Are Samoyeds good for apartments?

Samoyeds are very active dogs. They get bored very easily and need constant attention. They also require entertainment throughout the day. Getting a Samoyed is an earnest commitment as they need intense care. It is recommended to walk with them at least four times daily for 15-20 minutes. When Samoyed becomes bored, which may happen in a small apartment, they start chewing things around, which may be bad news if you have expensive furniture.

However, it is very much possible for you to own a happy and healthy Samoyed in an apartment. Samoyed breeders say that an apartment larger than 600 sq.ft (50m2) is adequate size capacity for raising a Samoyed. Note that they need to exercise daily. If not, Samoyeds can get very loud, which means they are bored or restless in an apartment. It is why an apartment is not usually preferred to raise a Samoyed.

Getting back to the question can Samoyeds live in apartments, the answer is yes. Samoyeds can live in an apartment, but it is never suggested if space is smaller than 600 sq.ft. (50m2). Samoyeds are very active dogs and need some space to move around inside, even if they get enough exercise outside.

Can I raise a Samoyed in an apartment?

 Though the situation is not ideal, raising a Samoyed in an apartment is doable. These dogs are very much a crowd favorite with their adorable smiles, which makes them very popular. The owners may not always have a big house with a large backyard space, and many owners have proven that you do not need them to raise a Samoyed.

But these owners have put in lots of time and effort in making sure their Samoyed get enough exercise, taking them to parks, long treks, or walks every day. Giving these dogs a chance to play and run around is very important for their health and well-being. The Samoyed dogs are commonly found in the shelter as people buy them but cannot keep up with their maintenance. So, before you decide to get a Samoyed, make sure to prepare yourself to take care of them wholeheartedly.

Living conditions for a Samoyed

To understand the perfect conditions for raising a Samoyed, we have to know the living conditions they are used to. Samoyeds originate from Siberia, which is usually associated with extremely cold, snowy climates. Siberia records temperatures of -4 to -22 Fahrenheit ( -20-30 °C). These dogs were bred to haul sleds across the cold, tundra deserts for very long distances. 

• Temperature – As mentioned above, Samoyeds can withstand very cold temperature up to -22 Fahrenheit (-30 °C). Summer temperatures in Siberia rarely cross 70 Fahrenheit ( 22 °C). Even though Samoyeds are typically made for cooler temperatures, it does not mean that they cannot withstand high temperatures. The Samoyed shed their thick, luscious coat during spring to prepare their bodies to withstand the summer heat. These dogs have naturally designed mechanisms to be able to withstand both temperatures conditions.

Keeping their cold adaptation in mind, these dogs can get easily overheated, so leaving a Samoyed out in the sun the whole day may not be a good option.
Below are some signs to look out for that signifies that your Samoyed is overheating:

1. Excessive drooling.
2. More thirsty than usual.
3. Heart rate becomes faster.
4. It becomes weak and is not as energetic and usual.
5. Bright red or darker tongue.
   

Leaving your AC turned on when your Samoyed is inside is a good decision. It will keep the Samoyed from overheating and becoming uncomfortable. If it is too hot outside, your Samoyed might not play much as it gets tired easily. Try to keep them hydrated and do not push them to work if they seem to be too tired.

• •  Space: How much space does a Samoyed need? Any pet, irrespective of breed, needs ample space to live. Keeping a pet in a small room is not only inhumane but is considered animal abuse. Samoyeds also need space to grow up healthy. They thrive well in larger areas but are adaptable enough to live in smaller apartments as well. Some breeders suggest a space of more than 600 sq.ft (50m2) for raising Samoyeds. Keep in mind the average size of the Samoyed and try to estimate your space. An average male Samoyed may grow up to a height of 24 inches (0.61 m) and a female Samoyed, up to 21 inches (0.53 m). The males may weigh 66 pounds (ca. 30 kg) and the females 45 pounds (ca. 20 kg). Samoyeds are considered medium-sized dogs, so they do not need very large spaces but enough to be able to move around.

Size capacity is one of the biggest concerns for people who want to raise Samoyeds in apartments. It is essential to know that Samoyeds can grow healthy in smaller apartments. Just make sure that there is ample space for them to move around and play a little inside the apartment.

• • Toys – Samoyeds are very active dogs. They love to run around and play. They also love to chew, especially when they are restless. They will play with almost anything, squeaky toys, old socks, water bottles, shoes. It is very easy to find a toy that your Samoyed will enjoy. In fact, some owners say that their Samoyeds prefer household items over dog toys.

Samoyeds have a habit of chewing. If your Samoyed is a heavy chewer, then consider getting a more durable toy. Choosing a toy should also depend on the size and age of your dog. Getting the usual ball and Frisbee to play catch with is a good choice and will help your dog get some exercise while having fun. You can also get them treat-dispensing toys. These are another good way to keep Samoyeds busy.

If you want more sustainable and eco-friendly options, they are also available. These toys are usually made of natural materials like the good old-fashioned wooden stick. Some companies have toys manufactured with sustainable material.

• • Training – The best way to train your Samoyed is to start when they are young. They are quite intelligent, which makes them easy to train. However, you should remember to be firm with them as they can be stubborn. Try to assert dominance while being calm and kind.

The first thing you need to do is make some rules. For example, if you do not want your Samoyed to sit on the couch, try to forbid it when they are young. Another essential thing to remember is to establish a routine. Keep proper timings for eating, exercise, rest time. Living in an apartment means you have neighbors living very close to you. If you have a Samoyed who is continuously barking, it might not be a good situation. It is where training becomes very important. Teach your Samoyed to understand the word “No bark”. For example, if a stranger visits you, it is normal for your dog to start barking. Letting them bark for a while and then telling “no” will help them understand the limit to their barking.

Another vital thing to teach your Samoyed is potty training. Living in an apartment means that you do not have the option to open your door and let your Samoyed relieve themselves out. Training your Samoyed to be able to control their bathroom needs is essential. It will take time as some owners have said that their Samoyed cannot hold until they get outside. But with proper training, they will be able to do it.

• • Bed – Most Samoyeds do not enjoy sleeping on dog beds. They prefer cold, hardwood floors near the window or AC. It may be different for different dogs. Some may occasionally sleep on their owner’s bed as they want to be close to them. Some may just enjoy relaxing on the ground, next to the owner’s bed. Dog beds usually make the Samoyed too warm to be comfortable. In case you do want to invest in a dog bed, the Karunda dog bed is a good choice as it is very sturdy and easy to clean. Since these dogs have a lot of fur, cleaning may be difficult at times.
  • Dog House – If you have the space for a dog house, it is a great choice for Samoyeds, who like staying outside. During summer, your Samoyed may enjoy staying outside if the temperature inside the house it too warm. However, it is not recommended to permanently keep your Samoyed outside since they are very social dogs that always need human affection. Some owners have said that their Samoyed sometimes suffer from separation anxiety. So keeping your dog outside is not a very nice thing to do.

However, if you live in a place where summer is comparatively hot, then getting a dog house is a brilliant idea. Keep in mind the size of the dog house. It should be spacious enough for your Samoyed but not too big that it does not warm up. The ideal size for a dog house is 10 cm higher than your dog.

Opting for a wooden dog house will be best to help with insulation. Even though a plastic dog house might be cheaper and easier to clean, a wooden dog house would better protect your dog from heat and cold. Remember to install the dog house under some shade, like under a tree to help protect it more from sun and snow. If you decide to get a dog house, make sure to get your dog accustomed to it at a young age.

• Eating Area – It is essential to give a Samoyed their own space for eating. Consider allocating a separate eating area in the house, especially if you have other pets as well. Keep their food and water bowl in a specific area. They would associate that area with eating and will become comfortable eating there.

Can Samoyeds be left alone?

The answer to this question is yes, Samoyeds can be left alone but not for too long. You can leave your Samoyed alone for 4-5 hours maximum. More than that, your Samoyed will begin to get restless and anxious. These dogs are very social. Because they are herd dogs, they are used to having people and other animals around them. Leaving your Samoyed along for the whole day is a bad idea. They are very much attached to their owners and do not do well when they are away from them for too long.

Also, keep in mind that these dogs need to go out for bathroom breaks. If you leave them alone for the whole day and there is no one to let them out, it will result in an unpleasant surprise.

If you leave your Samoyed alone for longer than advised, be prepared for some excess barking. Also, these dogs might start chewing things when they get anxious. 

If you have to leave your Samoyed alone, owners suggest working them out first so they will be tired. Take them for a walk or run. It will use up all the excess energy in their bodies and decrease the chances of being active and naughty in their time alone. 

Do Samoyeds have separation anxiety?

It is common for a Samoyed to suffer from separation anxiety. These dogs become irritable and restless when left alone for too long. They will start chewing and barking incessantly. Separation anxiety usually arises when your dog is still a puppy. They will begin to howl and bark when you leave them alone in a room. Samoyeds are known to have strong bonds with humans, even during their early days in Siberia. They are very attached to humans, which is why they are prone to suffer from separation anxiety. Some signs that your pet suffers from separation anxiety are:

1. Incessant barking and howling.
2. Destructive chewing
3. Restlessness.
4. Walk with ears down.
5. Not eating properly.
6. Constant digging.
7. Sometimes uncontrollable defecation.

Samoyeds may also show these signs if they see something that associates with you leaving them. For example, they might begin to whine when they see you put on your coat or shoes.

There are some things you could do as the owner to help your pet handle separation much easier. The first is to try to make them associate your leaving as something positive. Do not give them extra attention before you leave, as this will make things worse. Try leaving the room, but continue talking to them. It will help them to know you are still there even though they cannot see you. You could also leave the television or radio turned on when you leave the room.

If the situation gets very bad and you do not have a choice, get a dog sitter. That way, your Samoyed will never be left alone.

Related questions:

Q:How do you make your Samoyed stop barking?

Samoyeds are known to bark a lot. The Samoyed topped the list of the highest barking dogs with 52.8 barks a day. When you get a Samoyed, you have to be prepared for the barking. But this can be controlled with proper training. A dog barks when its energy level is high, so when your Samoyed is having a barking fit, try to keep calm.

There are a few ways to stop your Samoyed from barking. One method is by exercising your Samoyed to get rid of the excess energy. Take them out for a walk or a run. You could play with them for some time and get their bodies moving. Usually, a tired dog rarely has the energy to bark. Teach your Samoyed to understand the phrase “No barking”. If they begin to bark, you could get them a treat and hold it patiently, using that phrase. When they stop, you can give them the treat. Repeat this, and after a few times, they will begin to understand the command.

Q: Can I leave a Samoyed and a baby together?

Samoyeds are perfect family dogs. Their loving, gentle nature makes them a good breed for families with children. They enjoy playing with children as they tend to have the same energy as the Samoyed. However, leaving your child or baby alone with any dog is never advised. Even though your Samoyed might be very well-trained and may love children, you never know what could happen if you leave them alone. It is very important, especially in the case with a newborn baby, as your Samoyed is not accustomed to the baby’s scent yet.

Also, babies are unpredictable and loud. It might cause your Samoyed to become frustrated or alarmed. You should make sure that your Samoyed is well adapted to your baby before letting them come close. Most Samoyed owners have talked about their Samoyeds becoming protective of the baby. This is not uncommon, especially if you introduce the two correctly.