Samoyed vs Yorkshire Terrier
Working · Medium vs Toy · Toy
SamoyedMedium
An adaptable, friendly, gentle smiling Siberian — bred by nomadic Samoyed people to herd reindeer.
Weight: 45–65 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Yorkshire TerrierToy
A feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Quick take
- • Samoyed is the larger breed at 45–65 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
- • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Samoyed | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Toy |
Size | Medium | Toy |
Origin | Russia | England |
Height (male) | 21–23.5" | 7–8" |
Height (female) | 19–21" | 7–8" |
Weight (male) | 45–65 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 35–50 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 11–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | 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. | 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) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.
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Samoyed health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Diabetes
- • Eye disorders
- • Heart problems
Yorkshire Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Tracheal collapse
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental disease