It's snowy season! And while some dogs are eager to pounce through powdery drifts, others prefer the comfort of a cozy hearth. Different dog breeds have varying tolerances to cold weather. This is primarily due to their unique physical characteristics and genetic backgrounds. For example, Siberian Huskies have dense double coats that provide exceptional insulation against harsh winter conditions. Conversely, breeds with thinner coats or smaller body sizes lack this natural insulation. So, before you take your dog out on a winter walk with your new Crumps' Naturals Training Treats, you'll want to understand your dog's breed characteristics. Let's explore five dog breeds that thrive in winter wonderlands and five that might need a little extra warmth and care.
5 Dog Breeds That Love Winter
1. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky, with its thick double coat and striking blue eyes, is the quintessential snow-loving dog. Bred to haul sleds across frozen terrain, these dogs thrive in cold climates. Their energy levels are high, making them ideal companions for winter sports enthusiasts. Popular as family pets due to their gentle demeanor, Huskies respond well to training, especially when motivated by treats like Crumps' Naturals Duck Mini Trainers. These hypoallergenic low-calorie, high-protein morsels are perfect for rewarding their hardworking spirit.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are known for their incredible strength and endurance and these hard-working dogs love cold weather! Their dense coat keeps them insulated during snow-filled adventures. Friendly and playful, they make great pets for active families.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
With origins in the snowy Swiss Alps, Bernese Mountain Dogs are built for snowy strolls. Their long, thick fur provides warmth and gives them a majestic appearance. Gentle giants by nature, they are fantastic family pets. Training sessions can be delightful when using Crumps' Naturals Semi Moist Chicken Mini Trainers, perfect for their moderate to high energy needs.
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are water dogs that thrive in cold climates! This breed has a water-resistant double coat. They are known for their gentle disposition, making them excellent companions for children.
5. Saint Bernard
Hollywood loves featuring big, slobbery Saint Bernards (remember Beethoven?)! These dogs first became famous for their role as alpine rescue dogs. Their big bodies are built to handle cold weather with ease. Their massive size and gentle nature make them lovable giants great for families.
5 Breeds That Don't Love Winter
Now that we've told you about the dogs that love winter, how about the ones that don't? Breeds with short or thin coats lack the necessary insulation to retain body heat. These dogs -- like chihuahua and greyhounds -- are prone to hypothermia and frostbite. Small breeds and dogs with low body fat also lose heat more quickly than larger, well-insulated breeds. But those are not the only dogs you need to look out for in winter. Senior dogs, puppies, and those with medical conditions like arthritis or heart disease may also struggle in the cold, as lower temperatures can exacerbate joint pain and cause extra stress on their heart (side note: these pets can benefit from our Chicken Collagen Jerky, which promotes joint health). Let's take a look at 5 dog breeds that do not love winter:
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas might be full of spunk, but their small size and short coats make them sensitive to the cold. These loyal companions need extra care in winter, often requiring sweaters and indoor playtimes. Despite their size, they can be food-driven learners, making Crumps' Naturals Freeze-Dried Liver Mini Trainers a go-to for effective training.
2. Greyhound
With sleek bodies and minimal body fat, Greyhounds are quick to feel the cold. Often called "cuddle monsters," they prefer warmth and comfort to snowy or cold landscapes. Unlike breeds with dense undercoats, Greyhounds lack the natural protection needed to withstand cold conditions for extended periods, so you'll want to mostly keep them indoors in winter. Their circulatory system is also designed for high-speed running rather than conserving heat, meaning they lose body warmth quickly.
3. Dachshund
Dachshunds are charming with their long bodies and short legs, but these pups are not big fans of the cold. Their genetic history as burrowers means they’re better suited to cozy nooks than frosty fields.
4. Italian Greyhound
These delicate canines require protection from the elements, as their thin coats do little against winter’s chill. They excel as affectionate lap dogs rather than winter adventurers.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies, with their fun spirit and portable size, have long, fine coats that aren’t sufficient alone for cold protection. Wrapping them in warmth while offering stimulating play indoors is key in wintertime. One way to entertain them indoors is by teaching them tricks and giving them "work" to do with the help of Crumps' Naturals Semi Moist Lamb Mini Trainers.
Making the Most of Winter with Your Dog
No matter what your dog's preference is for winter weather, ensuring they are comfortable and engaged is essential to their happiness. Whether your pup is a winter warrior or a cozy companion, Crumps' Naturals offers a range of treats that cater to every training need or taste preference. From Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Mini Trainers for high-energy winter runs to Semi Moist options that suit indoor learners or allergy-sensitive pets, these are some of the best pet treats to make any dog's winter a little more special.
