When winter rolls in, some dogs thrive in the cold while others shiver at the slightest breeze. If you live in a snowy climate or enjoy winter hikes, it’s essential to know which breeds can handle the chill and which should be kept warm indoors. Here’s a look at eight cold-loving breeds and eight that prefer the sun over the snow.

1. Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies were bred to pull sleds across vast Arctic landscapes, making them one of the most cold-resistant breeds. Their thick double coat insulates them from freezing temperatures, while their energy levels help generate warmth. Huskies are playful, social, and need plenty of exercise to stay happy. However, their independence and intelligence mean they require patient training. If you’re looking for a winter adventure companion, a Husky might be the perfect fit.

2. Alaskan Malamute

Often mistaken for a Husky, the Alaskan Malamute is even larger and more powerful. Originally bred by the Inuit for hauling heavy loads across ice and snow, these dogs have an incredibly dense coat that keeps them warm in subzero temperatures. Malamutes are friendly, loyal, and affectionate but require firm training due to their strong-willed nature. They love outdoor activities and will happily join you on long hikes, especially in the winter.

3. Saint Bernard

Famous for their heroic rescues in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are built for the cold. Their thick, water-resistant coat and strong frame allow them to navigate through heavy snow with ease. These gentle giants are known for their loving and calm nature, making them great family dogs. However, they do require regular grooming to maintain their heavy coats, and they thrive best in cooler climates.

4. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands were bred to work in icy waters, originally used by Canadian fishermen for water rescues. Their dense, water-resistant fur and webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, even in freezing temperatures. Despite their large size, Newfoundlands are gentle, patient, and great with kids. If you live in a cold climate and have access to water, a Newfoundland will thrive in your home.

5. Bernese Mountain Dog

Hailing from the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Mountain Dog is built to withstand frigid temperatures. Their thick, tri-colored coat provides excellent insulation, and they enjoy outdoor activities, no matter how cold it gets. These dogs are incredibly affectionate, good-natured, and loyal, making them wonderful family pets. However, they do have a shorter lifespan and require regular brushing to prevent matting.

6. Keeshond

The Keeshond, with its plush double coat and fox-like face, is well-equipped for chilly climates. Originally bred as watchdogs on Dutch barges, these dogs are highly intelligent, social, and devoted to their families. Their thick fur provides excellent protection against the cold, but it also requires consistent grooming to prevent tangles and shedding. A Keeshond will happily romp in the snow but prefers to stay close to its family.

7. Tibetan Mastiff

Originally from the Himalayas, the Tibetan Mastiff is accustomed to extreme cold. Their thick, woolly coat provides incredible insulation, and they are known for their independence and protective nature. These dogs require strong leadership and socialization but are extremely loyal to their families. They prefer cold weather and can struggle in warmer climates, making them best suited for those who experience harsh winters.

8. Akita

Akitas originated in Japan and were bred for hunting in cold conditions. Their thick double coat helps them withstand freezing temperatures, while their strong, muscular build allows them to move effortlessly through deep snow. Akitas are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they require early training and socialization to ensure they grow into well-mannered companions.

9. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny, short-haired dogs that struggle to retain body heat. Originating from warm climates, they shiver even in mildly cool weather. Their thin coats offer minimal insulation, and their small size makes them vulnerable to chilly winds. If you live in a colder region, you’ll need to invest in warm sweaters and limit their time outdoors during winter. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas have big personalities and love to stay close to their owners for warmth and comfort. They are best suited to homes where they can stay indoors most of the time.

10. Greyhound

Greyhounds have an incredibly lean build with almost no body fat, making them ill-suited for cold weather. Their short coat provides little insulation, and they quickly become uncomfortable in chilly temperatures. Greyhounds are highly sensitive to temperature changes and may even require a sweater indoors during winter. If you own a Greyhound in a colder climate, make sure to provide warm clothing and keep them indoors as much as possible. They are affectionate and gentle dogs but require special care when it comes to exposure to the cold.

11. Doberman Pinscher

Despite their strong and athletic build, Dobermans are not well-equipped for the cold. Their short, thin coat provides little insulation, and they can become chilled quickly. Dobermans do best in moderate to warm climates, though they can tolerate cold weather for short periods if they’re wearing protective clothing. They are affectionate, loyal, and excellent guard dogs but prefer to be warm. If you have a Doberman in a cold climate, ensure they have proper shelter and warmth indoors.

12. Dachshund

With their long body and short legs, Dachshunds are close to the ground, which makes them more vulnerable to cold surfaces. Their short coat offers little protection from the elements, and they tend to shiver in cold weather. If you have a Dachshund, consider providing a cozy sweater and keeping outdoor time brief during winter. They may be adventurous and curious, but their body structure makes them prone to getting cold quickly, especially when walking on snow or icy paths.

13. Pug

Pugs struggle in both extreme cold and heat due to their short snouts, which make it difficult to regulate body temperature. Their thin coat provides minimal warmth, and they are prone to shivering in chilly weather. Pugs prefer to be indoors where it’s warm and will often burrow under blankets to stay cozy. If you own a Pug, ensure they have warm bedding and clothing when going outside in the cold.

14. Italian Greyhound

Even more delicate than the standard Greyhound, Italian Greyhounds are extremely sensitive to cold temperatures. Their slender frame, lack of body fat, and short coat make them susceptible to chills. They often require sweaters, boots, and heated environments to stay comfortable during the winter months. If you live in a cold climate, be prepared to keep your Italian Greyhound indoors most of the time.

15. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested, especially the hairless variety, has virtually no protection against the cold. Without a fur coat, they are highly vulnerable to chilly weather and should always be kept indoors when temperatures drop. Even the coated variety has fine hair that doesn’t provide much warmth. These dogs thrive in warm, cozy environments.

16. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers may have long, silky hair, but their coat lacks the density needed for insulation. They are small and delicate, making them particularly sensitive to cold temperatures. Many Yorkies prefer to be carried or wrapped in blankets rather than walking on icy surfaces. If you own one, consider investing in warm clothing and keeping them inside as much as possible during winter.

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