German Shorthaired Pointer vs Samoyed

Sporting · Large vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • German Shorthaired Pointer is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 45–65 lbs for the Samoyed.
  • The Samoyed typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer sheds less.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGerman Shorthaired PointerSamoyed
Group
SportingWorking
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
GermanyRussia
Height (male)
23–25"21–23.5"
Height (female)
21–23"19–21"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs45–65 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.

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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German Shorthaired Pointer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye conditions
  • Lymphedema

Samoyed health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Diabetes
  • Eye disorders
  • Heart problems