasia and eye problems. Check with your breeder and be sure that both parents have been OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certified free of hip dysplasia and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) certified for eyes. Find out as much information as you can about grand-parents, great-grand-parents, too.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN? The average lifespan of a Samoyed is over 10 years. Some will live longer, of course. Unfortunately, some will not live as long. Buying from a well-respected breeder who breeds for longevity, health, and temperament will increase your chances of a long-lived Samoyed.
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