Some dogs were just born for the cold temperatures… literally.
Not every pup is for freezing temperatures, snowy weather, icy wind, or deep snow. Some dogs step outside in winter, take one look around and decide, “nope. Absolutely not. I will be inside… where it is warm… forever.”
But then there are those other dogs. The winter warriors. The fluffy tanks. The cold-weather champions.
We are talking about seven dog breeds that excel in frosty environments. Dogs with thick double coats, sturdy frames, boundless energy, and a natural instinct for cold climates and snowy conditions.
These are the true cold-weather dogs who can thrive in icy environments. They guard livestock, pull sleds, rescue travelers, or just cuddle up after a long hike in winter weather.
Dog Breeds That Excel in Frosty Environments
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
A true gentle giant with one of the softest temperaments (and a heavy weight) in the world.
The Bernese Mountain Dog (you can just call them “Berner”) is one of the beautiful mountain dogs. They were originally bred in the Swiss Alps, and that’s where these pups were designed to be farm dogs who haul heavy loads, guard livestock, and help families in a region known for freezing temperatures and snowy landscapes.
Their thick double coat keeps them warm. Even during extreme cold.
And that sturdy build… yes, they are basically winter weather heroes.
Berners thrive in cold weather because they were made exactly for that environment. They do best when they have:
Space to run.
Snow on the ground (they LOVE it).
Enough cold weather to keep them comfortable.
As per Britannica, they are the most active giant, so they love active families, winter hiking, and outdoor play. Calm nature, loyal personality, and affectionate behavior are the reasons they are perfect companions for pet parents who want a loving dog who genuinely enjoys icy adventures
Just one thing, they get warm easily. So, summer…. their least favorite season.
2. Newfoundland
Newfoundland is a cloud turned into a dog.
Also called “Newfies”, these giants were developed centuries ago to work with Canadian fishermen. That meant freezing water, icy winds, and brutal winter weather almost every other day.
Their dense double coat is incredibly insulated. And their massive size helps them maintain body heat even in extreme temperatures.
Newfoundlands are also natural rescue dogs. They have saved people worldwide from icy waters. These working dogs are best at their art.
Newfies, these water dogs, excel in cold weather because of:
A thick ruff around the neck (extra insulation)
Webbed feet, as noted by PetMD, help them move through deep snow
A gentle giant temperament that makes them dependable working dogs
Strong swimming ability even in freezing cold
They are calm dogs with a patient nature. A Newfoundland is a winter buddy, we agree, but it is a full-on emotional support system wrapped in fur.
Just… prepare for heavy shedding. Yeah, lots of it!
3. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed that used to guard whole villages.
This breed was originally bred in the Himalayas, which is one of the coldest and harshest environments. Their main job was to guard livestock, protect families, and survive in snowy mountains where temperatures dropped dangerously low.
Their thick double coat, powerful frame, and loyal nature make them one of the most impressive cold-weather dogs alive.
This mastiff-type dog handles frigid temps like a pro because:
Dense double coat insulates them from icy winds.
Developed to survive extreme temperatures
Sturdy build keeps them safe in harsh conditions
Independent thinkers (some might call them stubborn dogs)
These dogs are incredibly protective. One of the outstanding guarding companions. But they need an experienced owner and lots of space.
One thing is for sure. This dog walks outside in freezing temps like it is a normal Tuesday.
4. Samoyed
Fluffy. White. The Samoyed is basically the closest thing you will get to owning a smiling Arctic fox. These dogs were originally bred to herd reindeer, pull sleds, and keep their owners warm at night. Literally! By sleeping right beside them.
Their thick double coat is so insulated that snow rarely melts when it lands on them.
Sammies excel in frosty weather because:
Their thick double coat (one of the most insulated of all breeds)
Ability to stay warm without overheating in cold climates
Boundless energy and playful nature
History as hardworking sled pulling dogs
They are also super affectionate, social, and great with families. If you want a snow dog who smiles through winter storms, this is your dog.
Though, fair warning. The hair… does not stop.
5. Saint Bernard
Ah, yes… the legendary Saint Bernard.
These dogs and their descendants became famous for helping rescue travelers trapped in the Alps during avalanches, blizzards, and heavy snow conditions. We can easily give them the award for “best winter lifesaving dog”. And trust us, they would have a lot of trophies if this were a competition.
Saint Bernards are built for freezing temperatures because:
A dense double coat for insulation.
Massive size that retains heat
A patient nature and gentle temperament
A long history as avalanche rescue dogs
They were made to go through snowy terrains and extreme cold while helping people in trouble. Today, these large dogs are wonderful family companions that excel in cold weather and absolutely adore snow play.
But keep in mind. They drool like crazy, as per PDSA. Like… a surprising amount.
6. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is the brand ambassador of winter. Seriously!
These dogs are famous for their wolf-like appearance, incredible endurance, and ability to pull sleds across the Arctic. They were bred by Chucki people as working dogs meant to survive harsh winter weather, much like polar bears surviving freezing temperatures. Sometimes travelling dozens of miles per day.
Huskies excel in cold weather because:
A double coat acts like a built-in parka
Snowshoe-like paws for icy terrain
Haul heavy loads over long distances
High energy makes them great winter adventure partners
Many snow dog breeds get compared to Huskies, but none quite match their mix of stamina and personality. They are vocal, mischievous, and incredibly affectionate dogs. Perfect companionship for active families who love snowy adventures.
And yes, they will try to talk back to you.
7. Alaskan Malamute
Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute look the same, but if the Husky is the fast athlete, Malamutes are the powerlifters.
This breed was originally bred by the native Mahlemut people to survive Arctic life, pull heavy sleds, and haul supplies across snowy landscapes. These dogs are strong, dependable, and deeply loyal. Basically, winter warriors wrapped in a thick coat.
Malamutes stay good in frosty environments because:
Their dense double coat.
A sturdy build made for heavy loads.
An ability to handle extreme cold
Their history of working in snowy conditions
They resemble wolves more than most dogs, but they are big softies with affectionate personalities. Malamutes love winter hiking, sled pulling, and exploring snowy terrain.
One thing! They need LOTS of exercise. Without it… chaos!
Conclusion
Some dogs were MADE for snow.
These dog breeds that excel in frosty environments are winter-loving, snow-chasing, and cold-weather champions well-suited for icy climates and snowy conditions.
From the fluffy Samoyed to the Alaskan Malamute…
From the gentle giant Newfoundland to the hardworking Bernese Mountain Dog…
Each breed has generations of history and resilience in some of the coldest environments in the world.
If you live with low temperatures, heavy snow, or freezing weather, or you love winter adventures, these cold-weather dogs make the best companions and a snow buddy.
They need space, activity, and a whole lot of grooming.
But the love. The loyalty. The snowy adventures…
Totally worth it.
