Key Points:
- From the Siberian Husky to the American Eskimo Dog, some dog breeds just look like they’re made for the winter.
- Dogs with double coats stay warmer in cold temperatures, and their thick ears are less likely to get frostbitten.
- Many of the larger dog breeds on this list, like the Saint Bernard and the Newfoundland, use their giant paws like snowshoes to navigate snowy terrain.
Humans aren’t the only ones who get excited for the first snow of the season. Your dog might enjoy romping around a winter wonderland even more than you do — especially if they come from a long line of snow-loving pups.
Winter-friendly breeds have double coats that help them stay warm in frigid temperatures, along with thick ears and large paws that are perfect for bounding through the snow. This also means that they’re not suited for warm climates, so you probably shouldn’t get a Tibetan Mastiff if you live in Los Angeles.
If you’re looking for a dog who loves the winter, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want a fluffy companion to cuddle with on cold nights or a gentle giant who will hike through a blizzard with you, there’s a special breed that’ll fit right into your chilliest adventures.
Lace up your snow boots and get ready for a journey to the coldest corners of the world. Here are 14 cold-weather dog breeds that were built for the winter.
Arctic sled dog breeds
When you think of dogs that thrive in cold weather, a boisterous pack of sled dogs might come to mind. These winter-loving breeds have evolved to handle the extreme cold through generations of breeding by indigenous tribes that relied on dogs to pull sleds.
Alaskan Malamute
Size: Large
Alaskan Malamutes are descendants of the original Arctic sled dogs. Bred by the ancient Mahlemut tribe of Alaska, these dogs were used for hauling heavy loads over long distances in freezing conditions. They are larger and stronger than other sled dog breeds and better suited for endurance over speed. Despite their strength, they are also friendly, gentle, and great with families, though they do require regular exercise and space to roam.
Siberian Husky
Size: Medium to Large
Known for their striking blue eyes and independent personalities, Siberian Huskies were originally bred for sled racing. This explains their boundless energy and uncanny ability to find the fastest possible escape route. Huskies are also popular for their unique vocalizations and wolfish good looks. They are excellent companions for active families, especially those who live in cold climates, but they can be stubborn and require lots of exercise.
Samoyed
Size: Medium to Large
Known for their “Sammy smiles” and fluffy white coats, Samoyeds are incredibly friendly and versatile dogs. Originally bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds in Siberia, these dogs can handle subzero temperatures and still look like they’re having the time of their lives. Samoyeds were even a part of some early expeditions to the South Pole. Today, this breed simply loves playing in the snow, making Sammies the perfect winter companions.
Swiss cold-weather working dog breeds
Switzerland is home to some remarkable cold-climate dogs that were bred for working in the snow and ice.
Saint Bernard
Size: Very Large
Saint Bernards are famous for their role in mountain rescue. These dogs have historically braved harsh snowstorms to save people stranded in the Swiss Alps. With their massive size and thick fur, these gentle giants are made for cold weather. They’re also great family dogs, known for their calm and friendly demeanor.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Size: Large
The Bernese Mountain Dog is another (slightly smaller) Swiss breed that thrives in cold climates. They were originally bred to work on farms in the snowy mountains, herding cattle and pulling carts. Nowadays, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their energetic and friendly nature, making them a good choice for active families.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Size: Large
Similar to the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a strong, hardworking breed with a thick, weather-resistant coat. These dogs were bred for farm work in the Swiss Alps, making them highly adaptable to cold climates. They are loyal, protective, and make great pets for active families.
Other cold-climate working dog breeds
There are many more breeds from cold regions around the world that are perfect for winter conditions.
Finnish Lapphund
Size: Medium
Bred to herd reindeer in Finland, the Finnish Lapphund has a thick, double coat that protects it from freezing temperatures. These dogs are known for their friendly and playful personalities, making them great companions for active families who love spending time outdoors.
Great Pyrenees
Size: Large
This working dog breed hails from the Pyrenees mountains in France, where it once guarded livestock from wolves and other predators. While the Great Pyrenees may have served as guardians of the flock years ago, it’s known as a pretty calm breed today. If you’re looking for a loyal and low-key winter buddy with some seriously fluffy fur, this breed could be for you.
Akita
Size: Large
The Akita is another strong and resilient breed, originally bred for hunting in cold, mountainous regions of northern Japan. Their thick, double coat makes them well-suited for winter conditions, and they are loyal, intelligent, and protective.
Tibetan Mastiff
Size: Large to Very Large
The Tibetan Mastiff’s thick, coarse outer coat and soft undercoat make it one of the best dogs for cold weather. Originally used as guard dogs in the Himalayan Mountains, this breed is known for its strength, independence, and protective nature. Though large and imposing, Tibetan Mastiffs are gentle giants when raised in a loving environment.
Newfoundland
Size: Very large
These giant, bear-like dogs hail from the Canadian island of Newfoundland, where they made a name for themselves as strong swimmers. Newfoundlands or “Newfies” used to work alongside fishermen, and they still help humans with water rescues today. Despite their imposing size, Newfies are just oversized teddy bears — they’re even called “the nanny dog” because they’re so great with kids.
Small & fluffy cold-weather dog breeds
Not all cold-weather dogs are large. Some small breeds are also well-equipped for the winter with fluffy double coats, although they might need booties to protect their little paws on winter walks.
American Eskimo Dog
Size: Small, Toy, Miniature
Despite the name, the American Eskimo Dog is not from the Arctic. (The breed is closely related to the German Spitz.) However, their thick, fluffy coat makes them well-suited for colder climates. Originally bred for circus performances, Eskies are energetic, intelligent, and perfect for active families looking for a smaller cold-weather dog.
Keeshond
Size: Medium
With its thick, luxurious double coat, the Keeshond is a breed that thrives in the cold. Known for their fox-like appearance and friendly demeanor, Keeshonds are great family dogs that enjoy outdoor activities in chilly weather.
Shiba Inu
Size: Small to Medium
This small to medium-sized breed from Japan has a thick double coat that helps keep it warm in cold weather. The Shiba Inu’s independent and alert nature makes it an excellent companion for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering what dog breeds are prepared for the winter, look no further than these amazing cold-weather breeds. From the legendary Alaskan Malamute to the friendly Samoyed, these dogs are built for snowy days and cold nights.
Whether you’re looking for a big, fluffy companion or a smaller, energetic dog that loves the cold, there’s a winter-loving breed out there for you. So bundle up, and get ready to make some snow day memories with your new best friend!
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