When the mercury falls, a dog’s body kicks into overdrive to keep them warm.  There are a few dogs whose ancestry, coat, and biology make them particularly good at this–ideal breeds for frosty days.

Do you have one of these breeds?  How is your dog “made for the cold”?

Chow – The Chow’s thick, fluffy coat acts as a barrier to cold temperatures.

Great Pyrenees – With Shepherd roots for livestock protection and a heavy coat to resist the elements, these dogs have been invaluable to herders.

Husky – Generations of sled dog training far North of the Equator have primed this breed for cold weather.  In fact, Huskies were the primary dog used in the “diphtheria serum run” which later became the “Iditarod”.

Saint Bernard – Probably the most cliche’ cold weather dog (often pictured with its barrel of whiskey in the snow), these dogs are appropriately represented.  This breed has saved countless people lost or injured in the Swiss Alps.

Samoyed – The Samoyed is sturdy and covered with a thick, full coat.  The Samoyed has always been a popular choice for a sled dog, since they are able to pull over 1-1/2 times their weight.