Male vs. Female Samoyed: 5 Key Differences

Originating in Siberia and Russia, Samoyeds were once bred for herding reindeer and pulling sleds. However, modern-day “sammies” are raised simply for their loveable and energetic personality. You might have heard of these fluffy cloud dogs, but do you know the differences between male and female Samoyeds?

While both male and female Samoyeds are very similar in their disposition, they have key differences. Whether you want to own one or simply want to know the differences, we’ll help you better understand everything about each gender of Samoyed.

1. Male vs. Female Samoyed: Physical Differences

It’s no secret that one of the most significant differences between male and female Samoyeds is their physical size and appearance. While males tend to be bigger, females are smaller and have a slightly smaller build. Below, we’ll go over the differences between the two.

Male Samoyed Physical Size and Appearance

A male Samoyed grows between 21 to 23.5 inches and weighs 45 to 65 lbs. The main differences in physical appearance include the male Samoyed’s ruff. A ruff is a thick fur band around the neck, almost like a lion’s mane. Males tend to have a more prominent ruff compared to female Samoyeds. Their ruff and fur are generally less soft than females and can become coarse if poorly maintained.

Typically, male bodies are built thicker than females, and Samoyeds are no different. Male Samoyeds tend to have a heftier build due to being able to build more muscle. Their appearance is also more prominent, with blockier heads and erect ears. This gives them an overall more prominent appearance with defined features.

Female Samoyed Physical Size and Appearance

Female Samoyeds grow to be 19 to 21 inches and weigh approximately 35 to 50 lbs. Differences between the two sexes include the female having a shorter coat that is softer to the touch. Despite being the same breed, female Samoyeds also have more prominent fur on their feet than males.

Notable differences also include female’s slim bodies, which make them capable of running faster than their male counterparts. Despite having softer and thinner fur, the female sammie has less of a ruff around its neck.

Their heads are much smaller and delicate, with slimmer features. For example, their snout is often rounded, which gives the appearance of a round face. They also have more of a circular head and rounded-tipped ears.

2. Male vs. Female Samoyed: Temperament

Aside from physical appearance, these loveable fluffy creatures also vary in temperament. A dog’s temperament is primarily due to the breed and genetics, but there are also a few gender factors at play. Below, we’ll briefly explain male and female temperament differences that aren’t due to upbringing.

Male Samoyed Temperament

Regarding temperament, males tend to be much more clingy and affectionate to their owners. Other dog breeds tend to have less clingy and more independent males. However, with Samoyeds, this role is flipped.

They make excellent family dogs and often follow their owners around the home. Samoyeds are often known for being independent, but the male Samoyed enjoys the company of other pets and people. 

Additionally, male Samoyeds are known for being more stable due to not having a heat cycle. Comparatively, males tend to be more territorial, meaning they indulge in protective behavior. This includes barking, marking, and patrolling the home. Often, Samoyed males can be seen running to windows and barking at anything approaching their territory.

Marking is also more common in males, as they assert their dominance and territory. Young male Samoyeds can mark anything from household objects to even people. Training appropriate behavior from a young age is crucial in reducing this behavior.

Female Samoyed Temperament

On the other hand, female Samoyeds tend to be very independent. While still friendly, females can better handle being alone or keeping themselves entertained. Despite being as good with kids and other pets, female Samoyeds are less forgiving and sassy. Female Samoyeds are known for running away from kids and people when they dislike something.

Female Samoyed acts aggressively, flirty, and barks during the heat cycle. However, this only happens two times a year when they experience heat. Otherwise, these behaviors don’t generally occur, or at least not to the same extent.

While not territorial, female Samoyeds tend to be more inquisitive. They can get into objects and explore the house and their surroundings. If left alone, you can expect them to find many items they like. Some even go as far as keeping souvenirs from their explorations.

3. Male vs. Female Samoyed: Training

Both female and male Samoyeds are excellent at training and are quick to learn. Outcomes of training are going to differ significantly from household to household. While there are gender differences in training, the most significant impact will depend on the owner and consistency.

Samoyeds are notorious for being one of the most challenging breeds to train. So, it’s important to factor this in when deciding to get the breed.

Male Samoyed Training

Male sammies tend to be challenging to train due to their stubbornness and slower mental growth. They are often easily distracted and can only hold attention for a short period of time. Due to this, it’s recommended to only train for brief periods spread throughout the day.

In addition, males also are more difficult to teach if they haven’t been fixed. This is mainly due to higher testosterone levels. So, training not only takes longer but also is harder.

One component of training that is significantly difficult is anything that requires physical strength. For example, leash training is challenging due to a male Samoyed’s extra power. It may take longer to train in proper walking behavior.

Female Samoyed Training

Female sammies do better with training overall and tend to be more focused. While not as stubborn as males, they often will run away. They are incredibly independent and can sometimes have selective hearing. Mental maturity happens quicker than in males, which makes females quicker learners. However, when they reach maturity, the two genders tend to even out in learning ability.

4. Male vs. Female Samoyed: Health

Both male and female Samoyeds have health conditions that can affect them. Some include health conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and kidney disease. Other predisposed conditions can also be heart problems, retinal disease, and Uveodermatologic Syndrome. However, there are gender-based conditions that can affect Samoyeds.

Male Samoyed Health

Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy (SHG) is one common condition affecting males more than females. It’s a non-inflammatory disease that causes the kidneys to malfunction. Essentially, it stops the kidney from being able to filter toxins. This condition is hereditary, and while females carry the disease, males are more likely to develop symptoms.

Getting your male Samoyed neutered can lower the risk of some health conditions. One medical condition male sammies face is testicular cancer and prostate issues. While not all male Samoyeds will be affected by these conditions, those who haven’t been neutered will have a higher risk of developing these issues.

Female Samoyed Health

Female sammies don’t have as many predisposed issues due to their health. However, females deal with their heat cycle, which happens two times a year. If they aren’t spayed, then they can become impregnated by male dogs and also could experience false pregnancy. 

This is where a female dog will experience pseudo-pregnancy symptoms without actually being pregnant. False pregnancies will cause mammary gland enlargement, lethargy, periodic vomiting, and fluid retention. Fixes to this include a full ovariohysterectomy that removes the entire ovaries.

5. Male vs. Female Samoyed: Friendliness

Gender differences also appear when sammies interact with other people, children, and animals. While the Samoyed is often considered a very friendly dog, there are differences in how each gender interacts with the world. Of course, friendliness also depends on a dog’s upbringing and training.

Male Samoyed Friendliness

Male dogs almost always tend to be more protective and dominant. A male Samoyed can become aggressive about territory and fight other dogs to assert dominance. It’s often recommended that no other male dogs reside in the home because they will try to conquer one another.

One way to combat their aggressive nature is to neuter them or practice socialization from a young age. This can help them learn appropriate responses on how to react and will lessen their aggressiveness.

In terms of children, male Samoyeds are very loving of children. They can often be found following young kids around throughout the home. The main issue with male sammies is that they are very clumsy and reckless compared to females. So, it’s not uncommon for a male sammie to roughhouse when playing with kids.

Female Samoyed Friendliness

Females aren’t that aggressive but are often very cautious. A well-trained female Samoyed can handle other dogs of any breed but can give off warning nips if another gets too close. That being said, socialization must happen from a young age.

With children, female sammies are typically more tolerant and patient. While they may want to roam more and are less likely to initiate play all the time, they do make good play companions for kids. Not only are they more gentle, but they also become protective over them.

Male vs. Female Samoyed: Conclusion

Overall, Samoyeds are fun dogs, but each gender has its problems and quirks. If you’re considering choosing one or the other, you will want to weigh the differences. The breed is an excellent family dog and does well with most people.

Much of the dog’s temperament and disposition will depend on the owner. Strict training from a young age can also help aid the stubbornness that the Samoyed breed is known to have. Socializing them from a young age can also aid in their overall disposition.

Health issues do occur, but a responsible breeder can help ensure a lower risk of genetic problems. So, no matter which gender you get, you’ll be satisfied with your new fluffy cloud friend.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Abramova_Kseniya