If I am not mistaken, the Samoyed dogs have originated from Lapland, so they owe their existence to Saami people. It is according to many sources I've been reading, but some say otherwise. In any case, these dogs have been called also as "Saami dogs". Samoyed people had similar dogs though. Both Saami and Samoyeds were practising reindeer herding, so they also needed similar dogs for helping in this purpose. The dogs had to have thick coat, so they would not freeze in cold winter days and nights. Dogs had to be light and not so large, so they would not drown in deep snow, but run lightly over it. The dogs had to be friendly and smart, they were the best friends to reindeer herders. They helped to control and lead reindeer crowds, running around them and barking etc. The dog had to understand herder's commands, and sometimes itself make good decisions. So this is why Samoyed, and it's related dog breeds such as Finnish laphund or some of Western Siberian laikas are known as being friendly family dogs, they sometimes were even used to guard children, if they were left alone. They also are known for smartness.