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The breed "with Christmas in its face" is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all the purebreds. A member of the spitz family of dogs, the Sam was discovered by fur traders in a remote area of Siberia north of the Arctic circle. The breed was named for the nomadic tribe, the Samoyedes, who used the dogs to guard flocks, to drive caribou herds, and as draft and sled dogs. Strong and upstanding, males measure up to 23.5 inches at the shoulder, females about 2 inches less. The glistening, stand-off coat should be white, cream or biscuit and needs brushing about three times a week to remove dead hair and keep the thick undercoat from matting. Heavy seasonal hair loss can make it seem as if the Sammy has brought winter snow flurries indoors. The Sam is an outdoor type that needs lots of daily exercise. The breed makes a devoted albeit independent watchdog and family pet, and loves children.