Breed Spotlight: Samoyed

The Samoyed descends from the Nenets Herding Laika, a dog bred originally by the Nenets people of Russia for herding reindeer. Nansen Johansen bought 33 of these dogs from the Nenets for his expedition to the North Pole in 1893. One of the dogs purchased for the expedition gave birth to a litter of all white pups, the original Samoyeds. Johansen noted that they proved themselves more than adept at both pulling sleds and hunting Polar bears.

Today Samoyeds still find work on expeditions to both the Arctic and Antarctic, though of course most serve primarily as cheerful family companions. If you’ve spent time with a Samoyed you understand where breed nicknames like “Sammie smile” and “smiley dog” come from.

Samoyeds are active dogs who enjoy a good job or hobby. They’re often to be found excelling at dog sports like agility, carting, flyball, tracking, mushing, and herding.

To share your home with a “smiley dog” search for a Samoyed rescue near you.