Samoyed vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Samoyed and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Samoyed
Always smiling and brimming with energy, this affectionate dog loves being part of an active family. A thick, plush coat and gentle spirit make the Samoyed a devoted companion.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
20–30 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
12–14 years
16–20.5 kg
High energy
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Samoyed
Affectionate and sociable with people and dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
Very active, needs regular vigorous exercise
Loves games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to new situations and routines
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Samoyed
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Samoyed
Challenging for novices
Their grooming and exercise needs can overwhelm inexperienced owners
Needs more space
Samoyeds require room to move and can be noisy in small apartments
Excellent match
They thrive with active families who enjoy outdoor activities and frequent exercise
Very friendly
Gentle, playful, and patient with children, making them a good family companion
Generally compatible
Usually sociable with other pets if socialized early and consistently
Not recommended
They dislike being alone and may develop destructive behaviors or separation anxiety
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Samoyed
- Friendly with people and other dogs
- High tolerance for cold weather
- Intelligent and eager to learn
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Generally healthy and hardy breed
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Samoyed
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Can be stubborn during training sessions
- High exercise needs for physical health
- Strong prey drive may chase small animals
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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