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Samoyed vs Siberian Husky

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Photo of the Samoyed dog breed
SamoyedPhoto: Pleple2000 — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)
Photo of the Siberian Husky dog breed
Siberian HuskyPhoto: xJaM — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)

Side by side

Comparison of Samoyed and Siberian Husky
TraitSamoyedSiberian Husky
GroupSpitz and primitive typesSpitz and primitive types
SizeMediumMedium
Weight17–30 kg16–28 kg
Height at withers50–60 cm50–60 cm
Life expectancy12–14 years12–14 years
Energy
With children
With other dogs
Trainability
Grooming needs
Shedding
Heat tolerance
ApartmentNot recommendedNot recommended

Key differences

On paper, these two breeds are very close: none of the gaps in size, life expectancy or ratings is large enough to stand out.

Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.

Which one is right for you?

A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.

Apartment living
Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
Family with children
Samoyed is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
First-time owner
Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
Hot climate
Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
Active owner
Siberian Husky is the better fitBased on energy level.

Meet the two breeds

Samoyed

Famous for its 'smile' and white coat, the Samoyed is gentle, sociable and playful, but copes very poorly with heat.

Read the full Samoyed profile

Other comparisons