Finding the right Samoyed puppy is an exciting experience, but taking your time and doing a little research can make all the difference.
So You've Decided to Own a Samoyed Puppy
Once you've decided that a Samoyed is the right breed for you, the next question is usually, "Where do I find a puppy?"
A good place to start is by contacting one of the Samoyed breed clubs. Clubs can offer advice, help you get in touch with breeders and may know of litters currently available or planned.
Be prepared to wait for the right puppy. A responsible breeder may not have puppies available immediately, and sometimes you may need to join a waiting list. It's much better to be patient than to rush into buying a puppy simply because one is available.
Meet the Breed and Its Breeders
One of the best ways to learn more about Samoyeds is to visit dog shows where the breed is being exhibited.
You'll have the opportunity to see different Samoyeds in person, meet breeders, ask questions and get a better understanding of the breed's appearance, temperament and character.
You can also see the dogs that breeders are showing and learn a little about their breeding programmes.
Most exhibitors are happy to talk about their dogs, although it's always best to approach them when they're not busy preparing for or showing in the ring!
You don't need to be interested in showing dogs yourself to attend. It's simply a good opportunity to meet people who know and love the breed.
Choosing a Responsible Breeder
Finding a responsible breeder is one of the most important steps when looking for a puppy.
Avoid buying from puppy dealers or establishments selling puppies from numerous different breeds without giving you the opportunity to meet the breeder and see how the puppies have been raised.
Whenever possible, visit the breeder at home and meet the puppy's mother. You should be able to see the environment where the puppies are growing up and ask questions about their care, health and early experiences.
A responsible breeder will usually have plenty of questions for you too. They will want to know about your home, lifestyle, experience with dogs and what you expect from owning a Samoyed.
Don't be put off by this. A breeder who genuinely cares about their puppies will want to make sure they are going to suitable homes.
You should also feel comfortable asking questions yourself. A good breeder should be open about their dogs, their breeding decisions and any health issues relevant to the breed or their lines.
Health Testing Matters
Before choosing a puppy, always ask about the health testing carried out on both parents.
The Royal Kennel Club's current Best Practice health recommendations for Samoyeds include:
- Hip scoring — using the BVA/RKC Hip Dysplasia Scheme.
- Elbow grading — using the BVA/RKC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme.
- Eye examinations — using the BVA/RKC/ISDS Eye Scheme.
- DNA testing for XLHN — X-linked hereditary nephritis.
- DNA testing for XL-PRA — X-linked progressive retinal atrophy.
It is also worth asking about gonioscopy (PLA), an additional eye examination used to assess the drainage angle of the eye and investigate risk factors associated with certain types of glaucoma.
Gonioscopy is not currently listed as a separate Best Practice requirement for Samoyeds in the Royal Kennel Club's Health Standard, but it is worth discussing with the breeder.
Check the Results Yourself
Don't be afraid to ask for the full registered names of both parents.
You can use the Royal Kennel Club's online Health Test Results Finder to look up recorded health results, including hip and elbow scores, eye screening information and recognised DNA test results.
Royal Kennel Club Health Test Results Finder:
https://www.royalkennelclub.com/health-test-results-finder/
You can also read the Royal Kennel Club's current recommendations for Samoyeds:
https://www.royalkennelclub.com/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/pastoral/samoyed/
Remember that not every test result will necessarily be displayed online, so if something is missing, ask the breeder to show you the relevant certificates.
Health testing cannot guarantee that a puppy will never develop a health problem. However, it is an important part of responsible breeding, and understanding the results is just as important as knowing that the tests have been carried out.
Meeting Your Puppy
Many breeders will invite prospective owners to visit before the puppies are ready to leave.
This gives you the opportunity to meet the puppies, see their mother and spend time talking to the breeder.
Don't expect to choose a puppy purely on appearance. Breeders who have spent weeks watching their puppies develop may be able to help match individual personalities to suitable homes.
Some puppies are naturally more confident and adventurous, while others may be quieter or more thoughtful. Their personalities will continue to develop as they grow.
A good breeder should also be able to explain how the puppies have been raised, including their early experiences with people, household sounds, handling and everyday activities.
Preparing for Your Puppy's Arrival
Before bringing your puppy home, make sure you have everything ready.
A secure garden, a comfortable place to sleep, suitable food, bowls, toys and basic grooming equipment are a good starting point.
Samoyeds have a thick double coat, so getting your puppy used to gentle brushing, handling and grooming equipment from an early age is particularly important.
Your breeder should be able to demonstrate how to groom your puppy and recommend suitable equipment.
It is also worth planning ahead for training, socialisation and veterinary care.
Remember that puppies need plenty of rest. Exercise and activities should be appropriate for their age and development, rather than expecting them to keep up with adult dogs.
Paperwork and Information from Your Breeder
When collecting your puppy, your breeder should provide the relevant documents and information, including:
- Royal Kennel Club registration details, where applicable, and pedigree information.
- Microchip details and information about transferring keepership.
- Vaccination and veterinary records, where applicable.
- Worming information and any treatments already given.
- A feeding guide explaining what the puppy has been eating.
- Copies of or access to the parents' relevant health test results.
- Advice on grooming, training and settling your puppy into its new home.
Take time to read the paperwork and ask about anything you don't understand.
Your breeder should also explain what to expect during the first few days and how to contact them if you have questions.
The First Few Weeks at Home
Bringing a puppy home is exciting, but remember that everything is new to them.
They have left their mother, littermates and familiar surroundings, so give them time to settle into their new home.
Establish a gentle routine for feeding, sleeping, toilet training and play.
Introduce new experiences gradually and positively. Socialisation isn't about meeting as many people and dogs as possible in the shortest time. It's about helping your puppy feel comfortable and confident in different situations.
Short, enjoyable training sessions can begin straight away. Samoyeds are intelligent dogs, but they can also have independent personalities, so patience and positive reinforcement are especially valuable.
Early grooming sessions should also be relaxed and rewarding. The aim is to help your puppy learn that being handled, brushed and dried is a normal and comfortable part of life.
A Breeder's Support Should Last a Lifetime
A responsible breeder's involvement shouldn't end when you collect your puppy.
They should be willing to offer advice and support as your Samoyed grows, whether you have questions about feeding, grooming, behaviour or general care.
Many breeders love receiving updates and photographs of the puppies they have bred.
Owning a Samoyed is a long-term commitment, and having someone experienced to turn to can be incredibly valuable.
Need Advice?
If you're thinking about welcoming a Samoyed into your family but aren't sure where to begin, please get in touch with the British Samoyed Club.
We can offer guidance about the breed, help you understand what to look for in a responsible breeder and may be able to put you in contact with breeders who have puppies available or litters planned.
Taking your time to find the right breeder and puppy is one of the best starts you can give your future companion.