There’s something magical about a Samoyed their bright white coats, cheerful expressions, and cloud-like fluff make them impossible to ignore. But as enchanting as they look, their grooming needs are anything but effortless. While their coats may seem high-maintenance, with the right routine and tools, keeping a Samoyed clean and healthy is entirely manageable.

In this guide Nexus-Pets breaks down everything you need to know about Samoyed grooming—from what to do, what to avoid, and all the little tips that make a big difference.

Grooming Basics: The Dos

Proper grooming is essential to keeping a Samoyed healthy, happy, and looking majestic. Their dense double coat requires a proactive and consistent grooming routine to prevent matting, skin irritation, and excessive shedding. Here’s what every Samoyed owner should do:

• Brush regularly: Aim to brush your Samoyed at least every other day to control loose fur and prevent tangles. During heavy shedding seasons (commonly spring and fall), daily brushing is highly recommended to keep the coat manageable and your home free of fur tumbleweeds.
• Use the right tools: Equip yourself with a slicker brush for removing surface-level loose fur and a metal comb (line comb) for working through dense undercoat tangles and mats. These tools are designed specifically for double-coated breeds and make a world of difference in effectiveness and comfort for your dog.
• Brush in small sections: Don’t rush the process. Work methodically through the coat in small, manageable sections. Pay extra attention to mat-prone areas like behind the ears, around the legs and elbows, under the collar line, and between the paws. These spots are often overlooked but are most likely to develop painful mats.
• Bathe as needed—but not too often: Samoyeds don’t require frequent bathing. Bathing once every 6 to 8 weeks—or as needed when the dog is particularly dirty—is typically sufficient. Always use dog-specific shampoo and conditioner that won’t strip natural oils. Overbathing can lead to dry skin and coat damage.
• Thorough drying is critical: After a bath, ensure your Samoyed is completely dry down to the skin. Trapped moisture can lead to skin infections or hot spots. A high-velocity dog blow dryer is a worthwhile investment and much more efficient than a towel or human hairdryer.
• Trim strategically: While Samoyeds should never be shaved (their double coat provides both warmth in winter and insulation in summer), you should trim the fur around the feet, paw pads, and sanitary areas. This helps maintain hygiene and keeps your pup looking neat without compromising coat function.
• Don’t forget the small things: Regularly check and clean the ears to prevent wax buildup and infections. Brush your dog’s teeth a few times a week to maintain dental health. Keep their nails trimmed to avoid overgrowth and discomfort.

End every grooming session on a good note with treats, praise, or playtime. This builds trust and makes grooming a positive experience, which is especially important for such sensitive, people-loving dogs.

Grooming Don’ts

When it comes to grooming a Samoyed, knowing what not to do is just as important as following the right steps. Here are the key don’ts every Samoyed owner should keep in mind:

1. Never shave or clip the coat short: The Samoyed’s double coat acts as natural insulation—keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. Shaving or cutting it too short can permanently damage the coat, disrupt this temperature regulation, and expose their sensitive skin to sunburn and irritation.
2. Avoid harsh grooming tools: Tools like Furminators or rakes with sharp edges may seem effective at removing loose fur but can actually tear or damage the soft undercoat. This can result in uneven regrowth, irritation, and reduced coat protection over time.
3. Don’t leave your dog damp after bathing: Allowing your Samoyed to air dry or stay damp for extended periods can lead to painful hot spots, fungal infections, and skin irritation. Always ensure they’re completely dry—ideally with a high-velocity dryer—to keep their skin and coat healthy.

Excessive trimming especially without knowledge of canine anatomy can lead to discomfort or even injury. Areas like behind the ears, near joints, and around the hindquarters should be handled with care and ideally by someone experienced.

Professional Grooming vs. At-Home Care

Maintaining a Samoyed’s luxurious double coat requires a balanced combination of professional grooming and consistent at-home care. Understanding the role of each will help keep your dog’s coat healthy, clean, and manageable year-round.

Professional grooming: how often is enough?

Most Samoyed owners schedule professional grooming 3–4 times per year, especially during major seasonal coat blowouts. This frequency works well if regular brushing and upkeep are maintained at home. Professional sessions often include a full bath, undercoat blowout, sanitary trimming, and nail clipping.

Starting early: grooming for Samoyed puppies

Puppies don’t require full grooming right away. Instead, early visits to a groomer are more about gentle introduction to the process. A typical puppy session may include a mild bath, drying, brushing, light trimming around the paws, and coat conditioning. These early experiences help desensitize the dog and build positive grooming associations.

The importance of at-home brushing

Regular brushing at home is non-negotiable. Samoyeds shed heavily and are prone to matting, especially around the neck, behind the ears, and under the legs. Brushing 2–3 times per week (or more during shedding seasons) helps reduce tangles, control shedding, and keep the coat breathable and skin irritation-free. A professional groomer can’t replace the ongoing benefits of consistent brushing done at home.

Recommended Grooming Tools for Samoyeds

Grooming a Samoyed’s thick, double-layered coat requires the right set of tools to ensure comfort, effectiveness, and coat health. Below is a list of essential grooming supplies that every Samoyed owner should have on hand:

1. Slicker Brush: A slicker brush is ideal for removing loose fur, dirt, and small tangles from the undercoat. Its fine, bent wires penetrate deeply into the dense fur without damaging the topcoat, making it a daily go-to tool—especially during shedding seasons.
2. Metal Comb (Greyhound Comb): A sturdy metal comb helps detect and gently remove mats and tangles, especially in sensitive areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the neck. Use it after brushing to check for hidden knots that brushes may have missed.
3. Pin Brush: The pin brush is gentler than the slicker brush and works well for fluffing and finishing the outer coat. It helps maintain the Samoyed’s signature fluffy appearance while preventing breakage in the longer guard hairs.
4. Detangling Spray: A good quality detangling spray reduces friction during brushing and helps loosen mats without pulling. It also protects the coat from breakage and static, making grooming smoother and more comfortable for your dog.
5. Dog-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner: Samoyeds have sensitive skin that can dry out easily. Choose a hypoallergenic, sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner designed for double coats. Regular bathing every 6–8 weeks or as needed will keep the coat clean without stripping natural oils.
6. Nail Clippers or Grinder: Nail care is an essential part of grooming. Use high-quality nail clippers or a pet-safe grinder to trim nails regularly—typically every 3–4 weeks. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and posture issues.
7. Ear Cleaning Supplies: Use a gentle ear-cleaning solution and cotton pads to wipe the ears regularly. Samoyeds have erect ears that can trap debris and moisture, leading to potential infections if not cleaned routinely.

The key to a happy and healthy Samoyed is consistent and proper grooming. By following the dos and don’ts we’ve covered, you can keep your dog’s stunning white coat in top condition. Remember, regular brushing, the right shampoo, and a strict no-shaving rule will ensure your fluffy companion stays comfortable, beautiful, and happy all year round.