Dog Breeds That Love the Snow
While some dogs have to be bribed to step out in the snow, there are other pups out there that can’t get enough of it. For many canine companions actually, snowy weather is the best time of the year for them. Here are some dog breeds that love to see snowflakes falling from the sky.
Old English Sheepdog
Known for their shaggy coats, Old English Sheepdogs are more than happy to be in a winter wonderland of snow. During the warmer seasons, they tend to get overheated pretty quickly, so cold snowy weather is where they thrive. If you own an Old English Sheepdog, then you probably know how much time you have to dedicate to grooming them so that their coat doesn’t get matted. After these pups come in from the snow, don’t forget to give them a proper wipe down with a towel; otherwise, you’ll end up with puddles all-around your house.
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiffs are from Tibet, as the name reveals, where the weather is extremely frigid. Because of this background, these canines have thick coats made to endure freezing temperatures. Just like Old English Sheepdogs, though, the warmer seasons are not friendly to the Tibetan Mastiff. So, not only can these four-legged friends handle most winter walks you take them on, they’re happier during this time too!
Siberian Husky
To no surprise, the Siberian Husky comes from Siberia. There, they were once bred to be used as snow dogs for transportation as well as family friends that would help keep you warm in your bed. Siberian Huskies are still used for transportation purposes today, as well as sledding competitions! Due to their thick coats and close relation to their wolf ancestors, these pups are made perfect for snowy weather.
Samoyed
The Samoyed is also from Siberia. They helped keep families warm there, haul sleds, herd reindeer, and made great hunting companions. Due to their thick fur and double coat, these pups are also known to shed quite often and don’t enjoy warm weather very much. After it snows, you might have a difficult time getting your Samoyed back inside since their white fur blends in so well with the snow, it can be hard to spot them!
Saint Bernard
You might have seen a few Saint Bernard’s depicted as cartoons, tracking down lost travelers in the snow with a kit on their neck filled with supplies to fight the cold. This portrayal also isn’t too far off since these pups were bred to help find travelers near Switzerland’s Hospice Saint Bernard. These canines were, of course, very good at their jobs as well due to their thick frame and ability to find paths to keep them on course. So, not only will your Saint Bernard be thrilled to go on a walk in a blizzard, they’ll help you find your way back to the sidewalk if you lose track of it too.
Shetland Sheepdog
From the Shetland Islands just below the Arctic Circle, the Shetland Sheepdog was bred to help farmers with herding animals as well as keeping troublesome birds and sheep out of their gardens. Their double coat casts out dirt and water, so after a long day in snow and slush, they might actually come out a bit cleaner than you’d expect. The winter weather most definitely reminds Shetland Sheepdogs of their fond memories up north, so they’re more than happy for a bit of snow.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
It’s believed that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a descendent of Vallhunds (Swedish cattle dogs brought to Wales by the Vikings). These little pups have a double coat, with a thick, warm undercoat and a longer topcoat. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known to shed consistently throughout the year, but especially when the weather begins to change. These furry friends aren’t just made for dashing through the snow; they love it too!
Some dogs hate the snow, while others were bred for it and love it. No matter what kind of dog you have, though, always make sure you’re taking the proper cold weather safety precautions to keep Fido safe and happy in the snow.