The cold winter months, especially the chilly days of December, are typically the coldest time of the year. According to weather forecasts, a strong cold front will soon affect most parts of the USA, bringing widespread rain and snow.
Everyone, make sure to keep warm.
However, many dogs are not as afraid of the cold.
Especially many northern breeds, whose true “prime time” is winter!
Today, let’s take a look at those dogs that are particularly resistant to the cold!
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Alaskan Malamute
When talking about cold resistance, the first breed that often comes to mind is the sled dog. As the leader of the “sled dog trio,” the Alaskan Malamute is probably the strongest and most cold-resistant dog of the group.
They were bred by the Inuit tribes of Alaska for hundreds of years. These dogs are capable of pulling heavy sleds over long distances in freezing temperatures.
As adults, they become more composed, usually not as energetic as Huskies or Samoyeds. But their temperament is very gentle, and they are known worldwide as one of the “non-aggressive breeds.” They are loving towards everyone and make great family and nanny dogs.
However, if a thief enters your home, they might even shake hands with them, so they are not the best choice for guard dogs.
Greenland Dog
Although not very well-known, the Greenland Dog is one of the oldest breeds in the sled dog family. A genetic study conducted in 2020 revealed that the Greenland Dog is genetically closer to the remains of dogs found in Zhokhov, which date back 9,500 years. This suggests that they have a continuous genetic history of at least 10,000 years.
Scientists have also found that these dogs share some ancestral ties with the Pleistocene-era Tamil wolf, making them something of a “living fossil.”
The Greenland Dog’s body is not very large, but they are incredibly strong and efficient workers, able to carry heavy loads over long distances on their own without needing a team. To preserve their traditional lifestyle, Greenland has implemented strict regulations, and anyone wanting to own a Greenland Dog must join the local sled dog association.
Finnish Lapphund
The Finnish Lapphund is another breed from the Arctic Circle.
While other dogs herd sheep, the Lapphund helps herd reindeer, guiding herds across the Arctic tundra of Lapland to the appropriate pastures. Although they are not very large, they have well-developed muscles and a thick, coarse double coat that allows them to work for long hours in extreme environments.
They are very friendly towards their family members, usually obedient, and quite understanding. But as a herding dog, they tend to be very cautious around strangers and are excellent at barking, making them outstanding guard dogs. However, when kept in a city, they need extensive socialization and training; otherwise, they might become a nuisance or get into trouble.
Newfoundland Dog
Famous for their water rescue skills, Newfoundland Dogs were originally bred to help Canadian fishermen drag fishing nets and carry cargo in the cold waters of the North Atlantic.
Their thick coats help provide insulation, and even if the outer layer gets wet, the inner layer remains dry for some time, keeping them warm. As for land blizzards, they are well-prepared to handle them!
In cold regions, some Newfoundland Dogs are trained as land rescue dogs. They are emotionally stable, not prone to mood swings, and are relatively easy to train. Not only are they reliable working dogs, but they also make adorable family pets.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog, native to the Caucasus Mountains and steppes of southern Russia, is large and has thick, full fur that makes it look like a slightly smaller bear.
They are extremely cold-resistant. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union sent them to East Germany as border guard dogs. They performed excellently in harsh conditions, and as a massive, imposing dog, people tended to give them space out of awe.
If anyone tries to mess with them, the Caucasian Shepherd’s bite force of 550-700 PSI is not to be underestimated. They are excellent guard dogs with a strong territorial instinct and a fearless nature, making them the ultimate fighters!
Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog, which once conquered Putin’s heart, has grown from a small puppy into a formidable guardian.
As a large breed that is very popular in Russia, cold resistance is a given, but what really makes them attractive is their strong guarding instincts. They are sometimes called “Volkodav,” meaning “Wolf Crusher,” which gives you an idea of their strength and courage.
Despite their intimidating size, they are usually calm and perceptive, rarely making rash decisions. As the most reliable “guardians,” they understand that chasing an “escapee” might expose their vulnerable family members to danger, so they conserve their energy for true threats.
Unlike other large “cuddly” dogs, most Central Asian Shepherds seem to know their size and don’t push their owners around. They are gentle and affectionate, often expressing their love in a soft and careful manner.
Landseer
The Landseer is a distinguished, fluffy gentleman of a dog.
Originating from Germany, though not from particularly noble roots, it became a favorite of European royalty. Russian Tsar Alexander II, King Edward VII of England, and Empress Elizabeth of Austria (Princess Sisi) all adored this breed.
The Landseer shares bloodlines with the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees, making them not only large and well-furred but also cold-resistant. Their appearance resembles the lion on the Leonberg crest, with male dogs having a lion-like mane around their neck and chest, paired with a black face mask that highlights their kind brown eyes, giving them a majestic look.
Despite their imposing appearance, the Landseer has a gentle and affectionate nature. They are natural protectors and helpers and remain calm and composed in all situations. In the past, they pulled artillery and rescued the wounded on battlefields. Today, they can be trained as excellent service dogs.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Iceland may be harsh and sparsely populated, but it is home to the strong and cute Icelandic Sheepdog.
It is Iceland’s only native dog breed, also known as the Freyja Dog, and is a versatile herding dog. Legend has it that Vikings brought these dogs to Iceland, and for centuries, they’ve worked alongside locals in herding.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is highly cold-resistant and can adapt to tough environments and rough terrains, making them excellent survival dogs. With their thick fur, long face, pointy ears, and fluffy tails, they look like cute little foxes.
Although not very large, they are workaholics with strong personalities, which makes them less suited for city living in a regular family home. However, once trained, they can make joyful and friendly companion dogs, perfect for suburban homes with a backyard. They are not only adorable but also excellent at guarding the home.
Dutch Smoushond
The Dutch Smoushond, also known as the rough-haired Brussels Griffon or “fat Pomeranian,” is a small breed with thick, fluffy fur. They are smart, quick, and cheerful, with a unique white eye ring that gives them a regal appearance.
They are extremely popular in Europe, so much so that both Germans and Dutch claim the breed as their own, leading to fierce debates over their origin.
Although they are not as cold-resistant as the Arctic breeds, they are still relatively hardy compared to humans. They love winter more than summer and can run happily in the snow for a while. However, if you’re planning to take them skiing or engage in long snow activities, make sure to keep them warm and avoid overexertion.
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