Dog breed comparison
Samoyed vs Siberian Husky
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The Samoyed is the bigger breed, about 3 kg heavier on average.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Samoyed | Siberian Husky |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Working Dogs | Working Dogs |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Height | 19 inches to 24 inches tall at the shoulder | 20 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 50 to 60 pounds | 35 to 60 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 14 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Barking
The Siberian Husky barks more than the Samoyed.
Easy to train
The Samoyed is easier to train than the Siberian Husky.
Shedding
The Samoyed sheds more than the Siberian Husky.
Easy to groom
The Siberian Husky is easier to groom than the Samoyed.
First-time owners
The Samoyed suits first-time owners better than the Siberian Husky.
Copes alone
The Samoyed copes better when left alone than the Siberian Husky.
Which to choose
Samoyed or Siberian Husky?
Choose the Samoyed if…
- You want a dog that barks less
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that suits first-time owners better
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
Choose the Siberian Husky if…
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that is easier to groom
- You want a dog that tends to have fewer health problems
Questions.
Is the Samoyed or the Siberian Husky bigger, and which lives longer?
The Samoyed is the bigger breed, about 3 kg heavier on average. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Samoyed or the Siberian Husky?
The Samoyed is generally easier to train than the Siberian Husky. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Samoyed or the Siberian Husky?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Siberian Husky sheds less than the Samoyed. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
