5. The Samoyed

Known for its brilliant white coat and perpetual “Sammie smile,” the Samoyed is a Spitz-type dog originally bred for herding reindeer and pulling sleds in Siberia. Its magnificent double coat is incredibly dense and designed to withstand arctic temperatures, but it requires diligent care to maintain in a domestic setting.

The Coat and Its Challenges

The Samoyed has a short, soft, and thick undercoat and a longer, harsher, and straight outercoat. This combination provides superb insulation. However, the Samoyed “blows” its undercoat—sheds it heavily—once or twice a year. During these periods, which can last for several weeks, clumps of fur will come out in handfuls. If not brushed out daily during a shed, this loose fur will pack tightly against the skin, causing massive mats and preventing air from circulating, which can lead to hot spots and other skin irritations.

The Required Grooming Regimen

Even when not shedding heavily, a Samoyed needs a thorough brushing two to three times per week to prevent tangles and remove loose hair. An undercoat rake is essential for removing the dead undercoat, while a slicker brush helps with the outer layers. During shedding season, daily brushing for at least 30-60 minutes is required. Many owners find that a high-velocity dryer can help “blow out” the loose undercoat before brushing, saving time and effort.

Bathing a Samoyed is a major project due to the coat’s thickness and water-resistant properties. It takes a long time to get the dog fully wet down to the skin, and an even longer time to rinse all the shampoo out. Most importantly, the dog must be dried completely, as trapped moisture can lead to mildew and skin problems. This usually requires a high-velocity dryer and can take several hours. These are high-maintenance dogs where professional grooming can be a great help, especially during peak shedding seasons.