10 Winter Dog Breeds Built for Snow and Cold Weather
Some dogs aren’t just ready for winter—they were born for it! As early dogs became domesticated, they took on vital roles such as hunting, herding, and guarding. Over generations, selective breeding refined traits that made them more effective at these jobs, giving rise to distinct breeds and leading to the creation of dog breed groups that are still used today.
What is a Winter Dog Breed?
Dog breeds that originated in cold, snowy, mountainous regions developed traits over the centuries to help them withstand these harsh climates. Thick, insulating double coats, strong muscles, and impressive stamina allowed them to work—and thrive—in frigid conditions. While some evolved into powerful giants with dense muscles and heavy bones, others became agile, medium-sized dogs with remarkable endurance.
Even today, when most dogs enjoy the comfort of warm homes, some snow dog breeds come alive when the temperature drops. From Siberian Huskies bounding through fresh powder to Bernese Mountain Dogs happily lounging in a snowbank, these are true winter dogs at their core.
If you live in a chilly climate or enjoy snowy adventures, choosing a dog that can match your winter energy makes all the difference. These are some of the best dog breeds for cold weather:
5. Lapphund (Finnish & Swedish)
Read on to discover more about these snow dog breeds perfectly suited to life in the cold.
Top 10 Winter Dog Breeds
#1: Akita
The Akita is a Japanese dog that thrives in cold weather! They’re one of the world’s oldest dog breeds, originating thousands of years ago in the snowy mountains of northern Japan. Bred by the Matagi people to hunt large game like bears and to guard homes, the Akita is strong, courageous, and able to thrive in harsh winter conditions.
Muscular and powerfully built, Akitas have a dense, medium-length coat that provides excellent insulation against the cold. They especially enjoy enrichment activities that challenge both their mind and body. Take your Akita on a winter hike to explore new scents or engage them in advanced obedience training.
#2: Alaskan Malamute
Bred by the Malamuit people of northwest Alaska, the Alaskan Malamute is one of the most iconic Alaskan dog breeds and a powerhouse among sled dogs. Living in an isolated region surrounded by snow and mountains, this winter dog was essential to the Malamuits for hauling heavy loads, freighting supplies, and providing reliable transportation across frozen terrain.
Large, strong, and deeply loyal, Malamutes have a heavy coat that protects them from the Arctic cold. They excel at endurance activities, so bring your Malamute along on a snowshoeing trek or a long trail run.
🐕 Related: 8 Sled Dog Breeds and Their Fascinating History
#3: Bernese Mountain Dog
Originating in the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog worked alongside farmers to herd cattle, guard livestock, and haul dairy products through the hills and valleys of Bern. Generations of pulling carts and wagons in rugged, snowy terrain built their strength and resilience to make them not only a classic mountain dog breed, but also true cold weather dogs.
Well-muscled and sturdy, Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, tricolor coat that insulates their body from snow and wind. They are great hiking dogs and are even strong enough to carry their own dog pack!
#4: Great Pyrenees
Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the Great Pyrenees spent centuries guarding sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. Bred to defend the flock against wolves and bears, they needed size, strength, and stamina to withstand cold nights outdoors. Their impressive build, often exceeding 100 pounds, earned them the French nickname “Le Grand Chien des Montagnes,” or “the big dog of the mountains.”
Great Pyrenees are cold weather dogs known for being patient, calm, and protective of their family. Your Pyr would love to join you on a long walk in the winter, and they excel in therapy dog work where their gentle presence can comfort others.
#5: Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund and Swedish Lapphund are both Arctic dogs whose history stretches back thousands of years to the Sami people of Lapland, a region north of the Arctic Circle in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. Originally tasked with hunting reindeer and later herding them across the tundra, these winter dogs developed the endurance, agility, and dense fur needed to work in extreme cold. Over time, they evolved into distinct breeds, but their shared heritage is unmistakable.
Both of these Arctic dogs are quick, intelligent, and loyal. Keep them engaged with dog agility training or honor their heritage of traversing the Lapland tundra by bringing them along on cross-country skiing adventures!
#6: Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a true sea dog, working for centuries alongside Canadian fishermen in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Known for hauling fishing nets, pulling carts, and rescuing people in water emergencies, their thick, water-resistant coat and partially webbed feet helped them stay warm, dry, and powerful in icy seas.
Gentle, strong, and dependable, Newfs have a natural love for the water and will happily swim in any weather. Indulge their instincts with water fetch games or invite them to join you for a safe polar plunge.
#7: Norwegian Elkhound
Like the Newfoundland, the Norwegian Elkhound has a seafaring past: these Arctic dogs sailed with Vikings! Trusted and reliable companions, Norwegian Elkhounds helped with herding, hunting, and protecting their people. In Norway’s rocky terrain and frigid climate, their dense double coat and powerful, athletic build were essential for survival.
Still utilized for moose hunting in Norway today, the Norwegian Elkhound can channel that same energy into more peaceful activities closer to your home. Engage their senses with scent training and tracking games.
#8: Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is the quintessential snow dog. They’re so popular in the US that some may think they’re an American husky dog breed, but this breed actually originated in northeast Asia. Huskies worked as sled dogs for the Chukchi people, hauling supplies and transporting people across frozen tundra. To endure the intense winters, these Arctic dogs relied on their thick double coat and natural stamina.
Siberian Huskies remain the most popular sled dog breed today, with some still bred to compete in demanding events like Alaska’s annual Iditarod. Do Huskies like the cold? Absolutely. Even without a sled, Siberian Huskies thrive on winter activities. Create a backyard agility course for them to navigate in the snow or bring them along on a brisk winter run.
#9: Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard originated as a monastery dog in the mountains of Switzerland, serving as a companion and protector to monks. Their keen sense of smell and remarkable strength made them legendary snow rescue dogs, saving travelers stranded in the treacherous St. Bernard Pass between Italy and Switzerland.
Massive and powerful, often weighing well over 100 pounds, Saint Bernards are gentle giants who enjoy winter weather. Challenge their sense of smell by burying their favorite natural chews in the snow for them to uncover!
#10: Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed that spent thousands of years guarding homes and temples in Tibet, a region high in the Himalayas. Bred by nomadic peoples to withstand extreme altitudes and subzero temperatures, Tibetan Mastiffs developed a dense coat, imposing size, and protective nature.
Independent but loyal, Tibetan Mastiffs prefer purposeful activity over casual play. They may enjoy “patrol” walks around your property or a winter camping trip that echoes their Himalayan heritage.
Other Cold Weather Dogs
Many other northern dog breeds also thrive in chilly temperatures. If you’re looking for a winter dog breed, consider:
- American Eskimo Dog
- Anatolian Shepherd
- Chow Chow
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Keeshond
- Samoyed
- Shiba Inu
Stay Cool and Stay Safe
Even though these winter dog breeds are built for cold weather, they can still suffer from frostbite or hypothermia if exposed for too long. How cold is too cold for dogs? Most will start to feel uncomfortable when temperatures drop below freezing. For double-coated snow dog breeds, the risk increases once it falls below 20°F. If you notice your dog shivering, lifting their paws, or whining, bring them inside immediately to warm up.
These cold weather dogs have their limits in the opposite direction, too. Many struggle in hot, humid conditions, and can overheat quickly—or even develop heat exhaustion. If you live in a warm region, consider a dog breed that does well in hot climates instead.
Whether in snow or sun, knowing your dog’s limits will help you keep them healthy, happy, and ready for your next adventure together. Be sure to contact your vet if your dog appears to be suffering the effects of hypothermia or heat exhaustion.
