BREEDING PHILOSOPHY

PRIORITIES: HEALTH, VERSATILITY, TEMPERAMENT, TYPE, & STRUCTURE

HEALTH-

Health is a top priority at Sundance Samoyeds. As an ancient breed originating with the nomadic peoples of Northwestern Siberia, Samoyeds have historically been an exceptionally hardy breed. We are privileged to enjoy this quality in our breed today. We feel that it is the duty of a Samoyed breeder not to take this good health for granted, but to diligently protect and foster this gift for future generations. All breed stock at Sundance are tested for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart defects. Individuals who do not test clear, or who have a history of other health problems that could be heritable, are not used in our breeding program.

VERSATILITY-

Samoyeds were historically a versatile working dog. They were used among Indigenous Siberian tribes for a wide variety of jobs, including herding reindeer, herding wild game during hunting expeditions, driving sledges, and companionship. This tremendous versatility is a hallmark of the Samoyed breed. We feel that this  is an essential ingredient to what makes the Samoyed a Samoyed, and what makes the Samoyed distinct from other breeds. The ability to perform each of these jobs requires a number of important skills and abilities, which create what we believe is the true Samoyed disposition and character.

Although the Samoyed demonstrated a degree of the confident independence characteristic of arctic dog temperaments, this was balanced by a strong bond and devotion to humans. There is evidence that the original purpose of the Samoyed was herding reindeer and wild game. As such, the Samoyed was a trainable dog who enjoyed a working relationship with his/her humans. Furthermore, to excel at such a wide variety of jobs required a high level of intelligence. Thus, at Sundance Samoyeds, it is our mission to contribute strength in these features of intelligence and trainability to our breed. We aim to produce well-rounded Samoyeds with the psychological characteristics that became what the Indigenous Peoples cherished most about their dogs.

TEMPERAMENT-

Consistent with the true nature of the breed, we also place utmost importance on producing dogs who are not shy or aggressive. A good working dog must have confidence and mental stability. Additionally, as dogs who lived in packs among their people, Samoyeds must also be trustworthy around all humans, and not aggressive toward other dogs. These were some of the traits that attracted us to this breed, and therefore we place a high priority on preserving these qualities for future generations.

TYPE-

Without Samoyed type, a Samoyed would not be a Samoyed. Beautiful stand-off coat, medium size, balanced facial features, and an overall picture of beauty is integral to what distinguishes this breed. We value and celebrate these features as an important component in the selection of individuals for our breeding program.

STRUCTURE-

In keeping with the Samoyed as an athletic working dog, we do not feel that a Samoyed can function properly and happily without good physical structure. Structure enables sound and effortless movement, allowing the Samoyed to work with endurance and ease. At Sundance Samoyeds, we strive for this soundness in structure and movement. We evaluate these qualities on the trail and in the show ring when choosing dogs for our breeding program.