Winter can transform the world into a magical wonderland, especially if you have a dog that loves the snow. Some dog breeds seem to be born for the snowy season, with a boundless enthusiasm for frolicking in the white stuff. These dogs turn snow-covered backyards into their personal playgrounds, diving into drifts, chasing snowflakes, and making you wonder if they’re part polar bear. If you’re a snow lover looking for a canine companion that shares your winter passion, you’re in luck. Here are the top 12 dog breeds that adore playing in the snow, complete with their quirky habits and endearing personalities. From the majestic Malamute to the playful Samoyed, these dogs are guaranteed to warm your heart, even on the coldest days.
12. American Eskimo Dog
Despite its name, the American Eskimo Dog isn’t from Alaska but its love for snow is undeniable. These fluffy white dogs look like they were designed for winter, with a thick coat that keeps them warm in the coldest conditions. One of their quirks is their love for performing tricks—American Eskimos are known for their agility and intelligence, often showing off their skills with a wagging tail and a big smile. They also have a playful nature and enjoy romping around in the snow, making snow angels with their bodies and chasing after snowballs like it’s their life’s mission.
11. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff, with its majestic and imposing presence, is a breed that thrives in cold climates. These dogs have a dense double coat that keeps them warm and comfortable in snowy conditions. One of their quirks is their nocturnal nature—they often patrol their territory at night, making them excellent watchdogs. When it comes to snow, Tibetan Mastiffs are in their element. They love to plow through snowdrifts, using their powerful bodies to clear paths and create their own snowy trails. Despite their serious demeanor, they have a playful side that comes out in full force when they’re in the snow.
10. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands, affectionately known as “Newfies,” are giant, gentle dogs with a love for water and snow. Their thick, water-resistant coat makes them well-suited for cold weather, and they have a knack for turning snowy landscapes into their playground. One of their quirks is their nanny-like behavior—Newfies are incredibly gentle and protective, often looking after children and smaller pets. In the snow, they transform into playful giants, bounding through drifts and sometimes even rescuing their human friends from snowbanks. Their sheer size and enthusiasm make them a sight to behold in winter wonderlands.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs, with their tri-colored coats and friendly faces, are natural snow lovers. These dogs were originally bred in the Swiss Alps, so they come with a built-in love for cold weather and snow-covered landscapes. One of their quirks is their cart-pulling heritage—Berners are strong and sturdy, often enjoying activities that involve pulling or carrying. In the snow, they love to roll around, dig tunnels, and chase after snowflakes. Their cheerful disposition and playful nature make them excellent companions for winter adventures.
8. Norwegian Elkhound
Norwegian Elkhounds are sturdy, wolf-like dogs with a love for cold weather and snow. These dogs were bred for hunting in harsh climates, so they have a natural affinity for winter play. One of their quirks is their independent nature—Elkhounds are known for their strong-willed personalities, often making their own decisions during playtime. In the snow, they love to explore, dig, and chase after anything that moves. Their boundless energy and curiosity make them excellent companions for snowy adventures.
7. Chow Chow
Chow Chows, with their lion-like manes and stoic expressions, are surprisingly playful when it comes to snow. These dogs have a thick double coat that keeps them warm and comfortable in cold weather. One of their quirks is their independent nature—Chows often act like they are above it all, but give them a snowy day and they become puppies again. They love to romp through snowdrifts, dig holes, and sometimes just sit and enjoy the winter landscape. Despite their aloof demeanor, Chows have a playful side that comes out in full force when the snow starts to fall.
6. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards, famous for their roles as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, are natural snow lovers. These giant, gentle dogs have a thick coat that keeps them warm in the coldest conditions, and their size and strength make them excellent in snowy terrain. One of their quirks is their drooling—Saint Bernards are known for their slobbery kisses, which can be quite refreshing in the cold! In the snow, they love to plow through drifts, often creating paths for smaller dogs and humans to follow. Their playful and friendly nature makes them wonderful companions for winter adventures.
5. Keeshond
Keeshonden, with their fluffy coats and bright eyes, are like little snow machines. These dogs have a thick double coat that keeps them warm and dry in snowy conditions. One of their quirks is their “smiling” faces—Keeshonden often look like they’re grinning, especially when they’re playing in the snow. They love to dig, roll around, and make snow tunnels, turning your yard into a winter wonderland. Their playful nature and cheerful disposition make them a joy to have around during the snowy season.
4. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs, with their majestic white coats and calm demeanor, are natural snow lovers. These dogs were bred to guard livestock in the mountains, so they come with a built-in love for cold weather and snowy landscapes. One of their quirks is their night patrols—Great Pyrenees often stay up at night, watching over their territory and ensuring everything is safe. In the snow, they love to roll around, dig holes, and sometimes just lounge in the cold. Their gentle and protective nature makes them excellent companions for snowy adventures.
3. Finnish Lapphund
Finnish Lapphunds, with their thick fur and bright eyes, are perfectly designed for snowy play. These dogs have a dense double coat that keeps them warm and cozy in cold weather. One of their quirks is their vocal nature—Finnish Lapphunds love to “talk” to their owners with a variety of barks, howls, and other sounds. In the snow, they transform into playful pups, running through drifts, chasing snowflakes, and digging tunnels. Their cheerful and energetic nature makes them perfect companions for winter fun.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, majestic dogs that thrive in cold, snowy conditions. These dogs were bred for sledding and have the strength and stamina to handle long winters. One of their quirks is their love for digging—Malamutes will often dig holes in the snow to create cool spots to rest. They also have a playful side and enjoy romping through snowdrifts, chasing after snowballs, and sometimes even pulling kids on sleds. Their friendly and energetic nature makes them wonderful companions for snowy adventures.
1. Samoyed
Samoyeds, with their fluffy white coats and perpetual smiles, are the ultimate snow-loving dogs. These dogs were bred for herding and pulling sleds in Siberia, so they come with a natural affinity for cold weather and snow. One of their quirks is their “Sammy smile”—these dogs always look like they’re grinning, which only adds to their charm. In the snow, Samoyeds are in their element. They love to run, dig, roll around, and generally turn any snowy day into a party. Their playful and friendly nature makes them the perfect companions for anyone who loves winter as much as they do.
In conclusion, these 12 dog breeds bring joy and excitement to snowy days with their playful antics and boundless energy. Whether it’s the American Eskimo Dog performing tricks, the Tibetan Mastiff patrolling at night, or the Samoyed grinning from ear to ear, each of these dogs has a special way of making winter even more magical. So, if you’re looking for a furry friend to share your love of snow, consider one of these breeds—you won’t be disappointed!
Toledo, United States.
