Anatolian Shepherd vs Samoyed

Working · Giant vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
  • The Samoyed typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Anatolian Shepherd sheds less.
  • The Samoyed is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdSamoyed
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
TurkeyRussia
Height (male)
29"21–23.5"
Height (female)
27"19–21"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs45–65 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Samoyed

The Samoyed is an adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer. Originally from Russia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–65 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, friendly, gentle.

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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Samoyed health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Diabetes
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems