Best Dogs for Cold Climates
If you live in Alaska, Canada, Minnesota, or any region with cold winters, the right dog breed can actually enjoy the cold weather as much as you do. These breeds were built for it.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Top 10 Breeds
Siberian Husky
MediumBuilt for -50°F Arctic conditions. Loves snow and thrives in cold weather.
Alaskan Malamute
LargeMassive endurance sled dog built for extreme cold. Lives for winter activity.
Bernese Mountain Dog
LargeSwiss mountain breed with a thick triple coat. Loves cold weather and snow.
Saint Bernard
LargeAlpine rescue dog built for cold mountain conditions. Thrives in snowy environments.
Samoyed
LargeSiberian breed with a thick white double coat designed for Arctic temperatures.
Norwegian Elkhound
MediumAncient Scandinavian hunting dog. Built for cold, rugged terrain.
Great Pyrenees
LargeMountain livestock guardian with a dense weatherproof double coat.
Newfoundland
LargeCold-water rescue dog with a heavy, waterproof coat. Loves cold and water.
German Shepherd
LargeDense double coat provides good cold-weather protection. Versatile in all conditions.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
SmallDouble coat handles cold climates well. Originally bred to herd cattle in Welsh hills.
Breeds to Avoid
Tips for Best Dogs for Cold Climates
✓Even cold-hardy breeds should not be left outside in extreme cold (below -10°F).
✓Check paw pads for snow and ice buildup between toes — use dog boots or paw balm.
✓Road salt and ice melt can irritate paws — rinse after walks.
✓Short-haired dogs of any breed may need a dog coat in very cold weather.
✓Make sure water does not freeze in outdoor bowls — use a heated water bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog for cold snowy climates?
Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Samoyeds are the top cold-weather breeds. All were developed in extreme cold and have thick double coats that provide excellent insulation.
Can any dog live outside in winter?
Only a few cold-adapted breeds can safely spend significant time outdoors in winter — and even then, they still need shelter, unfrozen water, and protection from wind. Most dogs should live indoors with access to outdoor exercise.
Do dogs need coats in winter?
Small dogs, short-haired breeds, puppies, senior dogs, and any dog with thin skin need a coat in cold weather (below 40–45°F). Cold-adapted double-coated breeds like Huskies and Bernese Mountain Dogs do not need coats and may overheat in them.
How do cold-weather breeds handle summer?
With care. Provide shade, AC, and limit exercise during hot hours. Many cold-weather breeds can tolerate mild summers but suffer in hot climates. Double-coated breeds should never be shaved — their coat actually insulates them from heat as well.
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