ARE SAMOYEDS EASY TO TRAIN?

Are Samoyeds Hard to Train?

Certain dog breeds are easier to train than others. This is not because they’re more intelligent, far from it, but because they have a less independent temperament and are therefore more willing to obey commands. The Samoyed is quite special; this is an ancient, primitive dog breed and a type of spitz. As such, this breed retains instincts that other more modern and modified breeds either never had or no longer have. A former hunting dog, for example, the Samoyed still has a fairly developed predatory instinct as well as a strong will and stubborn nature. Traits like these may lead your pooch to refuse to listen to you. The important thing is to establish a good relationship of trust with your Samoyed. This is the best way to ensure that your dog listens to you and responds well to your commands. In any case, training your dog is an essential step that allows your Sammie dog to evolve serenely in its environment and makes your daily life lots easier.

Is it Possible to Train an Adult Samoyed?

In general, puppies are more receptive to dog training than adult dogs. After all, they still have everything to learn! But that doesn’t mean it’s not possible to train and socialise an adult Samoyed. Dogs can learn new tricks at any age, the approach will just be different with an older dog. Bear in mind the fact that older dogs may come with lots of history, such as bad habits or hidden trauma that need to be dealt with or unlearned. If you’re adopting an adult dog, we strongly recommend you use a professional dog trainer to help you.

How to Train a Samoyed?

Training your Samoyed should begin as soon as you welcome your new puppy home, at the age of 2 months old. It’s important to be clear and set boundaries right from the start. Put rules in place and try not to deviate from them. Remember that your baby Samoyed will very quickly become a lot bigger once it reaches full size. So, prohibit your Samoyed puppy from doing anything you wouldn't want it doing later on. It will be much easier to grant permission later, for things like sleeping in the bedroom or sitting on the sofa, than to withdraw permission granted too early. Bad habits are hard to fix! You also need to establish a clear hierarchy within your family. Use your natural authority and be firm with your furball but never violent. This statement holds true for all dogs. Punishment should have no place in your dog training routine.

Samoyed Training Tips

Always keep a positive approach to training your Samoyed. Ban all types of punishment, both physical and verbal. The most important thing is to encourage positive behaviour, rather than reprimand negative behaviour. This means reinforcing good behaviour with healthy dog treats, cuddles, or playtime, and ignoring poor behaviour completely. If your pooch misbehaves, you can also take its toys away or deny treats. At the same time, familiarise yourself with the basic principles of dog training: patience, coherence, and consistency!

Be Patient 

Patience is key for any dog owner looking to train their pooch. Your puppy still has a lot (read: everything!!) to learn. But however smart, your Samoyed cannot be expected to understand everything right away. Don’t try to rush things. Take it step by step and repeat exercises with your dog until they’re well integrated. Then, move on to the next. Be gentle and try not to get cross with your Sammie if they don’t understand what you want immediately.  

Be Coherent

It’s important not to confuse your new pooch. Choose commands that are short and easy to remember and to stick to them along the way. Each action or request should be clear and simple and correspond to a specific word, which is easy for your dog to understand. If you contradict yourself, your Samoyed will only get annoyed and refuse to obey.

Be Consistent

As is the case with most things in life, repetition over time is the only way to achieve concrete results when training your Samoyed. Set aside fifteen minutes a day to practise new or previously learned exercises. Take advantage of your daily walks and playtime to reinforce the lessons your dog has learned.

Which Basic Commands Should I Teach My Samoyed?

There are two basic commands which are essential for all dogs. These are coming back when you call and walking to heel. Prioritise these commands over the rest:

• Come: This command helps you call your dog back to you if it wanders off. It can help keep your dog safe and prevent accidents. The Samoyed retains a predatory instinct and a strong will so it may well decide to go off in search of prey. As such, it’s essential that your dog knows to come back when you call. Unfortunately, however, this determined dog breed doesn't always listen. To avoid mishaps, don’t let your Sammie off the lead unless you’re sure the area is enclosed or that your dog has learned to obey you.

• Heel: Your dog needs to learn how to walk to heel properly, without pulling on the lead or zigzagging, as it could wind up injuring you or itself. This is all the more important if you live in the city with your Samoyed. Keep your dog on a fairly short lead to give you more control.