15 Dog Breeds That Thrive in Harsh Cold Weathers

When winter arrives, and snow covers the ground, some dogs are in their element, ready to frolic in the frosty wonderland. These winter warriors aren’t just about fluff and cuteness; they have thick coats, sturdy builds, and a love for cold weather. If you’re looking for a winter buddy who will not only withstand but also revel in the winter chill, consider any of these 15 dog breeds.
Siberian Husky

With striking blue eyes and iconic appearance, Siberian Huskies are synonymous with snowy landscapes. Originating from Siberia, these medium-sized sled dogs have thick double coats that insulate them against extreme cold. With strong, compact bodies, they retain heat efficiently, staying warm in freezing temperatures. Huskies are not only built for the cold but also enjoy it, often seen leaping through snow with boundless energy.
Alaskan Malamute

Known for their remarkable strength and endurance, Alaskan Malamutes were bred to haul heavy loads through harsh Arctic conditions. Their dense double coat consists of a woolly undercoat and a coarse outer layer, providing superior insulation for the most severe winters. Malamutes are bigger and more powerful than Huskies. Despite their formidable build, they are friendly and affectionate, both as working dogs and family pets.
Bernese Mountain Dog

Hailing from the Swiss Alps, Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, gentle giants with a thick, tri-colored coat that offers excellent protection against cold weather. They are calm and have a friendly demeanor that makes them beloved family pets. On the other hand, their strength and agility enable them to work on farms and in mountainous regions. Bernese Mountain Dogs are particularly well-suited to snowy climates, where their dense fur keeps them warm.
Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are known for their sweet temperament and gentle nature, making them excellent family companions. Originally bred for working in the icy waters off the coast of Newfoundland, these large, powerful dogs are adept at swimming in cold conditions and pulling nets for fishermen. A distinctive characteristic of this breed is their webbed feet, which makes them great swimmers.
Saint Bernard

Fondly called the firemen of the Swiss Alps, rescue work in the Swiss Alps has made Saint Bernards famous for their cold-weather abilities. These massive dogs have a thick, dense coat that protects them from the cold and snow. Their impressive size, strength, and keen sense of direction make them perfect for navigating snowy environments and assisting in rescue missions.
Tibetan Mastiff

Towering and majestic, Tibetan Mastiffs are the guardians of the Himalayas, bred to protect livestock in some of the harshest climates on earth. Donning a dense, heavy double coat that keeps them warm in frigid temperatures, their independent and protective nature makes them excellent watchdogs. These imposing dogs are known for their loyalty and courage, thriving in cold environments where their thick fur and formidable presence are invaluable.
Akita

From the mountainous regions of Japan, Akitas are well-suited for cold weather. They are large, powerful dogs loved for their loyalty and protective instincts. Their double-layered fur, consisting of a dense undercoat and a shorter, weather-resistant outer coat, provides excellent insulation to adapt to various weather conditions. Being only longer than their vertical height balances them for the unevenness seen in snowy terrains.
Norwegian Elkhound

A breed with a history dating back to the Vikings, the Norwegian Elkhound is a hardy and resilient dog built for cold weather. Having worked to earn their title as Norway’s National dog, I know that this breed can be used by herders, guardians, and hunters of big game like the Elk. The thick, silver-gray coat offers substantial protection against the elements.
Chow Chow

Distinctive for their lion-like mane and blue-black tongue, Chow Chows are ancient dogs that adapt well to cold climates. Originally from northern China, they are known for their aloof and independent demeanor. Featuring a sturdy build, dense fur, and spectacular square profile, they are well-equipped for winter weather.
Keeshond

Known for their distinctive “spectacles” around their eyes, these medium-sized dogs have a luxurious double coat with superb insulation. Keeshonds, which came from the Netherlands, were historically used as barge watchdogs. They have a dense coat that makes them particularly suited for snowy climates, allowing them to enjoy winter activities to the fullest.
Great Pyrenees

Fossil evidence suggests that the Great Pyrenees was introduced to the Pyrenees mountain range in southern France between 1800 and 1000 B.C. The Basque people in this region developed the breed to guard sheep and homes. Dewclaws in their rear limbs give them traction in snowy terrains, making them excellent climbers in cold mountainous regions. With a thick and white coat, they’re loved by many, including Queen Victoria.
Shiba Inu

From Japan, the Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six original Japanese dogs. They have a sturdy breed with a dense double coat that offers superb protection against the cold. Their plush fur and agile build make them well-suited for winter activities. Shiba Inus are famous for their spirited personality and independence, thriving in environments where they can explore. Despite their small size, they are robust and resilient, perfectly adapted to handle cold climates.
Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund, a breed traditionally used for herding reindeer in the Arctic Circle, is well-equipped for cold weather. Although they’re one of the most popular breeds in the cold home country of Finland, the Lapphund isn’t very common outside of Finland. Their resilience and adaptability make them thrive in snowy conditions, where they showcase their herding instincts and playful spirit.
Icelandic Sheepdog

Being Iceland’s only native dog breed, the Icelandic Sheepdog is perfectly adapted to the island’s harsh, cold climate. This breed gains attention for their friendly and energetic personalities and excel in various outdoor activities. As a Nordic spitz breed, it is no surprise that Icelandic sheepdogs are keen, sensitive, and self-confident dogs bred to survive in the harsh icy conditions common to their Nordic roots.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka, this breed originates from the Caucasus Mountains, where they were bred to protect livestock from predators. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a dense, heavy coat that insulates them from extreme cold. These large, powerful dogs are reliable because of their protective instincts and loyalty, and they have an imposing presence that is suited for their guardian role.