As winter descends and the temperature begins to plunge, certain dog breeds find themselves in their element, while many dogs enjoy the warmth of the indoors, others come alive in the cold, eagerly anticipating their next snowy escapade. These breeds have adapted over generations to withstand frigid climates, adorned with thick fur coats, robust physiques, and an instinctive affection for the snow.
In this post, we will delve into 17 dog breeds not only endure the chill of cold weather but positively thrive in it. If you seek a companion well-suited to frosty climates, these breeds could very well be your ideal match.
1. Siberian Husky
No breed of dog is more representative of cold-weather capability than the Siberian Husky. His thick double coat serves him well in frigid temperatures.
Originally bred in Siberia to pull sleds over the great expanses of the snowy country, the Huskies adapted very well to cold conditions. Energetic, playful, and endurance are three words often used to describe the Siberian Husky.
Siberian Huskies excel in outdoor activities as they continue playing in the snow for hours without feeling cold or bothered. His thick coats help a lot in retaining heat, and they also manage to wick off moisture, making it superb for the snow trip.
A Siberian Husky might just be your best friend if you live in cold regions and enjoy winter sports, too. You need to be prepared to keep up with their high energy and exercise demands.
2. Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan malamutes are another breed artistically designed for cold temperatures. They are larger and more powerful than their fellow Siberian brothers, originally developed to carry heavily laden landscapes across the country.
Redecked with dense waterproof coats and powerful physics, they stand out with an origin and a preference for areas with cold and snow. Furthermore, Malamutes pull with awesome strength and endurance that is tireless.
Dogs normally epitomize loyalty, friendliness, and family ability but need ample space coupled with some good regular exercise. They highly dig and will readily play in the snow; their greatest joy comes from when they can do all these in the open space during the cold winter months. If you want a cold-weather companion that has a gentle temperament and loves the outdoors, then an Alaskan Malamute would be perfect.
3. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are famous for their storied history as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, and with their imposing size and thick, luxurious coats, they have been perfectly designed to withstand the harshest of cold climates. These gentle giants were first bred to locate and save lost travelers across treacherous snowy mountain passes. Nowadays, they retain their love of winter's chill and their instinct to protect.
They are calm, patient, and great with children who are genuinely family dogs. Saint Bernards love the winter and must be walked in the open air, outside. Their large paws help them circulate in deep snow. But since they are huge, the dogs need a good space for movement and regular exercise to keep fit. Among dogs that have a natural inclination towards cold climates and have sweet and gentle dispositions, Saint Bernard stands out.
4. Bernese Mountain Dog
Another breed that does well in cold weather is the Bernese Mountain Dog. Native to the stunning Swiss Alps, this dog comes equipped with a thick, tri-colored coat that provides great insulation against the cold.
Originally, the Bernese Mountain Dog was a farmworking dog, pulling carts over the mountainous terrain, and helping around the farm in one of the more rugged areas. These dogs are known for their gentle, affectionate nature and strong work ethic and are great with families and enjoy being active, especially in cooler weather.
Their thick coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting, but it also allows them to comfortably enjoy winter activities. If you’re looking for a large, loyal dog that loves cold weather, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a perfect choice.
5. Newfoundland
The Newfoundlands are giant, powerhouse dogs that have gained popularity for their exceptional swimming skills and affection for cold weather. Initially bred to assist fishermen in their navigation through the icy waters of Newfoundland, these dogs possess a thick, water-resistant coat, ensuring that they remain warm in freezing temperatures.
They are truly gentle giants that are renowned for their amiability and instinctive protectiveness, are great with children, and simply make very nice family dogs. They love to play in the snow and can withstand nippy weather due to their thick, plush coats.
However, they do need regular grooming to maintain their coat in prime condition. For those living in colder regions who desire a canine that is robust yet affectionate and gentle, the Newfoundland is truly worthy of being considered as one of the best options.
6. Tibetan Mastiff
Happily living in cold weather, the breed of the Tibetan Mastiff was originally developed to guard livestock across the harsh and mountainous regions of Tibet. They have a thick, double coat that protects them from the extreme cold. Traditionally, Tibetan Mastiffs have been independent, strong, and fiercely protective canines that command respect.
These dogs live in canines, are not only comfortable in cold weather but prefer it, and are loyal and protective, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they can be quite independent and require an experienced owner who understands their unique temperament. If you’re looking for a cold-weather dog that is both majestic and protective, the Tibetan Mastiff is a great option.
7. Samoyed
The Samoyed is a very famous breed, being pretty fluffy and white, and very fond of cold weather. Originating from Siberia, these dogs were bred to herd reindeer and drag sleds into some of the most frigid climates on the planet. Their thick, double-layered coat warms them in freezing temperatures while giving them a charming smiling visage.
Samoyed is an affectionate and playful breed, perfect for a family with a zest for activity and loves to be outside, especially when there is snow. However, their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting but also presents no difficulties with so much snow for winter amusements. When it comes to a dog epitomizing beauty, warmth, and an affinity for the chill of winter, the Samoyed is one of a kind.
8. Keeshond
The Keeshond is of medium size, with a double, thick coat meant for the cold. The breed originated in the Netherlands as a barge dog, though it is now known for its friendliness and handsomeness. His plush coat gives him good insulation and keeps him quite well-adapted to cold weather.
Keeshonds are affectionate, intelligent, and great with children and they love to be active and will love spending much time outdoors, even in cold weather. The coat needs regular grooming, but this keeps it in good shape and also allows it to stay warm during winter excursions. Keeshonds are friendly dogs, which just love the cold weather and look different from all the other canines.
9. Alaskan Klee Kai
Alaskan Klee Kai has absolutely everything in common with cold-loving Alaskan Huskies but is smaller and more miniature. This breed has two coats that are lush and rather cheerful, so it will feel more comfortable in cold climates. Alaskan Klee Kai is a companion dog that looks just like a Husky but is produced in a much smaller size.
These dogs are celebrated for their remarkable agility, keen intelligence, and playful disposition. They revel in outdoor adventures and thrive in colder climates, where their thick coat ensures they remain warm and comfortable.
Alaskan Klee Kai is an excellent choice for anyone who adores the striking appearance and spirited nature of a Husky but desires a smaller, more versatile companion. For those in search of a cold-weather friend brimming with personality, the Alaskan Klee Kai proves to be an outstanding option.
10. Akita
The Akita is a strong and loyal breed whose ancestry derives from the rugged mountainous areas of Japan and was originally adapted for hunting larger games in very cold climates. With its double-thick fur coat, Akitas provides extraordinary insulation in cold weather conditions, making it a perfect fit for very cold weather, and is noted for its bravery, loyalty, and tenacious spirit.
Akitas are independent in their dealings and protection, making them great at guarding dogs requiring much outdoor activity. Spending time in the cold atmosphere and exploring the surroundings makes them a happy dog.
They require a firm and experienced owner to handle their strong personality. Looking for a cold-weather dog that is regal and fiercely loyal, the Akita is the choice dog.
11. Chow Chow
Possessing a thick, lion-like mane, it is no surprise the Chow Chow is known for its distinctive appeal. Hailing from northern China, these dogs come equipped with a dense double coat designed to shield the cold, making them particularly adapted to cooler climates.
These dogs are iconic for their spirit of independence; they have a mind and personality of their own. Chow Chows display a stupendous loyalty and protective nature, although they tend to be rather aloof with strangers. They enjoy frequent outdoor activities and excel in cooler weather where their thick coat will keep them well-insulated and at ease.
However, this beautiful fur will require regular grooming in order not to matt and sustain its great quality. For anyone looking for a cold-weather companion who will turn heads and remain loyal to them, the Chow Chow will be an excellent choice.
12. Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund, with its dense double coat, could be easily said to suit very cold conditions. They were herding reindeer in the Arctic regions of Finland, hence valued for their agility, intelligence, and friendly temperament in breeding. The coat does not only keep them warm; it also protects the dog from harsh winter conditions.
Finnish Lapphunds are affectionate and great with families, making them wonderful companions for those who live in colder climates. They are active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities, particularly in the snow, where they can use their natural herding instincts. If you’re looking for a cold-weather dog that combines intelligence, friendliness, and a love for the outdoors, the Finnish Lapphund is an excellent choice.
13. Shiba Inu
A small, strong dog, the Shiba Inu is a breed native to Japan and well adapted to cold conditions. Small in size but well balanced, Shiba Inu has a dense double coat that offers extremely great cold insulation, perfect for living in cool environments. They are very cute, independent, and spirited dogs.
To many, Shiba Inus often acts like a cat clean and independent, cool and detached. However, deep within that impression is the extraordinary loyalty and protectiveness of the family. He is an outdoor lover, enjoys the cool temperatures, and has his thick coat to keep him warm.
Those seeking an extremely small, low-maintenance dog that can catch the cold will find the Shiba Inu to just be suitable. For people seeking a cold-weather dog that incorporates humorously contradictory elements of independence and loyalty, the Shiba Inu may just be the ticket.
14. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large and powerful breed, with a thick, tri-colored coat, ideally suited to cold weather. Originating in the majestic Swiss Alps, these dogs have been bred to herd cattle, pull carts, and protect property. Their thick fur provides them with sufficient warmth to thrive in cold mountainous terrain.
These big dogs are reputed to be strong, vital, and good-natured pets. Their intrinsic loyalty and protectiveness make these dogs good family dogs and watchdogs. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs love the activity and certainly enjoy cooler weather outdoor activities.
They want a lot of space and adequate exercise every day to stay happy and healthy. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are loyal, good-tempered dogs used to cold weather.
15. Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a sturdy and tenacious breed that flourishes in frigid climates. This is a breed descended from Norwegian dogs, created to pursue large game animals, for instance, elk and bear, in indifferent, icy environments. Its dense, double coat insulates itself and helps the dog to work and play around outside even when the elements are freezing.
Norwegian Elkhounds are known for their courage, loyalty, and intelligence. They are active dogs that enjoy exploring and are happiest when they have a job to do. These dogs are also great with families and form strong bonds with their owners.
They require regular exercise and enjoy outdoor activities, especially in the cold. If you’re looking for a dog that combines bravery, intelligence, and a love for winter, the Norwegian Elkhound is an excellent choice.
16. Kuvasz
Kuvasz is a large, majestic breed with long, dense, and white hair, which will ideally protect this breed in frigid temperatures. Coming from Hungary, this dog has traditionally guarded livestock in the most heartless climates.
Their dense coats provide remarkable insulation against cold, making them especially well-suited for winter conditions. They are known for their strength, independence, and protective nature and are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, making them excellent guard dogs.
Kuvasz dogs require an experienced owner who can handle their strong-willed personality as they enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in cooler weather, where their coat keeps them warm and comfortable. If you’re looking for a cold-weather dog that is both protective and independent, Kuvasz is a great option.
17. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a large and striking breed that originally came from the rugged areas of the Caucasus Mountains, where it was first developed to guard livestock from predators that were always lurking. Their dense double coat makes these canines perfectly adapted to very cold weather, well-suited for brutal winter conditions that define their homeland.
These dogs are known for their fearlessness, loyalty, and protective nature which makes them excellent guardians because of their absolute loyalty to the family member. At the same time, they demand an experienced owner due to their vitality and independence of spirit.
They feel great outside, especially in cold seasons, as their thick coat keeps them warm and comfortable. For those in search of a cold-weather companion that embodies both protectiveness and strength, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog stands out as the perfect option.
