Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Samoyed

Toy · Small vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Samoyed is the larger breed at 45–65 lbs (males) vs 13–18 lbs for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielSamoyed
Group
ToyWorking
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandRussia
Height (male)
12–13"21–23.5"
Height (female)
12–13"19–21"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs45–65 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, gentle, graceful spaniel — bred as a lapdog companion to British royalty. Originally from England, this small toy breed typically weighs 13–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, gentle, graceful.

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.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Syringomyelia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Samoyed health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Diabetes
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems