Archaeology · Samoyed
2,800-year-old cannabis users found in Siberia – the Samoyed smiles for other reasons
Der Hündeler, Edition of Thursday, 12 November 2026 (edition 2)
What happened
A researcher from Bern has detected cannabis in a grave in Siberia. The find is around 2,800 years old. It is considered the oldest direct evidence of the plant being used as an intoxicant.
What does this mean for your Samoyed?
The Samoyed comes from Siberia and has been smiling for as long as anyone can remember. Until now this was considered a breed trait; since this report, he has been getting longer looks in the street. The explanation is entirely sober: the upturned corners of the mouth are said to stop drool dripping and freezing in the cold. He smiles for reasons of frost protection, not relaxation. The only suspicious thing about him is his coat, which brings home every blade of grass from the local park. A lab sample would mostly turn up hair, since he sheds all year round.
What you can do now: If questioned, point to the corners of the mouth and Siberian winter temperatures. Brush thoroughly before visiting the in-laws.