Brrr! The holiday season and the winter chill is upon us, and with it came snow, cold, ice, wind, short days and long nights.
Whether you’re looking to dash through the snow or simply live in a climate where your daily walks could be pretty darn frigid, there’s certainly a frost-loving furry friend that suits your needs.
Here are 10 of the best dog breeds known for their ability to tolerate — and even love — the cold.
1. Siberian Husky
When you think of snow dogs, Siberian Husky is probably one of the first breeds that come to mind. Originating in Siberia, they were initially bred specifically as sled dogs — some are still used in this capacity.
Siberian Huskies are known for blue or multi-colored eyes, thick double coat, high endurance and huge amounts of energy and the ability to cope with sub-zero temperatures.
Although Huskies are adored for being friendly and gentle, they need obedience training from a young age and can be a difficult and stubborn breed to train. Surprisingly, this high-energy breed is generally low shedders except during the times of year when they blow their coat.
2. Alaskan Malamute
These talkative, patient, and affectionate Nordic wonders may look very similar to their closely related cousin, the Husky, but they are in fact the largest, and one of the oldest, of the arctic dogs. Bred by the Mahlemiut Inuit tribe from Alaska for hundreds of years, these dogs were used to help haul heavy loads through snowy territory as well as to hunt seals and polar bears.
Mals tolerance to the cold is helped largely by their heavy bone, deep chest, powerful shoulders, erect ears and dense double fur coat which is one of the beefiest of all breeds.
Despite their strength, they develop stronger bonds with their owners and are a more companionable breed. More importantly, they are high-energy dogs that need a job and consistent leadership and without it, they're likely express their boredom, frustration and pent up energy in ways you don’t like. They are also prolific shedders who need plenty of grooming to keep their coats healthy.
3. Newfoundland
The gentle and fluffy Newfie named for their original home in Newfoundland, Canada. Newfoundlands were bred primarily to support Canadian fishermen negotiating the icy waters of the North Atlantic; pull logs from the forest for lumberjacks and in more recent times, used for water and mountain rescues.
These noble giants are known for their barrel ribs, oily waterproof coat and webbed feet to aid them in the icy waters they were originally bred to work in.
Despite their massive size, their high shedding, and their propensity to drool excessively, they make a great companion and lovable addition to any family, even those with young children because of their calm and patient temperament, friendliness and protectiveness.
4. Keeshond
The amiable Keeshond is a medium-sized spitz dog of ample coat, native to the Netherlands, where it acted as a companion and watchdog for the barges on the Dutch canals in the 17th and 18th centuries.
These square, sturdy companions are famous for the distinctive 'spectacles' on his foxy face, pointed ears, an abundant coat and a plumed tail carried high over the back.
These adaptable pups are alert, intelligent, people-lovers and willing to participate in all family activities- qualities that won them status as the most beloved dog in Holland. Besides being an excellent family pet, the Keeshond also gets along well other dogs and pets
5. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, who looks just like a big, cute and cuddly teddy bear earned his saintly name by rescuing pilgrims traveling to Rome via the St. Bernard Pass, as well as to rescue skiers, avalanche victims and stranded alpinists.
Not surprisingly, they can trek for miles through deep, fresh snow without too much difficulty thanks to their muscular build, thick coat, durability and intelligence.
Despite his size, the Saint Bernard is truly a kind, gentle, intelligent, good-natured dog that is often known as a ‘nanny dog’ with an affectionate, docile personality that makes them a perfect family pet.
6. Samoyed
Originally bred to hunt, haul sledges, and herd reindeer for the semi-nomadic Siberian people, Samoyeds are powerful, tireless dogs with a dense, weather-resistant double coat with a silky underlayer.
As would be expected for a breed of northern origin, the Samoyed dog breed is very muscular, ready to spring into action with a push off from short, stocky legs.
The smiling sledge dogs, Samoyeds, are also known to be very fond of humans and loves to play with kids, so they are a perfect addition to the family. But, a bored Sammie is fussy and can get into trouble, even plucking out his fur if distressed, meaning they must have an owner that is able and willing to give them the daily exercise they require.
7. Norwegian Elkhound
Originating in Norway, the gorgeous Norwegian Elkhound dog breed, with their wolf-like face, has been guardians of their owner’s territory, the keepers of their flock, as well as companions in the hunt.
Their double coat, erect ears, deep chest, sturdy legs, and muscular thighs certainly help them with their work ethic, keeping them exceptionally warm even in the coldest Scandinavian winters.
This intelligent, independent dog is a trustworthy friend ever after, but understand clearly that pleasing you is not the highest item on his to-do list. A true adventurer, the Elkhound needs plenty of strenuous exercise and a firm and consistent owner if it is to thrive.
As spring rolls around, prepare yourself for their major seasonal shed.
8. German Shepherd
Well known for their excellent ability as working dogs for services like the police, search and rescue services and security, the German Shepherds, with their double coat, are one of the best dog breeds for cold weather.
German Shepherd is a large, agile, muscular dog of noble character and high intelligence that was originally bred in Germany to herd flocks all day.
This loyal, confident, courageous, and steady dog will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians willing to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones.
They're also easy to train and have huge amounts of energy, so they need a lot of activity and exercise to avoid becoming bored or challenging to handle.
German "shedder" are prone to shedding, shedding, shedding. During spring and fall, you'll need to brush them several times a week to keep your dog—and your home—looking its best.
9. Akita
The Akita, also known as the Akita Inu, Japanese Akita or Great Japanese Dog, was traditionally used as a watchdog and hunter in the cold mountainous regions of Japan.
They’re a very handsome dog whose heavy bones gives them sturdiness and strength and a thick, short double coat with a harsh outer coat which keeps them warm in the coldest of weather.
Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animal, yet Akitas are affectionate, respectful, and amusing dogs when properly trained and socialized. Certainly, owners should be prepared for some cleanup, because Akita is bound to shed quite a bit.
10. Chow Chow
Originally bred in China as palace guard dogs for Royalty, the Chow Chow presents the picture of a muscular, deep-chested aristocrat with an air of inscrutable timelessness.
With their majestic ruff around their face and bear-ish expressions, Chow Chows are the bright, refined lions of the dog world. Their exceptionally thick, insulating double coats and bushy tails make them another strong choice for a cold weather house dog.
They can be aloof and suspicious of strangers, but well-socialized Chows will show loyalty to their family and make an easygoing companion for the right household. One of the best things dog owners like about this catlike breed is that they require minimal exercise and don’t give off typical dog smells.
Conclusion
Always remember, although these breeds are better than others in cold conditions, cold weather care and safety should be top considerations.
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