The Samoyed was developed as a working dog. The centuries of development behind this breed drastically reduced most hereditary medical conditions. As with any dog breed congenital problems can occur, however, a well bred Samoyed, from a healthy bloodline, is your best assurance of obtaining a quality pup.
     Before you purchase a Samoyed pup, be sure to see the OFA or Penn-Hip certification on both parents.

Hip Dysplasia
     The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise the animal can lead a full and active life. In more severe cases surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see: Medical Index/ Hip Dysplasia.

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