Do Miniature Samoyeds Exist? Interesting Breed Facts
By Kit Copson
Updated on
Samoyeds are easy to love, but they are too big for some people. If you’re wondering whether a small version would be possible, the truth is that Miniature Samoyeds don’t officially exist and are not recognized like other smaller versions of certain breeds—such as toy and miniature American Eskimo Dogs—are.
If a breeder claims to sell “miniature Samoyeds”, the dogs are likely to be a mix of the Samoyed and another smaller breed, perhaps one with similar features to a Samoyed. Another possibility is that unethical breeding practices have resulted in an unusually small Samoyed. Let’s dig into this further.
How Big Are Samoyeds?
According to the American Kennel Club, pure-bred Samoyeds stand between 19 and 23.5 inches tall, with females typically being shorter. They weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. This puts Samoyeds in the medium-sized category of dogs.
Neither the American Kennel Club (AKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), nor The Kennel Club makes any reference to “miniature-sized” dogs in their Samoyed breed standards.
This is in contrast to some other breeds that look similar to Samoyeds, for instance, American Eskimo Dogs. The American Kennel Club recognizes three American Eskimo Dog sizes—toy, miniature, and standard. “Miniature” Samoyeds, however, are not recognized in this way.
What Are Miniature Samoyeds?
There are a few possibilities here. A smaller Samoyed may have been created by crossing a Samoyed with a smaller dog with similar features, like an American Eskimo Dog or a Japanese Spitz, for example. An unscrupulous breeder might use this as an opportunity to market dogs as “miniature Samoyeds” without telling prospective buyers that they’re a mix of breeds.
Don’t get us wrong—mixed-breed dogs are just as wonderful as purebred dogs, but a breeder who is not honest with you is a walking red flag, and you shouldn’t give them your money. They may also be dishonest about things like health screenings and welfare standards. You might want to consider adopting a dog from a supportive rescue association instead.
What About “Runts”?
Another possibility is that a Samoyed smaller than usual was the runt (the smallest dog) of the litter, though some runts grow to be the same size as their brothers and sisters when they reach adulthood. In addition, breeders sometimes pair runts to produce dogs that are smaller than would be considered average for the breed.
This practice is most common in toy breeds, like Yorkshire Terriers and Pomeranians (breeds commonly used to create “teacup dogs”), but it sometimes happens to medium-sized dogs, too. Unfortunately, the practice of pairing runts can lead to an increased risk of health conditions, so be very careful about where you get your dog from and the reputation of any breeders you go to.
The 4 Small Dog Breeds Similar to Samoyeds
If you love Samoyeds but would like your furr-ever friend to be a little on the smaller side, you might want to consider acquiring (ideally via adoption, if possible) another breed or mix like one of these:
1. Japanese Spitz
The Japanese Spitz is a dog that can only come in one color—white. They’re around 12–15 inches tall and weigh up to 25 pounds. Their ancestors were likely German Spitz dogs. Friendly, outgoing, and with a good sense of humor, Japanese Spitz are generally said to be very family-oriented and devoted companions that also enjoy meeting new people.
2. American Eskimo Dog
These fluffs come in two colors—white and white and biscuit. Height-wise, American Eskimo Dogs can be anywhere between 9 and 19 inches since they come in three sizes (toy, miniature, and standard). They’re known for being very intelligent, affectionate dogs that get along well with not only family but also new people.
3. Pomeranian
Pomeranians can be white, but they also come in a wide variety of other colors. These toy dogs only grow to be about 6–7 inches tall and weigh up to 7 pounds. Throughout history, Pomeranians have been favored by royalty, including Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria. They’re generally considered to be vivacious, spunky, and adaptable little dogs.
4. Volpino Italiano
The Volpino Italiano is related to the German Spitz and originated in Italy. Volpinos are between 10.5 and 12 inches in height and weigh up to 16 pounds. They come in two coat colors—white and red—and are famous for being energetic yet very affectionate with their humans, though they can be quite reserved around strangers.
Final Thoughts
Miniature “Samoyeds” are typically crossbred dogs that have been paired with smaller breeds (possibly white dogs with features close to those of a Samoyed) in order to shave a few or more inches off their height. Pure Samoyeds are medium-sized dogs and, unlike other breeds like the American Eskimo Dog, the American Kennel Club does not recognize “miniature Samoyeds”.
Featured Image Credit to: Nik Tsvetkov, Shutterstock
