Some dogs are naturally better equipped to deal with cold weather, and certain breeds are especially suited to the climate.
Siberian Husky
There are many identified best dog breeds for cold weather which is appealing to most fur parents. One of these breeds is the Siberian Husky. Siberian Husky dogs are known for their thick fur coats, which keep them warm in the coldest weather. They are also known for their exceptional physical endurance. They are very gentle-natured and affectionate dogs who like to be around their family. They also enjoy human company and bark when they sense danger or threat.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a medium-sized, strong-bodied dog with a thick double coat in various colors. It was originally bred to work as a sled dog and is related to Siberian huskies, Greenland sled dogs, Samoyeds, and American Eskimo dogs. These working dogs are loyal and protective animals and require daily exercise and training to be happy. They can also be escape artists, so securely fence your yard!
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a medium-sized, compact dog descended from European Spitz dogs. This breed is built to withstand cold weather, as their double coat helps them stay warm during winter. They are playful, energetic, and intelligent. They also have a strong desire to please and excel at herding. These dogs are happiest in homes with lots of exercises and mental stimulation. Without this, they can become bored and irritable. A fenced yard and plenty of toys can help.
Akita
An ancient Japanese breed, the Akita has a thick double coat and webbed paws that keep them warm and safe from cold weather. They are loyal and affectionate dogs who will always be there for their families.
They can be extremely protective of their humans, so socialize them with people, other dogs, and new situations at an early age. This will help them avoid becoming aggressive toward strangers or other dogs.
Shiba Inu
Originally bred in Japan for hunting, these smaller dogs can cope with the cold weather and mountainous terrain. Their double coat consists of a thick undercoat and stiff topcoat, which keeps them warm and dry.
Despite their strong prey drive, they are excellent family dogs that bond closely with their owners. They are loyal and alert but may be suspicious of new people, so socialization is recommended. These intelligent dogs require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation daily. If not, they will become bored and destructive.
Tibetan Terrier
Often called the “Holy Dog of Tibet,” the Tibetan Terrier is an ancient breed with a long history. They were originally bred as companions and watchdogs for Buddhist monks, and their loyal, affectionate nature makes them perfect family pets today. They’re active and agile dogs, and their large, flat feet act like snowshoes to help them navigate the mountainous terrain in their native Tibet. The Tibetan Terrier is an excellent family pet as long as they are properly socialized at a young age. They may be cautious or reserved with strangers but will warm up to people and other pets as they get to know them.
Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is a medium-sized herding dog with a thick, dense coat that helps insulate them against cold weather. They come in various colors, including black and brown (with or without tan markings), cream, sable, and wolf sable. These dogs were originally bred to help members of the Sami tribe live in the cold Nordic climates of Finland, Sweden and Norway. They’re friendly around strangers but can be a little reserved with children. Early socialization is important to ensure they develop into well-adjusted family pets.
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are large, muscular dogs with a double coat that is water resistant. Their outer coat is long, coarse, straight, or slightly wavy; their undercoat is dense, fine, and woolly. They can be white or have gray, tan or reddish-brown markings. They are very protective, especially around children and other animals they consider their pack. If you decide to adopt a Pyr, know what you are getting into and that your household is appropriate for this breed’s temperament. These breeds tend to be overly sensitive, so socialize them early to prevent behavioral issues. They also benefit from obedience training and trials, which give them a sense of purpose.
Komondor
Komondors are ancient dogs originating in Hungary, where they served as herding and livestock guardians for centuries. They’re a strong, powerful breed that needs a confident, assertive owner who can display natural leadership. They can be willful and aggressive but can become excellent family dogs with proper socialization, training, and a consistent owner-dog bond. These large, muscular dogs have a unique corded coat that doesn’t shed traditionally but needs frequent care to keep its cords separate. They also need routine ear cleanings, and nail trims to prevent ear infections. They have moderate exercise requirements and are very active, so a fenced yard is essential to their well-being. They like to play with other dogs and humans but may need to do better in a large dog park with many unfamiliar canines. Komondors are intelligent dogs who enjoy training. They respond well to praise and consistent, humane corrections. Early socialization prevents them from developing fear and aggression as puppies.