Just like humans, all dogs have different weather preferences. While some pups prefer to stay inside on winter days, others look forward to cold weather all year long. If you’re looking for a canine companion who thrives in cold winters, look no further than these breeds!
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are the ultimate winter dogs! This breed was originally bred to be search and rescue dogs that located people buried in snow. These pups are notably strong and hardworking, which enables them to walk through miles of snow searching for missing people. Although this breed is now a well-loved family pet, some Saint Bernards are still used as avalanche rescue dogs to this day.
Saint Bernards are calm and affectionate, making them a perfect breed for families with kids. They are fairly low-energy dogs, so moderate walks and play sessions are usually enough to keep them happy. Since Saint Bernards thrive in colder climates, these pups may not be as comfortable in hot, humid weather.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a majestic breed with a thick, tri-colored coat that protects them against the cold. These dogs are native to Switzerland, where they were originally used as farm dogs and cart drivers. This meant they were exposed to all kinds of weather, including heavy snow and icy temperatures. Their large, sturdy build and long fur make them well-suited for cold environments. In addition to being strong and hardworking, Bernese Mountain Dogs also have a gentle temperament and loyal nature that makes them well-loved by many.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are well-known for being cold-weather dogs, and for good reason! This breed was originally bred to pull sleds over long distances in freezing temperatures. They are built for endurance and can thrive in extremely cold environments, making them ideal companions for cold-weather adventures. However, these energetic pups require plenty of exercise to stay content.
Siberian Huskies have a thick double coat of fur that keeps them insulated and warm all winter long. These pups have a lot of shedding fur—so much that many Husky owners complain about the amount of fur on their floors and furniture. Be prepared for these pups to shed quite a bit, especially during the spring and fall.
American Eskimo Dog
These fluffy, compact dogs were originally bred for herding and farm work in cold conditions. Despite their name, American Eskimo Dogs are actually descendants of the German Spitz. However, their thick white coat and resemblance to an Arctic fox make them look like they belong in snowy landscapes. American Eskimo Dogs’ thick double coats and thick, tiny ears protect them from cold and snowy conditions. These tiny pups are able to retain plenty of heat, even in freezing temperatures.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees breed was originally used to guard livestock in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain. Since this breed has a history of herding livestock and warding off predators in cold and snowy terrain, these pups do great in cold weather. These dogs have a thick, double coat that allows them to handle freezing temperatures with ease.
These working dogs are gentle and good-natured, which sets them apart from several other guard dog breeds. Their large size and calm, protective nature make them great guardians for families with kids. Great Pyrenees are also notably low maintenance and easy to care for. They have a longer lifespan than most dogs of their size, which means you’ll get to enjoy their company for many years!
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are giant dogs from Newfoundland, Canada. This breed was originally bred to work in icy waters alongside sailors. Their thick coat keeps them warm in freezing temperatures, making these dogs excellent swimmers even in cold conditions. Newfoundlands are equally useful on land as well, thanks to their incredible strength—they can weigh up to 150 pounds!
Beyond their impressive swimming abilities, Newfoundlands are known for their calm and patient nature. They’re excellent family dogs and get along well with children and other pets. However, their thick, shedding coat requires regular grooming to keep their coats in top condition. Owners of this breed should be prepared for heavy shedding during the spring and fall.
When it comes to enduring cold temperatures, these breeds are the experts! Whether you’re looking for a playful Husky to run in the snow or a gentle giant like a Saint Bernard to keep you company, these breeds will stick by your side all winter long—after all, they were built for it!
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