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Living in colder parts of the world can prove to be a challenge for people who love dogs. Many dog breeds don’t do well in cold weather. This means your options may be a bit more limited than those in more temperate areas. This can definitely be discouraging, especially if you’ve had your heart set on a particular breed of dog. However, there are still plenty of breeds that make wonderful canine companions, even in places that see a lot of snow.
There are several dog breeds that have been bred for harsh winter temperatures. They come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors. Their personalities are also different and can vary dramatically from one another. Each breed has one thing in common: they all have thick fluffy coats that help them preserve their heat when things get chilly. This often serves them well in temperatures that hit below zero, too!
In the article below, you’ll find 26 of the most popular cold-tolerant dog breeds to help you determine which would suit your lifestyle. I also explore cold weather safety tips for dogs, answer frequently asked questions, and recommend our favorite cold weather equipment along the way. So, let’s jump in!
Cold-Weather Dog Safety
Many dog breeds are more acclimated to living in cold weather due to their thicker coats. However, this does not mean they are invincible to cold weather. Any dog left outside for long periods of time can have several health risks, especially with exposure to their paw pads and other sensitive areas of their skin. You need to understand your dog’s cold-weather limits. You don’t want to risk exposure to potentially life-threatening health issues, like frostbite or hypothermia.
If you plan to stay outside with your dog for longer periods of time, make sure they are well equipped to deal with it. You can dress them in outerwear or equip them with snow boots to protect their paw pads. Even if your dog is headed outside for short bursts of cold weather activity, these items can help keep them warm. When it comes to the health and safety of your pup, you can never be too cautious.
Why Snow Dog Breeds Handle The Cold So Well
Some dog breeds seem built for the snow, happily bounding through icy landscapes, while others shiver at the first winter breeze. But what makes cold-weather breeds so well-suited for chilly conditions? Their ability to handle the cold comes down to a mix of physical adaptations, coat types, and even behavioral instincts.
1. Thick Double Coats: Nature’s Insulation
One of the most important traits of cold-weather breeds is their thick double coat, which acts as a built-in winter jacket. This coat consists of:
- A dense undercoat that traps body heat and repels moisture.
- A protective outer coat that shields against wind, snow, and ice.
Breeds like Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Newfoundlands have especially thick fur that helps them stay warm even in sub-zero temperatures.
2. Large, Well-Padded Paws For Snowy Terrain
Walking on icy ground can be painful and dangerous, but cold-weather breeds have fur-covered, well-padded paws that act like built-in snowshoes. These pads help them maintain grip on slippery surfaces while providing insulation from the cold ground. Breeds such as the Samoyed and Saint Bernard have large, sturdy paws that allow them to trek through deep snow with ease.
3. Body Fat & Muscle Mass: Built For Warmth
Larger breeds, especially those originally bred for working in cold climates, tend to have higher body fat percentages and strong muscle mass to help retain heat. For example, the Newfoundland and Bernese Mountain Dog have stockier builds and thick coats, which keep them well-insulated even in freezing conditions.
4. Small Or Covered Ears & Tails: Reducing Heat Loss
Dogs lose heat through their ears, paws, and tails. Many cold-weather breeds have small, rounded ears to minimize heat loss and thickly furred tails that they use for extra warmth. Some even curl their tails over their noses when they sleep to conserve body heat. The Akita and Alaskan Malamute are perfect examples of breeds that use their fluffy tails as built-in face warmers.
5. High Energy Levels: Keeping Warm Through Movement
Many cold-weather dogs were bred for hard work in freezing temperatures, such as pulling sleds, herding livestock, or mountain rescues. Their high energy levels and endurance help generate body heat, keeping them warm even in harsh conditions. For instance, Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are famous for their sled-pulling stamina. While Saint Bernards were bred to rescue travellers in the snowy Alps.
6. Waterproof Or Snow-Repellent Fur
Certain breeds have coats that not only keep them warm but also repel snow and water. Some, like the Newfoundland, even have an oily, water-resistant coat that allows them to swim in icy waters without getting hypothermia.
7. Adapted Metabolism: Fueling The Cold
Cold-weather breeds tend to have an efficient metabolism that helps them burn calories to generate body heat. They may require a higher-calorie diet during the winter months to maintain their energy levels.
Watch This Cute Snow Dog Moment Caught On Camera
26 Cold Weather Dog Breeds
Now that we’ve gotten that part out of the way, let’s take a look at the top dog breeds that are well-suited for cold-weather living. Many of the dogs below are working breeds, so you’ll need to be prepared to handle the activity levels associated with owning a working dog breed.
Siberian Husky
Perhaps the most popular cold-tolerant dog breed in the world is the Siberian Husky. They’re the classic image of a snow dog, with their dense double coats, lithe figure, and striking blue eyes. These dogs were originally bred to help pull sleds and transport property across the frozen Russian tundra. This job required them to be around humans most of the time, meaning they carry their fondness for people with them to this day.
They are fantastic family dogs who enjoy spending time with the members of their pack. This also includes small animals and even children, though it’s always a good idea to socialize them from an early age. Huskies have thick double coats and are notorious shedders who will need their fur managed regularly to ensure it doesn’t end up on your couch, clothing, or in your home.
Alaskan Malamute
The largest Arctic sled dog gets their name from the place they originated from, as well as the tribe who developed them – the Mahlemuts. These dogs are an ancient breed with a history that goes back around 4,000 years. They were originally bred to help hunters with taking down large game, though these days they’re seen pulling sleds or simply making their owners happy.
Their thick, double coats help them to thrive in wet and cold weather. They have a tremendous affection for their family, including other pets and children. This makes socializing easy, but training them might be a bit harder. Malamutes are highly intelligent, with a stubborn streak that can make teaching them obedience more difficult than it needs to be. Still, they are wonderfully loyal pets who are capable of giving much love to their owners, provided they get their own way when they can!
Samoyed
The Samoyed is known for their thick and beautiful white coat. They are also incredibly affectionate towards their family. You must be able to care for their coat, as it is incredibly dense and can shed a lot! The fact that it’s also white means it will show up everywhere if you don’t keep shedding under control. Maintenance is essential to this breed’s appearance, but they make up for it by being adorable and charming.
This dog is another ancient breed originating from frigid Russia. Originally intended for helping hunters and fishermen, they ended up being great at sledding and herding reindeer. While many of these dogs still keep these jobs, you’ll most often see the friendly Samoyed as a family dog. These dogs are naturally athletic and will need a lot of exercise. They are happy with daily walks of around 45 minutes plus 15 or more minutes of games. They enjoy completing activities that get the cogs in their heads turning. Samoyeds are prone to boredom, so you should keep them entertained however you can.
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is known for their beautiful white coat and incredible affection for their family. They are also similar to Samoyeds in that they look like smaller versions of those big, white dogs with no shortage of personality and love. This breed descends from an ancient line of dogs going back roughly 6,000 years, though they’re also closely related to the more modern German Spitz. Their dense, fluffy, gorgeous coats make them a perfect choice for families who live in colder places.
You will find that your American Eskimo is very smart and gets along with humans and other animals on a level of mutual understanding, especially if they are trained early on. They were bred to be docile and friendly and, as such, make poor guard dogs. American Eskimo Dogs are very clingy and get very sad when not given affection and praise. Their tendency to develop separation anxiety, plus their inherent intelligence, can make them prone to displaying destructive behavior.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a huge, iconic dog that doesn’t do very well in warmer weather. They were bred for the freezing climate of the Alps, and as such will be very happy in cold places where they can use their thick coats efficiently. These dogs are among some of the best family dogs on the planet. They carry an almost unlimited amount of patience and adoration for their humans. Saint Bernards are nurturing, loving dogs who get along exceptionally well with children as well as other animals.
Saint Bernards aren’t quite as intelligent as other dog breeds and can be stubborn. They do, however, respond amazingly well to positive reinforcement. Remember that you need to teach your Saint Bernard not to be too excited around those they love while they are still at a manageable size. Their huge adult bodies can easily topple over even the sturdiest humans. Beyond this, they are relatively easy to care for. They aren’t particularly excited about exercise and, as such, will not need a lot of it. Around 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise is enough to keep them happy.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is an ancient Swiss Sennenhund breed. They have long, soft fur that makes them able to withstand cold temperatures in the Alps. Berners were originally bred to be all-around working dogs, helping to pull carts, as well as herd sheep, and keep the property safe from intruders. Their incredible work ethic makes them great at those jobs even today, though they have found a place in modern society as fabulously affectionate family pets.
They are very gentle and get along well with children and pets. Berners extend this kindness to people they trust outside their families. They are protective of their homes but hardly ever aggressive. Still, they tend to be more reserved around those they’re not familiar with.
Berners are very playful dogs who need a lot of interaction every day. They’re known to be lower-energy but need playtime in more intense spurts. They need about 45 to 60 minutes of total activity each day. You can divide this time into daily walks plus other activities like agility courses and training sessions. Berners are generally well-behaved, especially when appropriately trained, but can still be destructive if they get too bored.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is one of the most loyal dogs on this list. They may look like the Berner but they have shorter and denser coats. These large dogs were thought to have descended from dogs similar to the modern Mastiffs brought by Roman legions to the Swiss Alps. This is another great, versatile dog meant for everything from herding and guarding to assisting soldiers during wartime.
These dogs are relatively easy to train but need to be the Alpha. As such, they can be quite stubborn when not reined in early enough in their lives. They need firm leadership and consistent training to be effective at their jobs and to display the best obedience. They are loving dogs, though they’re not as patient as Berners.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are good at lots of different jobs and, as such, have a relatively high need for activity. They enjoy being on task and always want something they can keep themselves busy with. As such, ensure that you bring them out for walks of around 45 minutes daily. You’ll also want to plan on giving them an ample 30 minutes or so of playtime.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are smaller than the other dogs I have mentioned on this list. However, their courageous personalities rival those of the biggest dogs! Bred in Japan for helping with the hunt in rough, cold, mountainous areas, these dogs are excellent hikers in many different weather conditions. They have bright, bold, and alert personalities, making them a suitable watchdog for the home. They are also highly trainable, given their eager-to-please personalities and high intelligence.
While they are reserved around strangers, the Shiba Inu loves their family and enjoys playing with children. These dogs have moderate-high energy needs. They will need around 50 minutes of exercise each day. You can give them the workout they need by taking them on hikes if you live in a place with more rugged terrain. Beyond this, they also enjoy agility trials. They also don’t bark much, making them great in densely populated housing areas.
Akita
Another cold-weather dog breed in Japan is the fluffy and courageous Akita. These dogs have very dense double-layered coats that help them stay safe and warm even in harsh weather conditions. These dogs have a lot of energy as it is, but you’ll find they are even more energetic in the winters when they can roll around in the snow!
Akitas were originally bred to be hunting companions. They have retained the prey drive from their hunting days, even if they weren’t taught to hunt. As such, it can be difficult to keep them in homes with other animals. However, they are immensely affectionate and loyal to their pet parents and other human members of their family. They still require socialization from an early age, as they can be wary of strangers.
Akitas are highly active dogs and will be happiest when they are outside playing. You should make it a habit to take them out on walks where they can stretch their legs, though be sure they are properly trained to be on a leash lest they get distracted and chase small animals. Did you know there are two Akita types? We have a guide exploring the similarities and surprising differences between the American and Japanese Akita.
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is known to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They are depicted with Himalayan cave drawings dated back thousands of years, showing large dogs that may have been their ancestors. These dogs were originally bred to be guardians of the home in those snowy mountains, so you can expect that they have that same watchful eye today. Their coats are extremely dense and thick, so expect to spend plenty of time grooming this breed should you welcome them into your home.
This capacity for guarding makes them more reserved and often wary of strangers, though their loyalty to their family is unmatched. This devotion makes them a great choice for a companion dog. They are quite in tune with their own emotions and those of their family. Their strong-willed nature means you will need to show leadership in your training with them as early as possible.
These giant dogs need a big living space, with a nice, fenced-in yard to help them walk off energy in the afternoons. They’re not particularly high-energy dogs but need exercise like any other breed. Daily walks are a great way to help keep them satisfied. But you leash must train them well early in their life if you don’t want to end up the one being walked!
Tibetan Terrier
Another dog hailing from Tibet is the Tibetan Terrier, bred to be companions for monks in the snowy mountains. These medium-sized dogs possess long, soft, double coats that keep them toasty even in cold weather. Because of their thick fur, they require quite a bit of grooming and fur management in your home. You should socialize them early on to bring out their bright personalities. Tibetan Terriers can be shy around new people but grow to love those they are familiar with. Once they’ve warmed up to you, they are very fun-loving dogs with a gentle disposition that lends well to therapy dog work.
Tibetan Terriers are happy living in smaller dwellings, given their size. You’ll find they’re not heavy on the barking, too. However, they still need to be taken outside for playtime and walks as often as possible. They aren’t very active dogs but still have a moderate amount of energy. You should, as such, give them 45 minutes of playtime and exercise every day. Try to add some variety into their routine, as this can help keep them entertained.
Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog is certainly a unique dog. It is the only breed known to have originated in Iceland. They were originally bred for protecting and herding flocks of sheep, though nowadays, their company is mostly enjoyed in the home.
They may bark when they see someone unfamiliar approaching their home, but Icelandic Sheepdogs are usually not wary of strangers. Instead, these dogs see every person that passes as a potential new friend. While this makes them a good fit for families even with young children, you should not have any birds in your home. This dog was bred to protect sheep from birds of prey, and as such will chase any feathered friend that shares their home.
They have a waterproof double coat that keeps them warm in the winter, making them an excellent choice for families who live in colder areas. While they’re not the most popular breed, this dog is a loyal and friendly companion. Again, due to their coats, expect to spend plenty of time grooming your pup to keep fur off your furniture and clothing.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are highly recognizable, with their regal lion-like appearance and blue-black tongues. They were originally bred to be companions in the cold, helping their humans in many different areas of life. These include herding, hunting, as well as pulling carts and other vehicles. Their protective nature makes them an excellent guardian of the home. They’re not exactly the friendliest dog, as they’re known to be very aloof. However, Chow Chows are happy in family homes, even with children and other pets, as long as they are socialized from puppyhood.
Chow Chows enjoy being the leader, which can make them pushy dogs. When training a Chow Chow, you should show enough authority to help them understand their place. Their stubborn nature can make training difficult, but you should press on with patience, firm guidance, and positive reinforcement. Chow Chows are not very energetic, so you don’t need to give them a lot of exercise for their satisfaction. Around 30 minutes a day should suffice, though you can take them out for more to prevent weight gain.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland comes from the Canadian island of the same name, though their specific history is a bit unclear. They have dense coats that serve them well in the winters. Their coats are also waterproof, making the Newfoundland adept at working near or in the water. They have long since been companions for fishermen and hunters; these days, they are also very good at water rescue.
They make splendid family pets outside of work with their gentle and loving temperament. Their patience makes them a good choice for families with children. They have a deep loyalty to their humans, making them great watchdogs. You may have heard of Nana, the Newfoundland nurse dog in J.M. Barrie’s early 1900s classic, Peter Pan. She was said to have been based on the Barries’ Newfoundland, Luath.
These dogs are fairly active and need a lot of daily exercise. It’s a great idea to bring them swimming whenever possible, especially in the summer when it won’t be too hard to keep up with them at the lake! These dogs enjoy cold weather, so expect that they will always want to play even when it’s snowing.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the more popular breeds in the world. They handle the cold very well, thanks to their thick double coat. German Shepherds are also notorious shedders due to their thick and dense coats. Expect to spend plenty of time grooming this pup during shedding seasons.
These dogs are diligent working dogs that take on many different jobs in the modern day, from being guides and sniffers to helping with search and rescue. Despite their work ethic, these dogs are also all about having a good time with their loved ones. They should be socialized early on to help them keep their calm in most situations; their confident demeanor may make them a bit intimidating.
German Shepherds are wonderfully smart dogs who love to be busy. It’s a good idea to give them entertainment whenever possible; toys, games, and activities all help keep their minds active and away from any destructive tendencies! This dog is also quite high-energy. They require a lot of exercise each day. You can split a 60-minute daily walk into 30 minutes in the morning and the rest in the early evening.
Leonberger
Known as the Gentle Lion, the Leonberger is a giant dog with a heart of gold. They were originally bred in Germany around the mid-19th century. During breeding, the goal was to create a massive dog with long fur and a dense undercoat while keeping a very gentle temperament. Their covering helps keep them happy and healthy in colder weather.
They are often loving and caring towards their family, though their large stature may pose a threat to the safety of your toddlers. Always supervise interactions with your children and larger dogs to keep everyone safe. Leonbergers are known to be a bit stubborn when they aren’t trained properly. It’s a good idea to start teaching young when they are more receptive.
The Leonberger is an active dog who needs a good amount of daily exercise. Daily walks are always a good idea, but they enjoy other activities such as agility trials, carting, and even herding. These dogs are also excellent at swimming and water rescue, so you should try to bring them out to any body of water when you can.
Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound has worn many hats over the centuries they’ve been around. They have been guardians of their owner’s territory, the keepers of their flock, as well as companions in the hunt. Their thick double coats certainly help them with their work ethic. Their coats are water and dirt-resistant, keeping them exceptionally warm even in the coldest Scandinavian winters.
These dogs tend to be wary of strangers. They will bark when someone unfamiliar is in their presence. Norwegian Elkhounds are brave and always willing to protect their family. This loyalty is a wonderful trait that offsets their natural independent nature. They like to establish dominance and, as such, will need a leader who can teach them what they need to do with firm but patient guidance.
Norwegian Elkhounds enjoy strenuous exercise and will require a lot daily. Try to give them 60 minutes of intense exercise, whether it’s running alongside you as you bike or sprinting after a ball in the park. This helps calm them down for a nice leisurely walk that can end your session for that day. Also, try to give this dog a large yard they can run around in to help burn off anxiety and stress.
Finnish Lapphund
Another dog from Scandinavia is the Finnish Lapphund. They’re not well-known in other parts of the world but have achieved renown in places like Norway, Sweden, and their native Finland. These dogs were bred to herd reindeer, which often entailed working in freezing temperatures. Finnish Lapphunds have thick, long double coats that keep them toasty even in harsh conditions.
Beyond their work, they make for loving family companions. They are submissive dogs who are always eager to please their owners. However, this devotion to their family can make it difficult to leave a Finnish Lapphund alone. They easily develop separation anxiety and may display destructive behaviors when they get too lonely.
Since the Finnish Lapphund is happiest when they can herd, you can expect that they need a wide, open space where they can get a lot of exercise. It’s important that they’re not kept indoors too long, especially in smaller dwellings like apartments. These dogs require a lot of time for walks and other fun activities. Playing fetch, training sessions and agility trials are all good choices to help satisfy your Finnish Lapphund’s need for playtime.
Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd has a name that may be confusing. They weren’t bred to herd but instead to serve as a protector of their flocks. They have a double coat that sheds in the spring and summer but stays thick in the winter to keep them warm even in freezing conditions. While they make excellent protectors, they’re not really suited for family life.
They’re better off with families without children, as they don’t regard children as able to lead them. These dogs are both highly independent and loyal. They do better with an owner who is firm in their leadership. They need proper socialization from early on to help keep them better adjusted in their adulthood. Without this socialization, they are prone to aggression towards strangers.
Anatolian Shepherds need ample exercise, as they are a fairly energetic breed. Since they are so used to patrolling around their flock or herd, they won’t be happy staying indoors for too long. They need a large, fenced-in yard to play in so they can burn off any excess energy and frustration. Taking them out for long, regular walks on top of their yard time will help keep them happy and healthy.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees was bred on and around the Pyrenees Mountains. They are a very ancient breed, with some of their ancestors thought to have been around some 11,000 years ago! These dogs have very thick double coats that work wonders in harsh winters, though they will need a good bit of maintenance. These pups shed a lot!
The Great Pyrenees is thought to have their origins as a shepherd’s dog. While many of them still have this role today, in the modern era, you’re more likely to see them hanging out with their family. They are fantastic companion animals with sweet dispositions that allow them to get along well with children. However, owners should train them well at a consistent rate. Great Pyres are intelligent but are often more inclined to do their own thing.
Keeping a Great Pyre can be challenging. You need to provide them with a lot of space they can roam around in, ensuring your fences are high. Great Pyrenees have no trouble leaping over fences that are short enough to accommodate their impressive jump height. Beyond this, they will love navigating rough terrain with you on hikes, especially in winter. Try to give them daily walks of around 40 minutes each day. They aren’t particularly active but enjoy playtime a lot. Toys and games work well to keep them happy.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Another dog from the Pyrenees Mountains is the Pyrenean Mastiff. These dogs are absolutely huge, standing around 30 inches at the withers and often weighing up to 180 lbs! Their dense and fluffy double coats keep them safe in the winter. However, they also shed excessively, so as with other breeds on this list, be prepared to groom them regularly.
They were bred around 800 years ago to answer the need for a good livestock guardian, as well as to be the shepherd’s companion. Pyrenean Mastiffs are a good choice for a family dog. They aren’t as affectionate as many other dogs on this list, so keep that in mind. They get along well with children, though you should ensure your kids respect their personal space. Given their more independent nature and gargantuan size, obedience training must be done as early as possible.
Leash training is particularly important given the size of this dog, so be sure to stay on top of it from puppyhood. Your Pyrenean Mastiff will enjoy taking long walks with you. But it will be hard to control them if they aren’t well-behaved! Aside from the need to stretch their legs, Pyrenean Mastiffs aren’t particularly interested in strenuous activity. More consistent but slower-paced exercise is good for them.
Karakachan
The Karakachan, also known as the Bulgarian Shepherd, is a large dog with a heart to match. They were bred by nomadic shepherds who settled in Bulgaria and Greece, needing a dog to help protect their flocks. Their dense undercoats are essential to keeping them warm in cold temperatures – especially on nights when they are guarding sheep. Their sense of duty can make them excellent home guardians, as they are wary of strangers.
However, they have a deep loyalty to their families and are often very sweet and patient to the members of their pack. You can lessen aggressive tendencies by socializing them from puppyhood. Try not to keep your Karakachan in smaller areas like apartment complexes. They need large, open spaces where they can roam. Beyond this, they can also be quite noisy, given how alert they are.
You must give them at least 60 minutes of more strenuous activity each day. This can be in the form of a brisk walk, hiking, as well as playing fetch. If you’re lucky enough to have a farm with a flock of sheep, they will take to guarding and herding them perfectly well.
Keeshond
The Keeshond has a silhouette similar to their ancestor, the Samoyed. Thanks to their bushy outer coats and dense undercoats, they are another dog who does fantastically in the snow. You’ll find that keeping a Keeshond in your family will change it for the better.
These dogs love to be at the center of attention and always do their best to return that attention with love for their humans. They are intensely loyal to their family and make good watchdogs when trained properly. They are easy enough to train, given that they are quite smart, but be warned that they have a talent for mischief! The earlier you train them, the easier it is to keep them well-behaved.
Keeshonds were bred to be companions on boats and, as such, are fine living life in smaller places. This makes them an excellent fit for apartments. However, bringing your Keeshond out whenever you can for their exercise is always a good idea. They are pretty active and will require a lot of daily activity to tire them out – 60 minutes of walking and playtime. Otherwise, their mischief can spiral and turn into more destructive behaviors. On the flip side, they may just become a little crazier and start spinning in circles to burn off that extra energy!
Komondor
Another flock protector is the Komondor, originating in Hungary. These dogs may look like nothing more than big mops, but they have a strong temperament that makes them capable guardians of the farm and the home. Their thick, shaggy coats help keep them warm even in the harshest of winters, though it needs a good deal of maintenance.
It may be hard to rein this dog in if it’s not done early enough, but the benefits are incredible. They are strongly loyal to their human family and do whatever is necessary to keep them safe. Socialization from early on is important if you want them to trust new people and animals more. A properly trained Komondor is very happy to relax with their family as they are showered with affection.
Komondors are happiest when they live in rural areas with a lot of land to explore. The more to guard, the better! However, owners should take care not to give them too much leeway, as well as to secure the perimeter fence. Komondors can easily jump fences in an attempt to widen their patrol area. Because of their stubborn demeanor, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
Kuvasz
The Kuvasz hails from Hungary. This dog was bred to be the steadfast protector of all the animals on the farm, from sheep to cattle and horses. They are covered in dense, white fur that helps to differentiate them from wolves that may harm their flock. Their fur is also double-coated, protecting them from bitter winter temperatures.
These dogs are good at their jobs, being fearless in the face of danger. This makes them suitable as guard dogs for the home, as well. Taking a Kuvasz in only when you’ve previously owned a dog is a good idea. They have strong instincts and tend to be independent; they need a competent leader to help them behave.
Take special care to leash train them when they are young. These big dogs grow up to 30 inches in height and around 120 pounds, making walking difficult if they aren’t well-behaved. Exercise is essential to their happiness, as they are an active breed built for working. Give them around 60 minutes of exercise each day, taking care to give them variety in their activities. This helps to keep destructive tendencies at bay.
Caucasian Shepherd
Also known as the Russian Bear Dog, the Caucasian Shepherd goes by several different dog names. These massive dogs originated in the Caucasus Mountain range. It’s not uncommon to find a Caucasian Shepherd over 150 pounds, and some dogs grow to north of 200 pounds. Their dense, fluffy coats make them look even bigger than they are. As with all thicker-coated dog breeds, these pups need regular grooming.
They have a more laid-back temperament than other working breeds but still have more energy than a Mastiff or Great Dane. These pups need a larger home and yard due to their size and to accommodate their roaming guardian instincts. This breed requires a very dedicated family. They are extremely headstrong and very independent. Caucasian Shepherds need a firm owner who’s experienced in managing hard-headed dogs. They are best in a single-dog household and don’t always mesh well with other dogs.
How Do I Take Care Of A Cold-Weather Dog?
It’s important that you know how best to approach their care so they can make many happy memories with you throughout their long and healthy lives. To care for a cold-weather dog, ensure they get plenty of exercise to stay warm and healthy, but avoid prolonged exposure in extreme conditions. Even though they have thick coats, they can still suffer from hypothermia or frostbite if left outside for too long. Provide a warm, dry shelter with insulated bedding, and keep their paws protected from ice, salt, and frostbite by using pet-safe balms or booties.
Regular brushing helps maintain their double coat by preventing matting and ensuring proper insulation. In colder months, they may require a higher-calorie diet to maintain energy levels. Always provide fresh, unfrozen water, and after snowy walks, check for ice buildup between their toes. Even winter-loving breeds need warmth, comfort, and protection! While caring for your snow dog may be difficult work, their fuzzy hugs will always be enough to melt the ice of a dreary day.
Can These Breeds Live In Hot Climates?
Cold-weather dog breeds can live in hot climates, but they require special care to prevent overheating. Their thick double coats, designed to trap warmth in freezing temperatures, can make it difficult for them to stay cool in the heat. Without proper precautions, they may be at risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. While these breeds can adapt with proper care, they will always be more comfortable in cooler climates. If you live in a hot area, consider whether a heat-tolerant breed might be a better fit!
How to Keep Cold-Weather Breeds Cool in Hot Climates
If you have a snow-loving breed in a warm environment, follow these essential tips to keep them safe and comfortable.
- Provide Shade & Indoor Cooling. Always offer a cool, shaded area or air-conditioned space where they can escape the heat.
- Keep Them Hydrated. Make sure they have access to fresh, cool water at all times.
- Avoid the Hottest Parts Of The Day. Exercise them early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent overheating.
- Never Shave Their Coat. Their double coat helps regulate temperature—instead, regular brushing removes excess fur and improves airflow.
- Use Cooling Accessories. Cooling mats, vests, and frozen treats can help them stay comfortable.
- Watch for Signs of Heatstroke. Heavy panting, excessive drooling, weakness, or vomiting are signs of overheating – get them to a cool area and offer water immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know some of our readers still have questions about snow dog breeds or the best dog breeds for cold weather. If you don’t see yours below, ask us in the comments section, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Which Is The Best Cold-Weather Dog Breed?
Living in a place with a colder climate does not necessarily have to be a chilly experience when you have a loving canine companion to keep you warm. Each breed featured has unique traits that set them apart from other breeds. Each breed in this list will be sturdy in the face of freezing temperatures. Whether you need a working buddy to help you complete complex tasks in the snow or simply a family pet who can make you happy, there’s certainly a frost-loving furry friend that suits your needs.
Do Cold-Weather Dogs Get Cold?
Yes, even cold-weather breeds can get too cold in extreme temperatures, wet conditions, or strong winds. While they tolerate the cold better than other dogs, they still need shelter, proper care, and protection from frostbite and hypothermia.
Should I Shave My Cold-Weather Dog In Summer?
No! You should never shave a double-coated dog, even in hot weather. While it might seem like shaving their thick fur would help them stay cool, it actually does more harm than good. Cold-weather breeds have a double coat, which serves two important functions. In winter, it traps heat to keep them warm. In summer, it acts as insulation, keeping hot air out and protecting their skin from sunburn and overheating. When you shave a double-coated dog, you remove this natural temperature regulation, making them more vulnerable to heatstroke, sunburn, and skin irritation. Additionally, their fur may not grow back properly, leading to patchy, uneven coats and long-term discomfort.
Do Cold-Weather Dogs Need Coats Or Sweaters?
Most cold-weather dog breeds do not need coats or sweaters because their thick double coats provide natural insulation against the cold. Breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, Newfoundlands, and Saint Bernards are built to handle freezing temperatures and snow without extra protection. However, there are some situations where a coat or sweater can be beneficial, even for cold-tolerant breeds:
- Puppies. Young dogs haven’t fully developed their thick adult coat and can get cold more easily.
- Senior Dogs. Older dogs may struggle to regulate body temperature and need extra warmth.
- Sick Or Underweight Dogs. A dog recovering from an illness or one that is underweight may not have enough body fat to stay warm.
- Extreme Conditions. If temperatures drop below -20°C (-4°F) or there are high winds, even cold-weather breeds can benefit from an extra layer.
- Wet Conditions. If it’s cold and wet (freezing rain, slush, or icy water), a waterproof jacket can help prevent their coat from getting soaked if they’re out for a prolonged amount of time, which can lead to hypothermia.
Other Ways To Take Care Of Your Snow Dog Breed
Providing your dog with high-quality food and reliable pet insurance is essential for their overall well-being. A nutritious diet, rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, supports their energy levels, coat health, and longevity. Investing in a high-quality diet like fresh dog food can help prevent allergies, digestive issues, and obesity, ensuring your pup stays in top shape. Additionally, pet insurance offers peace of mind by covering unexpected vet bills, from a new allergy to emergency treatments. You can give your furry friend the happy, healthy life they deserve with the right combination of quality nutrition and financial protection.
Do you have a snow dog breed? Do you have any adorable stories to share with us and your fellow readers? Tell us about your cold-weather dog in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Michelle has been a dog owner her entire life. She has tossed lots of human snacks to her hounds over the years, but not before doing lengthy research to find out which are safe, which can be given in extreme moderation, and which are off limits! She’s also managed many upset dog tummies (at home and at the vet) because even if food is considered safe for most, it is not always okay for every canine. She’s part of a team of dog specialists at Canine Journal who have over a decade of experience researching, testing, and writing about everything you need to know to keep your pup healthy and happy.
