15 Big Dog Breeds Well-Suited for Cold Climates

Dogs are quite adaptable to temperature fluctuations. However, some dogs are better equipped for handling cold weather.

Dogs that handle low temperatures have long, double coats for added protection and usually smaller ears. Some of them even come from cold regions.

In this article, we will review 15 large dog breeds that tolerate cold weather. Let’s begin.

1. Siberian Husky

The Husky is a sled dog with unmatched endurance and the ability to work hard in harsh environments. This born-pack dog has a compact build and striking look. The ancestors of the breed were companion dogs to the Chukchi people living in northeastern Asia.

Personality Traits: Outgoing, Loyal, Mischievous

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 12-14 years

2. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, Spitz-type dog originally used as an arctic sled dog. It is believed that the Malamute is a direct descendant of domesticated wolf dogs. The dog is a true example of a pack animal and is utterly loyal to its family members.

Personality Traits: Affectionate, Playful, Loyal

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-14 years

3. American Akita

The American Akita is a dignified dog with a thick, double coat and small, erect ears. The breed’s history is long and can be traced back to ancient Japan. It was used as a hunting dog and a royal guard dog. Today, American Akitas make great companions but can be a handful at training.

Personality Traits: Loyal, Courageous, Dignified

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-14 years

4. Samoyed

The Samoyed was developed in Siberia, and its history is connected with the nomadic Samoyedic people. Samoyeds have a smiling face. However, this feature has a purpose - it prevents the dog from drooling, as drool will quickly turn into an icicle in the freezing temperatures of the dog’s native regions.

Personality Traits: Adaptable, Friendly, Gentle

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 12-14 years

5. Saint Bernard

Do not be fooled by the intimidating, massive size - Saint Bernard is often called the “nanny dog” because of its gentle nature and patience with children. The breed was developed by a monk to aid and rescue pilgrims going through the snowy passes of the Alps.

Personality Traits: Charming, Playful, Inquisitive

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 8-10 years

6. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Popularly known as Swissies, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs got their name from two factors - their country of origin and the fact they are greater than most dogs and even a medium-sized human. The breed descended from war dogs brought to Switzerland by Julius Cezar.

Personality Traits: Dependable, Faithful, Family-Oriented

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 8-11 years

7. Bernese Mountain Dog

The tri-colored coat and dark eyes are the hallmarks of the Bernese Mountain dog. Developed in Switzerland, this dog was used as a multitasker on farms and pastures. The breed’s ancestors were brought to Switzerland by Roman invaders more than 2000 years ago.

Personality Traits: Strong, Good-Natured, Calm

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 7-10 years

8. Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is an ancient breed and one of the most expensive dogs in the world. Because of the secluded location of Tibet, we do not know much about the history of the breed. However, it is believed that the Tibetan Mastiff is the ancestor of modern Mastiff-type dogs.

Personality Traits: Independent, Intelligent, Reserved

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-12 years

9. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is an imposing-looking breed with a thick and coarse coat and a warm facial expression. According to the breed standard, the hallmark of the Newfie is its sweet temper. Because of their strength and swimming skills, this dog makes excellent water rescuer.

Personality Traits: Sweet, Devoted, Patient

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 9-10 years

10. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees was created with one purpose - to protect sheep from wolves and sheep-stealing wild animals on the snowy Pyrenees mountaintops. It has a majestic appearance and a thick, white coat. The origins of the breed can be traced back to the Bronze Age.

Personality Traits: Calm, Patient, Smart

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-12 years

11. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a white and thick-coated dog with a robust build and intimidating appearance. Originally it was used as a guardian and a royal companion. It is believed that the breed draws its roots back to ancient Tibet and Turkey. Kuvasz in Turkish means “armed guard of the nobility.”

Personality Traits: Sweet, Loyal, Fearless

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-12 years

12. Norwegian Elkhound

The name is self-explanatory - this breed originates from Norway, and initially, it was used for hunting elk. The Norwegian Elkhound is one of Europe’s oldest dog breeds. Members of the breed are even depicted in Norse mythology and have sailed with the Vikings.

Personality Traits: Dependable, Friendly, Confident

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 12-15 years

13. Komondor

The Komondor is a Hungarian breed and probably one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. The hallmark of the breed is the coat, or better said the white cords. This uniquely looking dog was developed to play the role of a flock guardian. Now, the Komondor is an excellent companion and prize-winning show dog.

Personality Traits: Brave, Loyal, Dignified

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 10-12 years

14. Leonberger

Hailing from Germany, the Leonberger is a calm and patient dog with a lush coat and a dignified demeanor. Its coat is waterproof, and the tail is bushy. The main feature of the breed is the lion-like mane in males. Because of its strength, it was used for pulling carts, and due to its looks, it has also served as a companion to royalty.

Personality Traits: Playful, Friendly, Gentle

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 7 years

15. German Shepherd

The muscular and agile German Shepherd is an all-purpose working dog. Due to its character and appearance, this dog has long been associated with royalty. Today, modern German Shepherds make excellent companion dogs and skilled service dogs. One of the most famous German Shepherds is Rin Tin Tin.

Personality Traits: Confident, Smart, Courageous

Cold Tolerance: High

Average Lifespan: 7-10 years

Conclusion

These breeds are excellent at handling cold weather. They are resilient, long or dense-haired, and with small ears that do not radiate internal heat. Most of them are working breeds from cold parts of the world.

However, just because they tolerate cold weather does not mean they are fully resistant. If living outdoors, it is highly recommended to provide them with a dog house, especially during the winter months.