Competition Obedience
Samoyeds are not famous for obedience, like the Nordic dogs in general. This is not for lack of intelligence or goodwill — they are just very independent dogs.
Sammies can learn and compete in obedience — as long as you train appropriately and you don’t mind surprises. For example, in 1997 (the year Nico did it) there were five Samoyeds who earned
the title of Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) in American Kennel Club obedience trials (and 262 Golden Retrievers). Two Samoyeds earned the Utility Dog title (UD) (and 120 Golden Retrievers
did). At the higher levels of competition, it is not so much about blind obedience as about teamwork, respect, and mental challenges like staying focused and attentive.
I recommend that every dog and owner earn the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate. This is a non-competitive title earned by passing a test in the basic good manners needed for a dog in
public places, and at home. Please help to reverse the tide of bad publicity for dogs by training your dog in basic manners; and demonstrating to the public what a pleasure a well-behaved dog
can be.
Agility
Agility is a dog sport where the dog runs an obstacle course at the direction of the handler, competing on both speed and accuracy. The handler uses voice, body language, and body
signals to direct the dog over the course at high speed. It takes a lot of fast teamwork and the dog has to be able to work at a distance from the handler. The dogs love it. Some Samoyeds have excelled at agility.
Freestyle
Freestyle is a new canine sport — dancing with your dog. It combines obedience work with tricks and other interesting moves for the dog. The human and canine team perform a routine to a piece of music. Fiona and I trained in canine freestyle, and went to some freestyle competitions together.
I belong to the World Canine Freestyle Organization.
Carol Tenny Dog Training and Teaching 