Cold Weather Dogs 2023: These are the 10 breeds of adorable dog that thrive in chilly temperatures - including the loving Husky 🐶
A huge number of us decided to welcome new pups into our homes in the last couple of years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared and post-lockdown demand for four-legged friends remains high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One thing to take into consideration is that some dogs have been bred specifically to cope with – or even enjoy – living in a cold climate.
These hardy breeds will think nothing of long walks in snow and sub-zero temperatures, so if you have an ourdoorsy lifestyle they are the pups that should feature high up on your canine wish list.
Here are the 10 breeds of dog that thrive in cold conditions.
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1. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow's luxurious and thick coat makes them look like a friendly lion and makes them seemingly impervious to dropping temperatures. Originally bred to guard royal palaces in their native China, they are quite happy to spend the majority of their time outside. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
2. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is probably the first dog breen most of us think of when it comes to canines comfy in cold climates. Bred to pull slades over vast distances of arctic tundra, this is a dog that can cope with anything the weather can throw at them. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
3. Alaskan Malamute
They may look very similar to the Husky, but the Alaskan Malamute is a distinct breed - older, larger and stronger than their Siberian cousins. They may have been bred to pull sleds, but with the proper training they can also make for a loyal and loving family pet. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
4. Akita
The Akita was originally used to hunt animals in the frozen forests of their native Japan, so feel at home in the cold. They also make great guard dogs, although are not particularly suitable for families with young children due to their occasionally intolerant nature. Photo: Canva/Getty Images