So, you’ve adopted yourself a Samoyed – Firstly, congratulations, secondly, hopefully, you are ready for a wild ride. This breed is not quite like any other. Smart, sweet, loyal, loving, and yes, they can sometimes be a handful, that is, unless you do your due diligence of course. Now, that’s not to say it is a bad breed, they actually happen to be one of the best, but it does take a special type of hooman to properly care for a Samoyed – particularly with regards to training them.
15 Must-Know Samoyed Training Tips
15. Consistency Is Key
This is more of a general dog training rule, but still a good and valid one. One of the most important aspects of animal training is practicing consistency. This helps keep the animal from getting overwhelmed or confused, as well as helping them learn the lessons quicker. As you will read below, switching up your training methods is also important. Find the middle ground, have a structure to the process, but also make it interesting to keep them invested. It can be tricky, which is what the experts are for, and there is no shame in calling them in if needed.
14. Harsh Training Methods Are Not Necessary
While it is obviously never okay to hit or strike any pet, it can be even more detrimental when dealing with this breed, in particular. They can be very sensitive and harsh training methods can cause mistrust and resentment, which will not only obstruct any progress but will very likely lead to severe behavior issues. A firm command will typically suffice, especially when used in conjunction with other tried and true methods.
13. Use Your Words
Voice commands tend to work the most effectively, and due to the breeds’ well-known barking and howling problems, ‘quiet’ and/or ‘settle’ should be the first commands taught on the list. At the beginning of the training stages, it is best to have one person designated as the ‘alpha’ (this should also be the one with the strongest bond with the pet). This is the person who will handle training exercises and will initially give commands. As your pooch gets used to it all, then other helpers, or students, can be introduced into the mix.
12. Incorporate Their Natural Sociability
While some dogs do better in a solitary training situation, the Samoyed flourishes in the company of others. They are able to maintain focus and learn, even in the midst of other dogs and owners. This makes them an ideal candidate for obedience classes. In most cases, you will want to get the basic one-on-one commands at least somewhat down before bringing him to a classroom environment with distractions. This is very helpful in avoiding possible – and unnecessary – disruptions and chaos.
11. The Earlier, The Better
With any dog, the earlier that you can start the training process, the better for everyone it will be. Getting him started as a puppy is, of course, preferable, but the Samoyed is a highly intelligent breed, one that should catch on quickly, regardless of age. However, even an adult dog needs to have clear, set boundaries, these need to be established when first being introduced to your household. Everything successful has been built on a sturdy foundation – and this is quite true when it comes to training as well, remember that.
10. Remember – Samoyeds Are A Working Breed
Dogs classed as a working breed have their own set of needs. This means that they were bred for action and herding, and as such, they have the high energy to reflect that. While you may not have any animals that need herding, your Samoyed does still need to expend that energy in some way. These dogs need quite a bit of exercise and a lot of attention. Without it, you will likely end up with a frustrated, bored, and destructive Sammy.
09. Nip Any Nipping In The Bud
Samoyeds have been known to display nipping behaviors, likely due to their herding background. However, it does need to be corrected as soon as possible. The older they get the harder it is to break certain bad habits. A firm ‘no’ typically works and should be followed up with a timeout if it does not. This nipping behavior is also one of the reasons that small children should not be left alone with young, not-so-well-trained Samoyed.
08. Switch It Up To Avoid Boredom
As one of the more intelligent breeds, these dogs can get bored quite easily. Training sessions should be switched up to keep him interested, whether it be changing methods, the setting, or both. You’ll basically want to avoid being too repetitive. By all means, keep some structure to the lesson but also try to keep his interest up as well.
Be Sure To Check Out 15 Spectacular Samoyed Facts!
07. Learn The Breeds Behaviors
Not only are all breeds distinctive in their traits and habits, but each dog is an individual too. First and foremost, you need to learn the common behaviors of the Samoyed breed in general, but you should also take the individual characteristics of the dog, once you get to know them, into account as well. Once you have truly gotten to know your specific pup, simply adjust your training methods accordingly.
06. Environment Makes A Difference
It would be hard for anyone to learn in a crazy and/or hectic environment, but dogs are even more easily distracted. Pick an area with few distractions, somewhere quiet. This should be, at least in the beginning, the designated training place. When your Samoyed enters this room, he should know that it is time to get down to business. As training progresses and he gets accustomed to obeying your commands, you could consider signing him up for more of a social, group training environment, like training courses or obedience classes.
05. Be Aware Of Separation Anxiety
Samoyeds tend to form close bonds and attachments with their ‘people’. It makes for a great relationship with your precious pooch but it can also result in him developing what is referred to as separation anxiety. Your dog can feel strong feelings of anxiety, or even panic when left alone for any significant amount of time. This sometimes causes your normally well-mannered furball to become agitated and destructive leading to high levels of barking and howling, as well as chewing, and destroying property. Providing him with a friend or sibling sometimes helps but he also needs to be trained to deal with your absence in a healthy and positive way.
04. Kennel Training Is An Excellent Tool
Kennels are not for all dogs but they can definitely come in handy when training your Samoyed. Getting him acquainted and comfortable with being in his kennel can reduce separation anxiety symptoms and provide him with a ‘safe space’ for when he is not in the mood to socialize (or is in trouble). This crate-shaped tool also does wonders for potty training your furry friend too!
03. Consider A Playmate/Sibling
Two Samoyeds are always better than one – that’s a given. But aside from being double the cuteness, it can, additionally, be very healthy to have a like-minded companion around, especially when you, his favorite hooman, are not able to be. Keep in mind: All pets should be spayed or neutered, of course, but this is even more important in a household with multiple dogs of the opposite sex. Puppies are cute and all but there are already too many unwanted furballs in need of a fur-ever home.
02. Be Sure All Of His Specific Needs Are Being Met
Everyone has basic needs and your Samoyed is no exception to the rule. And, if his needs are not being met, it can cause him to act out. So, in order to have a well-behaved, happy, healthy, Samoyed, all of his needs must be met. It is your job to look out for his safety, and physical, and emotional well-being. Love, protection, attention, exercise, and food and water – and you will have yourself one uber-happy (and super cute!) puppy!
01. Learn To ‘Listen’ To Your Samoyed
All Sammy owners will most certainly agree on at least one thing – these dogs are some of the most vocal of the breeds out there. They use everything at their disposal to get their point across. Howling, barking, whimpering, ‘talking’ (no, seriously), pawing, digging, and general body language are all communication tools in the Samoyeds’ arsenal. Pay attention to what he is trying to tell you, he typically knows what he’s talking about. Enjoy your Samoyed, you couldn’t have chosen a more perfect fur friend!
conclusion: Must-Know Samoyed Training Tips
Training your Samoyed can be a fulfilling journey that leads to a well-behaved and happy companion. These beautiful and intelligent dogs thrive in a positive and structured training environment.
FAQ: Must-Know Samoyed Training Tips
Are Samoyed dogs easy to train?
Samoyed dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, which can make them relatively easy to train for owners who use positive reinforcement techniques. These dogs tend to respond well to rewards such as treats, praise, and playtime.
How do you bond with Samoyed?
Bonding with your Samoyed is essential for building a strong and trusting relationship. These friendly and social dogs often form deep bonds with their owners.
What do I need to know about Samoyed dogs?
Samoyed dogs are beloved for their friendly, fluffy appearance and affectionate nature.
