If you are thinking about adopting or buying one of these beauties, there are some factors to consider before bringing one home.  They were originally bred to be working dogs in extremely cold climate.  Working dogs need to expend their energy, which means they’ll need lots of physical exercises.  Does that match your lifestyle?  Can you spend that much time to make sure your Samoyed has plenty of physical activities?

What are Samoyeds like?

Michele Welton on Your Pure Bred Puppy writes an informative article about Samoyed’s temperament.  Of course this is a general description.  Like us, each dog is an individual and has his own personality.  In general, Samoyeds are gentle beings who like the company of humans.  In fact, if they are left alone too long, they can get bored and start chewing up things.  

However, if you provide enough opportunities for them to exercise, it helps them to vent their energy.  Also, this breed used to work closely with the Samoyede tribe.  When dogs work closely with people, especially in harsh climate, sometimes the dogs have to make decision in the interest of their humans.  This means they have a mind of their own.  How comfortable are you with this quality?  

Some Samoyeds have an instinct to chase animals that are running away from them, such as deer and livestock.  Having a fence in your yard will help.  Samoyeds also shed a lot.  Their hair will be everywhere.  Make sure this is something you can live with.  Or always wear white.  Samoyeds also can bark a lot.  Do not leave them alone outside.  They have a high-pitch voice, and their barking can annoy neighbors.  You can learn more about Samoyeds here.

Enjoy watching these fluffy 1-month-old Samoyed puppies.

Article source:  Michele Welton on Your Pure Bred Puppy

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Soon enough, this puppy will figure out his biggest asset to get whatever he wants in life–his pleading eyes.  Just look at those eyes!  Can you say no to a treat?  Or will you stay mad at him for long?  While a hound may be too much dog for some, the Basset Hound is a different story.

What is a Basset Hound like?

His good nature makes him a wonderful family companion, a his short legs slow him down, unlike the other hounds.

Part of the name, Basset Hound, comes from a French word “bas” meaning “low.”  That makes sense, seeing how he is low to the ground.

This is a dog who is never in a hurry.  A long walk with him would make him extremely happy because he loves to stop and smells the roses, as well as interesting scents along the path.  The highly intelligent Basset Hound knows how to manipulate our emotions, according to Vetstreet.  They use “helpless” body language and wag their tails a lot as their tools of persuasion. If they want us to let them stay on the couch longer, they just roll over on their back, moan, and make eye contact with those puppy eyes.

Because the Basset is so guided by his nose, he can lead himself into danger, like crossing a street or escaping under a fence and follow an interesting scent that’s far from home.  To protect him, have a fence that is secure.  Help him use that wonderful scent by participating in tracking–following human scent.  Or maybe Basset field trials. You can read more about Basset Hounds here.

Article source:  Vetstreet

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As it turns out, Hoshi and Zen became the best of friends.  They go everywhere together, do everything together, even bathe together.  Not having his sight does not affect Hoshi’s travels.  He still travels around the world hiking, camping, and kayaking with his parents.  Zen walks slowly beside him, guiding him every step of the way.  Hoshi’s parents described that the two have a special bond that’s beyond friendship.

How to help dogs adjust to blindness

Dr. Foster and Dr. Smith write in Pet Education that there are ways we can help our dog adjust to his blindness.  Know that our dog’s blindness is harder on us than our dog.  They live in the moment, and have no connotations about blindness.  Sight is actually number 3 in order of importance.  The other two are hearing and sense of smell.

Talk to your dog often and in your normal, cheerful voice.  Your voice soothes him.  Let him know you are approaching by talking to him and walking more heavily so he can hear you.  An option is to wear a little bell around you and other family members, so your dog knows that you are approaching and about to touch him.  Keep his normal routine.  Go for walks.  Have him play with his favorite toy.  He will pick up on your emotions.  And this will play a big role in his adjustment to his new ability.  You can read the entire article here.

Article source:  Dr. Foster and Dr. Smith in Pet Education

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