Samoyed vs Scottish Terrier
Working · Medium vs Terrier · Small
SamoyedMedium
An adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer.
Weight: 45–65 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Scottish TerrierSmall
An independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'.
Weight: 19–22 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Samoyed is the larger breed at 45–65 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
- • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Samoyed has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
- • The Samoyed is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Samoyed | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Russia | Scotland |
Height (male) | 21–23.5" | 10" |
Height (female) | 19–21" | 10" |
Weight (male) | 45–65 lbs | 19–22 lbs |
Weight (female) | 35–50 lbs | 18–21 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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.
About the Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Samoyed health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Diabetes
- • Eye disorders
- • Heart problems
Scottish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Scotty cramp
- • Von Willebrand's disease
- • Bladder cancer