The Samoyed comes from the northeastern regions of Siberia where a nomadic tribe called Samoyedes lived; hence, the breed's name. The Samoyeds, descended from the Spitz family, were used to protect and drive the herds of reindeer from one place to another as the tribe travelled. The Samoyeds were also used as freight and pack dogs. It wasn't until the late 1800's that a fur-trader discovered the breed and brought some back to England in 1889. Development of the breed took place shortly thereafter, and the breed's popularity grew. Although the "Sammy" may be hard to housebreak at times, the Samoyed makes an excellent family companion in the city or country, but thrives mostly outdoors.

Appearance
The Samoyed is a medium-sized Spitz-type dog with a wedge-shaped head, prick ears, and a profuse white or biscuit-colored double coat. The corners of the mouth are turned up slightly, giving the impression that the Samoyed is smiling. The body is slightly longer than tall, and legs are somewhat long and moderately well boned.

Samoyed eyes are usually black or brown, and are almond in shape. Blue or other color eyes can occur but are not allowed in the show ring. The Samoyed tail is one of the breed's more distinguishing features. Like their Siberian Husky cousins, their tail is carried curled over their backs; however, unlike the Husky, the Samoyed tail is held actually touching the back in a tight curl. In cold weather, Samoyeds may sleep with their tails over their noses to provide additional warmth. Some Samoyeds have tails that fall straight down the backside, like many other breeds, but this prevents them from being show quality. However, almost all Samoyeds will allow their tails to fall when they are relaxed and at ease, as when being stroked, but will return their tails to a curl when more alert.

Samoyeds have a dense, double layer coat that is typically shed twice a year, although some shed only once a year. The top layer contains long, coarse, and straight guard hairs, which appear white but have a hint of silver coloring. This top layer keeps the undercoat relatively clean and free of debris. The under layer (or undercoat) consists of a dense, soft, and short fur that keeps the dog warm. Males typically have larger ruffs than females.

Character
Known as the smiling dog, the Samoyed is dependable and happy and loves nothing more than to play in the snow. This friendly and loyal dog loves the company of children. Samoyeds work best in teams and are much too friendly to be watchdogs, though they enjoy barking. The Samoyed is characterized by an alert and happy expression which has earned the nickname "Sammy smile."
 

Temperament
Samoyeds' friendly disposition makes them excellent companions, especially for small children or even other dogs, and they remain playful into old age. Samoyeds are also known to be stubborn at times and difficult to train, due to unwillingness rather than lack of intelligence; they must be persuaded to obey commands. With their sled dog heritage, a Samoyed is not averse to pulling things, and an untrained Samoyed has no problem pulling its owner on a leash rather than walking alongside. They will instinctively act as herd dogs, and when playing with children, especially, will often attempt to turn and move them in a different direction.

Exercise/Training
The Samoyed is active and needs a good workout every day, either in the form of a long walk or jog or a vigorous play session. It likes to pull and herd, and it loves cold weather. Playing and obedience are very good types of mental exercise. 15 minutes obedience and playing with your Samoyed will be more useful for the dogs exercise then an hour walk on the leash can provide.

Color
The Samoyed may come in a mixture of biscuit and white coloring, although pure white and all biscuit dogs aren't uncommon. The breeds standard is pure white; white and biscuit; cream.

Grooming
The thick coat of the Samoyed needs brushing and combing two to three times a week, daily when shedding. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Samoyed as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Samoyed should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.