10 Best Dog Breeds for Cold Weather Adventures & Travel

Patrick MacFarland Patrick MacFarland · Updated May 1, 2025
A husky sleeps curled up in a snow nest, surrounded by snow-covered trees under a clear blue sky, much like how a Samoyed would find comfort in cold weather.

Traveling and exploring the outdoors with your dog can be a lot of fun, but not every breed is suited for cold weather. Choosing the right dog breed for your winter adventures makes a big difference in your pet’s comfort and overall experience.

When you understand which dogs are built for chilly climates, you can plan safer and more enjoyable trips. This guide will help you find breeds that can handle cold temperatures and make great travel companions.

1. Siberian Husky

If you want a dog that does well in cold weather, the Siberian Husky is a good choice. This breed was developed to work in very cold climates, pulling sleds across snow and ice.

  • Siberian Huskies have a thick double coat that keeps them warm even when temperatures drop. Their fur helps block out the wind and snow.
  • They are known for being energetic and love outdoor activities. 
  • If you enjoy hiking, running, or traveling in the winter, a Siberian Husky can keep up with you.

A Siberian Husky, equipped with essential gear for cold climates, trots through a snowy forest. Trees stand tall in the background as snow gently falls, and the dog appears alert and energetic.

2. Alaskan Malamute

If you want a dog that handles the cold with ease, the Alaskan Malamute stands out. This breed was originally bred for tough work like hauling heavy loads and running long distances in snowy places. Its history is closely tied to arctic sled dogs.

  • Your Alaskan Malamute will have a dense, double coat. The outer layer is rough, while the undercoat is thick and woolly. 
  • This coat helps the dog stay warm even in extremely cold conditions. The coat also resists moisture and protects against wind.
  • Malamutes are known for their strength and endurance. If you like winter sports or adventures, they can keep up with activities like hiking, sledding, and running in icy environments.
  • You should know that Malamutes do best in cold climates. Their heavy fur and strong build make them less comfortable in hot weather. 

Two Siberian Huskies pull a sled through a snowy landscape, with majestic mountains in the background, showcasing the key differences in speed and agility compared to their larger cousin, the Alaskan Malamute.

3. Bernese Mountain Dog

If you want a companion for snowy paths and cold conditions, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a strong choice. This breed was originally used on farms in Switzerland, so it is comfortable in chilly weather.

  • Bernese Mountain Dogs have thick, double-layered coats that protect them from the cold. Their fur sheds water and helps block wind, making them well suited to winter activities.
  • These dogs enjoy being outside and have a gentle nature. They like to spend time with people and need regular exercise, which fits well with travel and outdoor adventures.
  • You should know that Bernese Mountain Dogs are large and require space to move. 
  • Their size and strength make them a sturdy partner if you plan hiking or other activities in snow or cold climates.

A Bernese Mountain Dog with a blue collar sits on grass between a large blue bowl and a silver bowl, with blurred lights twinkling in the outdoor living space.

4. Saint Bernard

If you want a strong and reliable companion for cold climates, the Saint Bernard is a good choice. This breed is known for its large size and thick double coat, which help keep it warm in harsh winter weather.

  • Saint Bernards were originally bred for rescue work in the snowy Alps. Their powerful build and wide paws make it easy for them to move through deep snow.
  • You will notice that these dogs often enjoy being outdoors, as their coat protects them from freezing temperatures. 
  • If you travel to snowy areas, a Saint Bernard is comfortable and confident outside, even in freezing conditions, because they are built to handle the cold.

A woman kneels on the grass using gentle methods to feed a treat to a large Saint Bernard dog. The dog, in the midst of its training, wears a friendly expression.

5. Samoyed

If you want a dog for snowy adventures, the Samoyed is a smart choice. These dogs were bred for herding reindeer and pulling sleds in very cold climates. 

  • Their thick, double-layer coat keeps them warm even in freezing weather.
  • A Samoyed’s white fur is not just beautiful—it’s practical too. It helps this breed stay comfortable when temperatures drop. 
  • Because of their background, Samoyeds are known for being both powerful and able to work for long hours in the winter.

A fluffy white Samoyed stands on a snowy field with trees in the background, perfectly suited for cold weather.

6. Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a strong and loyal dog breed from Japan. This breed has a thick double coat that helps it handle cold temperatures. You can count on your Akita Inu to enjoy being outdoors when the weather is chilly.

  • Originally bred for hunting in snowy regions, Akitas have the stamina and strength needed for winter adventures. 
  • Their dense fur keeps them warm, and their large paws help them walk on snow.
  • If you are planning cold weather travel, the Akita Inu adapts well to different climates. The breed loves daily walks and does best with regular exercise, even in the snow.

A black and white husky, one of the best dog breeds for cold weather, stands on snow with a backdrop of snow-covered mountain peaks under a blue sky.

7. Tibetan Mastiff

If you want a dog that can handle cold weather, the Tibetan Mastiff is a strong choice. This breed comes from the Himalayas, where it was used to guard livestock in freezing temperatures.

  • The Tibetan Mastiff has a thick double coat that helps it stay warm even when it’s very cold. 
  • Its long, dense fur provides extra protection against snow and wind.
  • These dogs are known for being independent and protective and often form strong bonds with their families and are loyal companions. 
  • Their heavy coat and natural instincts help them adapt to snowy environments.

Two large, fluffy Tibetan Mastiffs with thick fur sit side by side on a grassy field, surrounded by trees in the background.

8. Keeshond

If you want a friendly, reliable companion for winter trips, the Keeshond is a strong choice. This breed has a thick, double-layered coat that helps protect them from the cold. 

  • The fur is soft underneath and longer on top, which keeps them warm during chilly adventures.
  • They are not too large for travel, making them good for car rides or staying in cabins. 
  • Keeshonds are loyal and often called “velcro dogs” because they like to stay close to you. This makes them great for camping or hiking, as they’re less likely to wander off on their own.

Fluffy, gray dog with curled tail playing in the snow, bending forward with front legs on the ground. 

9. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is known for its thick, white double coat and fluffy tail. This cozy fur helps protect against cold weather, making the breed a good choice for winter adventures.

  • The American Eskimo Dog is also alert and agile, which is helpful when hiking or exploring snowy areas.
  • American Eskimo Dogs are smart, love to please, and learn quickly. This makes them easy to train for travel or new outdoor activities.
  • Many experts agree that, because of their thick undercoat, American Eskimo Dogs do not usually need special winter gear for their bodies. 

Two fluffy American Eskimo dogs sit side by side on the grass, facing the camera, with trees in the blurred background.

10. Anatolian Shepherd

If you want a dog that can handle cold weather, the Anatolian Shepherd is a strong choice. This breed comes from Turkey, where winters can be harsh. Their thick double coat helps keep them warm in low temperatures.

  • The Anatolian Shepherd is known for being rugged and tough. 
  • These dogs are built for the outdoors and can handle long treks even in challenging conditions.
  • Their stamina makes them a good companion for winter hikes or snowy adventures.
  • An Anatolian Shepherd can act as a reliable guard and will watch over your group or campsite. If you plan to explore remote or wild areas, this can be especially helpful.

Large anatolian shepherd with a black face and floppy ears lying on grass, framed by trees in the blurred background.

Key Characteristics of Cold-Weather Breeds

Cold-weather dog breeds have special traits that help them thrive in cold, snowy places. These dogs are built for low temperatures, often with features that help them stay warm and safe outdoors.

Insulating Fur and Double Coats

Many cold-weather dog breeds have a thick, double-layered coat. The outer layer repels snow and water, while the inner layer acts like insulation and traps body heat. Breeds such as the Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, and Samoyed have these coats, letting them spend hours in freezing temperatures without discomfort.

Their fur often grows longer and denser as the weather gets colder. Some of these dogs even have tufted paws and bushy tails that protect sensitive areas. For example, a Norwegian Elkhound’s coat can keep it warm even during harsh Scandinavian winters. The double coat is one of the main reasons these breeds stay comfortable outdoors, even while playing or working in snow. Learn more about how double coats work from this guide on cold weather dog breeds.

Adaptability to Harsh Conditions

Cold-weather breeds are not just about fur—they also handle cold environments with unique behavior and physical traits. These dogs often have strong bodies and lots of energy, which helps them move through deep snow and rough terrain. They can adjust easily to colder climates and tend to have hearty appetites to support their activity levels when it’s cold out.

Some breeds are even known for their ability to carry loads or pull sleds, which is key for winter travel. Their ears are often smaller or tightly folded, which helps prevent frostbite. Many also show natural instincts to dig, burrow, or huddle for warmth, which keeps them safe when temperatures drop. See more examples in this list of best pups for winter adventures.

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