7. Samoyed

Samoyeds are beautiful dogs, weighing up to 65 lbs each. Their abundant, usually snow-white coat and dark eyes make them a popular breed among dog owners who value looks.

Ever the working dog, Samoyeds enjoy action and daily interaction with humans. This medium-sized breed is descended from the working dogs of the Samoyedic people of Northwest Siberia, says the Samoyed Club of America. These dogs were originally used to herd reindeer and haul sledges over the ice of the barren Arctic wasteland.

The Samoyed hasn’t forgotten his early roots. Among the Samoyedic people, he was a highly valued member of the family, and so he remains today. This breed is playful and friendly, and a fierce protector of the children and adults it loves. Samoyeds make great family pets as long as you’re willing to spend time with them daily.

Samoyeds are excellent show dogs; their intelligence and endurance actually make them prized specimens. The Samoyed’s tail is distinctive to his breed, arcing up and over his back and falling lightly to one side.

Samoyeds use their tails to help them stay warm when they’re out in the elements by curling up into a ball and tucking their tails over their noses. This is an instinctive behavior learned from years of surviving in the sub-zero temperatures of Siberia.

The Samoyed’s thick double-coat also helps to keep it warm in extremes of temperature. However, this same coat that define the Samoyed and makes him irresistible to pet owners, can also be his worst feature as he sheds it twice or more yearly.

Samoyeds are more prone to certain ailments than other breeds of dogs, including Samoyed Hereditary Glomerulopathy – a renal disease that can cause death by the time the dog turns 15 months old, according to the Samoyed Health Foundation. Other ailments that can affect this breed include diabetes, hip dysplasia and pulmonary stenosis.

Despite the drawbacks, Samoyeds remain a popular choice of both companion and show dog because of their appearance, their devotion and their playful, smiling disposition.

If you’re in the market for a Samoyed pup, expect to pay as much as $1,500.