EXCLUSIVE! Katherine Heigl Is on a Mission to Save Chihuahuas—And You'll Fall Hard for These Tiny Terrors!

The actress speaks up to push adoption

We're nuts about dogs of every shape and size, but after fostering a string of Chihuahuas here at Modern Dog HQ, we'll admit we've got a weak spot for the spicy little Chi's. Did you know Chihuahuas rank among the breeds most often dumped at shelters, right after Pitbulls and American Staffordshire Terriers? In California and Arizona alone, the shelters are bursting with them. Yet the problem knows no borders—it stretches coast to coast.

These pocket-sized sweeties often get passed over for adoption thanks to a few worn-out breed myths, but truth is, no two Chihuahuas are the same. These sassy little charmers might just be your perfect match.

Jump in using the hashtag #MySmallDogIs to show off your amazing little wonder and spread the word on how adopting small breeds leads to big love. Learn more at animalcenter.org.

Samoyed: The Smiling Arctic Dog

A Guide to friendly, gentle, and versatile

This smiling sled dog is a looker, no doubt—but don’t let that snowy coat fool you. These dogs were built for brutal cold and hard labour. The Samoyed’s signature thick fur shields against Siberian cold that routinely hits minus 60. Even that famous smile has a job: the upturned mouth corners stop him drooling, so icicles don’t form on his face.

Strong and agile, these 35-to-65-pound beauties were made to pull sledges and guard and herd reindeer. They’re also deeply social and bonded to their people. One of the oldest breeds around, the Samoyed was shaped centuries ago by the nomadic Samoyed tribes of north-central Siberia, who slept curled against their dogs for warmth through arctic winters. This dog wants to stay close.

As the AKC puts it, these are “smart, social, mischievous dogs who demand love and attention. Sammies need a very firm but loving hand in training.” That said, he’s no guard dog. The Samoyed is trusting by nature—easygoing, loyal, with a sense of humour. Energetic and exuberant, he’ll run for miles if allowed, and he has a mind of his own yet stays eager to please. Like most Nordic breeds, he’s a chatterbox, and brushing (plus de-shedding!) is non-negotiable.

Independent-minded yet loyal to his family, a well-raised (read: nurtured and trained) Samoyed is an absolute dream.

Is the Samoyed right for you? Find out more at: moderndogmagazine.com/samoyed

The Differences Between the Alaskan Malamute and the Samoyed

Personality Showdown: Samoyed vs. Alaskan Malamute

Credit: The Alaskan MalamuteLGreen

Alaskan Malamutes, though affectionate too, are generally more independent and reserved. Loyal to family but often aloof with strangers, their working-dog past gives them a strong drive and a stubborn streak. Early training and socialization matter to build good habits. They also tend to be quieter than Samoyeds, with a more serious air.

Alaskan Malamutes, though affectionate too, are generally more independent and reserved.

Malamute vs. Samoyed: Exercise and Care Compared

Visual by The SamoyedZanna Pesnina / Stock photo

Both breeds need plenty of exercise to stay healthy, shaped as they were for harsh climates and tough work. But the Malamute’s larger frame and heavy-hauling history mean he needs harder workouts—long walks, runs, or weight-pulling. Samoyeds are also high-energy and love active play and running, yet they often adapt to moderate activity if their minds stay busy.

The Alaskan Malamute’s larger frame and heavy-hauling history mean he needs harder exercise.

Conclusion: The Samoyed vs Alaskan Malamute, Summed Up

In short, while the Samoyed and Alaskan Malamute share Arctic roots and some looks, they’re distinct breeds with different personalities, sizes, and jobs. The Samoyed is the smaller, more playful, social one; the Malamute the larger, more independent worker. Both make wonderful pets for active homes, but both need committed care and training to truly thrive.