16 Snow Dog Breeds That Love Winter

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 10–14 years
• Temperament: Clever, introverted, outdoorsy

Originally from a snowy mountain region in Japan, Akitas were once prized as dogs of nobility. They’re also known as “snow country dogs” because of their love for cold weather; once the temperature drops, these dogs are happiest outside.

However, Akitas are also introverted and more than happy to cozy up with you on the couch after a winter hike through the snow.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–14 years
• Temperament: Adventurous, intelligent, spirited

Don’t be fooled by this dog’s wolf-like appearance; Alaskan Malamutes are playful and happy pets.

A cousin of the Husky, the Malamute once worked as a sled dog for Inuit tribes and played a big role during the Klondike Gold Rush by hauling sleds for miners. Their muscular build and thick double coat made them perfect for the job.

But you don’t need to live in the far north to bring home this snow dog—Alaskan Malamutes can adapt to warmer environments as long as they have access to AC. Just be prepared for a lot of seasonal shedding (and brushing).

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Social butterfly, energetic, brainy

Despite their name, American Eskimo Dogs aren’t connected to Inuit peoples. Rather, they’re relatives of the Pomeranian. But like many snow dog breeds, Eskies have a thick double coat to help them in cold weather.

These white balls of fluff are highly energetic, outgoing pets who love the spotlight. They’re best for pet parents who can give them a lot of attention, especially when it comes to grooming their fluffy white coat.

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 7–10 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, fun-loving, loyal

Bernese Mountain Dogs (also known as Berners) thrive in cold weather thanks to their brawny stature and silky brown-and-white coat. They love the outdoors and are always down for a hike or camping trip.

Berners are friendly, affectionate dogs who are great with children and become deeply attached to their pet parents. Their ideal home is one with plenty of outdoor space to roam and explore.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 8–12 years
• Temperament: Bright, loyal, stoic

Despite their love for cold weather, Chow Chows have a squishy, teddy-bear-like face that will melt your heart.

While you might have an urge to squeeze and cuddle them, know that Chow Chows aren’t overly affectionate. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be great family dogs—they simply need the right family, one that respects their boundaries and is committed to socialization and positive reinforcement training.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, vocal, hardy

Finnish Lapphunds, or Lappies, were once reindeer herders in Lapland, a region near the Arctic Circle spanning parts of Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Russia. Their thick coat helps them withstand frigid temperatures, and they’re agile, quick learners.

Because they’re a herding breed, Lappies are very bright and quick to learn, but they can be independent and strong-willed at times. They’ll need a patient pet parent (and lots of motivational training treats).

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Calm, confident, smart

The Great Pyrenees may resemble a polar bear thanks to their white fur and size, but this snow dog breed is actually very gentle. Once bred on snowy mountain tops, these calm dogs are built for cold climates. 

Because Great Pyrenees dogs are so even-tempered, they make wonderful family pets and are famously patient with children.

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 8–11 years
• Temperament: Cheerful, loyal, athletic

Outgoing and highly active, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are social butterflies with big personalities. These alpine (mountain) dogs originated from Switzerland and love the cold.

Although they don’t have long fur, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs’ coat is incredibly dense, which helps insulate them from the winter chill. If you do live in a warmer climate, this pup will be happiest with the AC on.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, devoted

Originally bred to be watchdogs for barges that sailed through the chilly waterfronts of Holland, today’s Keeshond dogs are affectionate companions who would much rather be lying on the couch with you. Their thick fur mane, spectacle-like eye markings, and fox-like face make them one of the most adorable snow dog breeds. 

While they retain some watchdog tendencies (they love to bark), Keeshonden are very friendly and outgoing. This, along with their moderate size, makes them well-suited for apartment living.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Brave, brainy, loyal

Beneath their fluffy white coat, the Kuvasz is a devoted companion who loves being outdoors. Cold weather isn’t a problem for them, thanks to their double coat and bushy tail that help them stay warm.

Kuvasz dogs need an experienced pet parent who can give them the consistent socialization and training they need to thrive.

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 9–10 years
• Temperament: Friendly, patient, charming

No, this isn’t a teddy bear—but Newfoundlands are probably the closest dog to a living stuffed animal.

Silly, sweet, and super friendly, these giant puppies originated in Canada, where they assisted in water rescues and hauled fishing nets. Their thick double coat and webbed paws make the Newfoundland breed an agile swimmer, even in freezing water.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, versatile

Hailing from Norway, Norwegian Elkhounds were once used to hunt moose, reindeer, and bears. Their silver-gray coat provides excellent protection in harsh wintry weather. 

These dogs are high-energy and intelligent, and they need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. An active family that loves going for runs and long weekend hikes is this cold-weather dog’s perfect match.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Active, cheery, outgoing

Samoyeds are the ultimate snow dog breed. Their fluffy white coat makes them look right at home next to a snowbank, and they’re named after the Samoyed people of Siberia. 

While they love the snow and being outside, Samoyeds are also happy to cuddle indoors. Historically, their warm coat kept both themselves and their humans warm through cold winter nights.

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 8–10 years
• Temperament: Loving, mellow, friendly

Saint Bernards originated in the Alps in the 17th century, where they worked as guardians for monks and rescue dogs for travelers who became trapped by snowstorms, according to the breed club.

They’re known as gentle giants because of their calm and affectionate nature, so they’re great family dogs. Though, your Saint Bernard might think they’re a lap dog, despite weighing well over 100 pounds.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Outdoorsy, social, cheeky

The quintessential snow dog breed, Siberian Huskies got their start as sled dogs in Siberia. And while today’s Huskies are more likely to be family pets than working dogs, they need the right family to thrive.

Siberian Huskies are intelligent, high-energy, and a bit mischievous. They need an experienced, active pet parent who enjoys outdoor adventures as much as they do.

• Size: Large to extra large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Brainy, introverted, loyal

With their floofy fur coat and their extra-large stature, Tibetan Mastiffs once guarded homes and monasteries in the cold mountains of Central Asia. Today, they maintain that stoic, watchful temperament.

While lovable with their family, this cold-weather dog can be wary of strangers. They need a pet parent who’s dedicated to proper training and socialization.

Even though these snow dog breeds love the cold, they still need protection from harsh conditions. Here are some tips to keep your pup warm, comfortable, and safe during cold weather.

• Use booties to protect paws from salted walkways and prevent frostbite.

• Provide heated beds and warm blankets for your dog to snuggle into after snowy walks.

• While snow dog breeds have coats thick enough to withstand cold weather, be alert for signs your dog is too cold. Bring them inside if they slow down, seek warmth, hold up their paws, or start shivering.
• Never leave your dog outside for long in cold weather.