• Q:    I am at work most of the day and the dog would be left alone for 7-8 hours at a time, would this be a problem ?
• A:    Samoyeds do require a lot of attention and crave human contact, it is not the ideal pet for people who are out at work all day, long periods alone is not really fair on the animal. As the Samoyed is a hard working and highly intelligent breed, long periods alone can lead to problems such as destructiveness etc. hence a Samoyed would not be the best choice for your situation.

• Q:    Are Samoyeds good with children ?
• A:    Generally Samoyeds are very good with children, the breed has a very close affinity to humans and especially children, although they can be boisterous at times, they do make ideal family pets and retain their "puppyness" well into adulthood.  However depending upon their past history there may be exceptions, if you have children and want to take on a rescue animal please let us know so that we can try and ensure the best possible match.

• Q:    Do Samoyeds need a lot of grooming ?
• A:    Samoyeds do require more grooming than most other breeds, an average of say an intensive groom of  approximately 1 Hour duration once a week and if possible a quick 15 minute groom every other day or so keeps the coat in order. Samoyeds do shed their coat (on average once a year for dogs and twice a year for bitches) so be prepared for more intensive grooming during these periods.

• Q:    What form of training is best for Samoyeds ?
• A:    Samoyeds have a very strong pack instinct and need firm and consistent handling, they are NOT to be considered just cute fluffy bundles !  There is a strong character and a physically VERY strong dog under that beautiful white coat !

Firm : You must NEVER strike a Sam or physically harm him, better to use more subtle methods to show your displeasure. (even just a look can work)
Consistent : It is no good saying NO ! one moment, but letting him do the exact same thing the next minute! To quote from a book referring to the breed: "The Samoyed is a dog of contradictions. It is friendly and cheerful, intelligent and reasonably obedient, yet never follows orders slavishly and can at times be extremely stubborn. It is sensitive and gentle natured, but dominant and vigilant...  Your authority should be clearly seen, but with a friendly touch. Screaming, shouting or hitting it will lose you any respect that it may have had towards you".  Clicker training works well with Samoyeds, it is best to get a professional trainer to introduce the method to you as timing is very important with this form of training.

• Q:    Do Samoyeds require a lot of exercise ?
• A:    Samoyeds are active dogs and require approximately One and a half  hours or so of exercise a day. This should include free running whenever possible as well as walking on the lead to give lead discipline.

• Q:    I have heard that Samoyeds are noisy dogs, is this true ?
• A:    Samoyeds are well known for their vocalness, they tend to make an "Arrooo" noise from time to time and will generally bark loudly if someone approaches or they see something of interest. Samoyeds tend to bark more in a pack situation, with other dogs around, than if kept singularly. Barking is used to show pleasure and to attract attention.

• Q:    What age of dog is going to be available ?
• A:    The Samoyed Association Rescue handles animals of all ages, these have in the past ranged from puppies of 6 months or less to adults of 12 years of age. It will depend upon what animal is in care at the time you ring as to what will be available.