Top 10 Dog Breeds That Can Handle the Snow
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Warm weather isn’t far away, but there’s still plenty of snow outside at the moment, making it the perfect time to find one of the best dog breeds for cold weather. In the dead of winter, only certain types of pets can tolerate a cold, snowy climate. Discover more information in the ASPCA guide. After reading this article, you’ll learn about pet breeds that like snow, so you can enjoy chilly walks around the city, or spend the day going on a beautiful hike in the mountains.
Why Certain Dogs Tolerate the Cold Well
One reason cold weather dog breeds handle colder temperatures better than others is their thick fur. On your walks, keep your dog safe with tips from our cold weather guide. It lets dogs retain body heat during the coldest time of the year. On walks, you won’t need to worry about your dogs in cold weather shaking from freezing temperatures or having trouble handling snowy weather. Once you find the right cold weather doggie, you’ll be winter ready and never look back!
Siberian Huskies
While searching to adopt puppies that thrive in cold weather, choose a Siberian Husky. Originating from Siberia, these beautiful pups have absolutely no trouble staying warm, with thick, furry paws and a tail used to cover their face for protection from frigid temperatures. Siberian Huskies, on the other hand, remain dry and warm because snow and ice don’t seep into their thick coats.
Adopting a Siberian Husky
On your walks in the coldest seasons, they’ll stroll confidently across the ice with confidence and grace. One other reason Siberian Huskies stay warm in cold climates is their high metabolism, which helps them produce body heat. Moreover, Siberian Huskies are able to pull sleds for long distances, for those of you interested in doing some winter activities with your four-legged friend. Before adopting a Siberian Husky, it’s important to know they’re one of the most active dog breeds. When it comes to exercise, Siberian Huskies cannot get enough. For more information, read this guide, where you’ll learn how to exercise your dog mentally and physically.
Alaskan Malamutes
You don’t need to go all the way to Alaska to find cold climate dog breeds - consider adopting an Alaskan Malamute. They’re one of the oldest Arctic dog breeds. Originating in Northern Alaska, these sled dogs are known for their ability to carry people and supplies for miles. With their heavy fur coats and large paws, which act like snowshoes, this breed adapts well to cold weather conditions. These dogs handle extreme cold excellently. With their powerful build, perfect for hauling heavy loads, these dogs for cold climates will have no trouble keeping up with you on a long, energetic walk in colder climates. They’re both high energy doggies, playful and hard-working.
Adopt an Alaskan Malamute
Moreover, they’re a great match for active dog owners who live for adventure and the outdoors. Just remember that strong-willed doggos need consistent training due to natural aggressiveness. For example, they tend to pull on the leash and sometimes ignore commands, but puppy behavior problems could improve after training. So, it’s important to meet pet training requirements for this Herculean breed. Use this guide to learn about the benefits of dog recall training for puppies.
Saint Bernards
Once snowfall hits, it may inspire you to find winter dog breeds to run wild with in the coldest months of the year. Does that sound like you? If so, you should consider adopting a Saint Bernard dog breed. With their massive size, these are dogs that stay warm in winter by effectively retaining body heat. Saint Bernards are dogs suited for cold weather with heavy coats, protecting them from frosty climates. Saint Bernards are working dog breeds, known for their special gift - exceptional strength for mountain work. Climb to Mount Ebert, stroll through Glacier National Park, or Mount Baker with your precious pup by your side. Surround yourself in nature on outdoor adventures with your dog. Go to the most picturesque dog-friendly parks you’ve ever dreamed of. Searching for a great park to take your furry friend to? Explore this guide to discover the best dog parks in Albany Park.
Samoyed Dog
For those of you who want to spend lots of time outdoors, but also desire to have a cuddly pet to play with, adopt a Samoyed dog. Known for their iconic fluffy white coat that reflects sunlight and insulates from the cold, this breed is extremely resilient in the face of harsh winters. When it comes to their personalities, the Samoyed temperament is charming and friendly. With their unforgettable “Samoyan smile”, this type of dog appears to always be grinning. On a rough day, when you’re feeling down, walk your pet in winter, and it’ll put a grin on your face, too.
Newfoundland Dogs
Enjoying outdoor adventures all year round is easy with adventure dog breeds by your side. Why not consider adopting a Newfoundland dog breed? Originating from Canada as a water rescue dog breed, these dogs were born to live in a climate with snow and do heavy work. In snowy weather, these dogs stay dry due to their thick, water-resistant dog coats. This large cold weather four-legged friend is known to be very large in size, which helps them retain heat. Additionally, due to their large size, you will need plenty of space for large doggos in your home. Also, these are pups that swim in cold water. With their calm and gentle personalities, they’re a good family doggie. It’s important to keep puppy grooming needs in mind. Learn how to properly groom your dog in our guide.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
Snowy weather is calling, and you want the best pets for snow by your side. It’s why you should choose a Bernese Mountain Dog. Originating from the Swiss Alps, this type of doggie has a thick coat with three colors - brown, white, and black. One interesting fact about Bernese Mountain Dog history is they were used to pull carts of milk, cheese, and farm goods, which was especially important during the winters, when people relied on them for sustenance. In addition, this mountain dog breed is naturally more comfortable in an alpine environment. So, if you’re in the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada & Cascade Ranges, Alaska, or the Northeastern region of the United States, these are the best puppies for cold climates.
Tibetan Mastiffs
When it comes to finding the right snow dog, getting a Tibetan Mastiff can also be a good choice. Here’s a fun fact about this Himalayan dog breed. Originally found in the Himalayas, these dogs were bred to protect farm animals. Bred to survive harsh mountain winters, their massive insulating coats keep them warm. With this particular kind of dog, they’re quite resilient and they’re also an extremely protective dog breed. With their loyal and independent personalities, they make a good family guard dog, and not to mention, a great addition to your home. Tibetan Mastiffs are perfect dogs for experienced owners. Another detail to be mindful of is they need lots of early dog socialization.
Norwegian Elkhounds
Now that you’re familiar with Tibetan Mastiffs, let’s move onto Norweigan Elkhound breeds. This is a Scandanavian dog breed. Norwegian Elkhounds have a dense, waterproof dog coat and a compact body built for endurance. Known for their exceptional stamina in cold climates, these dogs make amazing winter adventure companions and will have no trouble keeping up. Confident and bold, they’re also a friendly, but independent dog breed. Be mindful that they need plenty of exercise and they enjoy outdoor activity since they’re a high energy dog breed. Use this guide to discover indoor exercise techniques to do with your pup as well.
Great Pyrenees
Ready to learn about more dog breeds? Next up is the Great Pyrenees breed. They’re well-known for being a livestock guardian pet from the Pyrenees Mountains. These breeds can be recognized for their thick, weather-resistant dog coat and their large body retains warmth. One of their most prominent traits is their strong endurance in mountainous terrains. Calm and patient, they’re a protective family puppy. They’re dogs that need exercise and regular brushing.
Akitas
Last but not least, let’s learn about the Akita dog breed. Originating in Northern Japan, they have a thick double dog coat for insulation and a strong, sturdy build. With their natural tolerance for freezing climates along with their loyal and courageous personalities, they’ll be your cold weather four-legged friend for life. They’re very loving to their families and they require firm training as well as early socialization.
Adopt a Winter Dog
While you’re searching for your snow-loving companion, it’s important to choose the best cold weather pets. Dashing through the snow, sledding in the winter tundra, and exploring a snowy trail is the perfect snow adventure with four-legged friends. Before becoming a pet owner, use this guide to discover the best puppies for your family. Adopting a snow-loving companion will be the greatest decision you’ve ever made.
