Those who are not yet familiar with Samoyeds, fondly known as Sammids, are often confused by the name of the breed. There are associations with the Russian word “samoed”, which could be translated as self-propelled. Looking at the lovely and friendly owner of a plump, snow-white coat, it’s hard to imagine how the name could be associated with her. In fact, the name of the breed originated from the Nenya word “Saam-jedna” which means “Sami land”. White dogs were once faithful friends of this northern people, even sleeping with the gentlemen and serving as “warmers.”
I invited Ramon Karklins, the owner of Kenventaki Kennel Samoyed, to find out more about these beautiful dogs.
– How did your passion for Samoyed begin?
Ramona: “Once upon a time we had a collie, then six Cocker Spaniels. When they got old and went to other hunting grounds, we decided – all, we wouldn’t do dog breeding anymore. dog shows.
We wanted another breed, a bigger dog. It was 2002, when we went with friends to the World Dog Show in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and then on our way to another show in Brno, Czech Republic – just to see what was happening there. And there I first saw the Samoyed up close. I saw and that was it, I was “sick”. Mystically, but instantly it became clear – this would be my breed!
In essence, a Samoyed is like a little devil – if you give it a little finger, he will take your whole hand. In this case, it would be more accurate to say – whole heart.
In Brno we also met Samoyed breeder Jan Fulerov from Slovakia, exchanged addresses and started correspondence. Later I bought my second and most titled dog Macho from him.
– But how did the first Samoyed come to you? Tell us more about him.
In that same year the first Samoyed Arabella (full name Alba Arabella Vidnavska Zare) came to our house. The puppy came to us from the Czech kennel “Vidnavska Zare” just before the white Christmas. Arabella, with her kindness and characteristic character of smithies, made our family smile more and become more positive.
Arabella was the first Latvian Sammy – dog therapist. When we took the exam together in Poland, the examiners noted that it was a great pleasure to see a dog doing the tasks, not because of the compulsion, but because of the likes.
Very sad for her, but unfortunately, our four-legged friends are not destined to live (a long time) under the sun. But it is with great satisfaction that her little, white puppies have come to the best of hosts, and are continuing their mum’s path of becoming good therapy dogs.
And how many dogs do you have now? Are there any favorites or favorites among them?
We currently have five sammies: Macho (12 years), Berimor (10 years), Owl (9 years), Angey (6 years) and Jerod (4 years). All of our sammies are definitely our favorites, but especially to highlight the power of Jerod and our kennel-born Angy.
Like these Arabella, both of these sammies have passed the tests, passed the exam and become therapy dogs, with whom we visit a rehabilitation center in Riga and enjoy other activities.
– What exactly are Jerod and Andijan doing at the rehab center? How do they help and whom?
Our white pets help children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, autism and learning difficulties. Children communicate with our sammies in emotionally positive and comfortable conditions, in a playful atmosphere.
By working with the dog, unconditional love and confidence develops, the child learns initiative, patience and self-control, grows his self-esteem and competence, reduces muscle spasticity and develops new reflexes.
The child does not perceive the lessons as a regular course of treatment, but simply enjoys meeting the dog. Such therapy has the potential to work wonders and help children and adults to recover. A caress, a glance, or even just a presence can be more healing than pill mountains.
What are Samoyeds like by nature? How active? What about children, other dogs and animals?
Sammy is a keen dog with a sharp mind, and is able to impress with independent decisions, non-standard behavior and his own creative approach to life. Every day is full of surprises. At times, it seems I just have to wait for some sammi to suddenly start talking. At the same time, this dog also tends to be stubborn.
Samoyeds can often be seen in the world when participating in agility or dog racing, but Samoyeds are not the fastest. In fact, this is not the most thankful breed of northern dog for the championship laurels. But compared to other northerners – Huskies or Malamutes – Samoyed is the best companion for man: among his northern brethren, the most obedient, the public, and also not so much of a wanderer.
Sammi is very friendly to people, but especially loves children and is not shy about showing her tenderness. Not for nothing else in the world are these dogs used to evoke positive emotions in people’s homes or orphanages.
They are very tolerant of other brothers of the species – they will never be the first to start a fight, nor will they be the ones who allow others to climb on their heads.
Sammi is a true friend even when the rest of the world doesn’t understand. A dog that can live anywhere, adopt any owner’s lifestyle and participate in almost any activity. Taking care of your family and participating in it with great pleasure is a top priority in Samoyed’s life.
Samoyed must know that you are nearby – come, wake up and move on.
– What are the advantages of this breed? What makes Sammi stand out positively against other breeds?
Sammi are always positive, affectionate and cheerful dogs. Very good human companions for being social and friendly.
Sammi’s fur has no dog-like odor. These dogs can be kept outdoors and indoors. It is a misconception that in the summer, this coat is difficult for the dog. This is not the case, as the fur coat serves as a thermoregulator.
This breed also boasts good health. These are durable longevity animals with a minimum life span of 12 years.
– Are there any disadvantages to the sammie?
The Samoyed is a loud dog who “chatters” a lot. Not a dog for those who need discipline as an army, unconditional obedience, a dog ready to read commands, a tiny, trained robot. If the dog has very strict requirements in terms of training and obedience, then the idea of a Samoyed dog should be discarded.
Sammi is only suitable for patient and sympathetic people who can maintain consistency in their upbringing.
It should be noted that feathers at home can look like a snowstorm at home, but only if the fur is poorly maintained. This dog is not suitable for confined space yet.