Month: October 2023

Bo Bo / Stocksy
One of the joys of having a dog is sinking your hands into their fluff, and it’s okay to admit that. Of course, when looking to adopt a dog, you should consider temperament, size, exercise needs, and more — but why not consider how furry they are, too?

Studies show petting a dog can help lower blood pressure, and who’s not to say it’s not all about that fluff? Their soft fur is practically begging for us to touch it. And let’s be real, that fluffy dog cuteness is off the charts. If you’re concerned about shedding, believe it or not, some breeds actually have a hair-like coat that won’t leave you covered in fur (and they might even be more hypoallergenic).

Below are some of the fluffiest dog breeds, big and small, for people with a deep passion for adorableness and a lot of dedication to regularly brushing another sentient being.

Small Fluffy Dog Breeds

Pomeranian

A Pomeranian‘s face looks like two dots and a semi-circle hot glued onto a puffball. They have tiny teddy bear ears and a tail that curls up on their back, making them appear even rounder. Descended from the German Spitz, this eight-pound dog has a reputation for being feisty and playful; like many little dogs, they can be quite vocal. They are quite delicate under all that delightful fluff, which means Pomeranians may not be best for households with small children who might give them too many squeezes. Because who can resist squeezing a dog so cute? Only a mature adult. Barely.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise was bred to be a performer, and they still love the spotlight. This fluffy dog will be a huge asset if you dream of running away and joining the circus one day. The Bichon Frise is playful and loves hanging out with you, cuddling, or romping through the park. They grow a long, fluffy white coat that requires regular brushing and grooming and is often styled in a big moon shape around their faces. Beware, though: The Bichon Frise does not love being left alone, and though they are considered fairly quiet for a small dog, they will get rowdy if neglected. They also have a reputation for being difficult to housebreak. Forewarned is forearmed.

Coton De Tulear

“Coton” means cotton in French, which is a pretty accurate description of the Coton de Tuléar. These dogs have puffy white coats and need regular bathing to stay pristine and stink-free. Legend has it that this fluffy dog breed originates from a group of dogs who swam to the shore of Madagascar after a shipwreck, so you know they’re tough as heck. They can be good guard dogs but otherwise tend to be on the quiet side as long as they get companionship and moderate exercise.

Pekingese

The Pekingese looks like a sentient mop (in a good way!). Maybe that was one of their duties when, long ago, this fluffy 14-pound dog was popular in the Chinese Imperial Court. Their gorgeous long coats flow around them, parting over their flat sweet faces. These small dogs are wonderful house pets and love companionship, so don’t leave them alone too long. They need a lot of regular brushing, and they can be prone to hereditary issues, so keep them up to date on their vet check-ups.

Pomsky

A Pomsky is a mixed-breed dog who is half Pomeranian and half Siberian Husky — but all fluff. A mixed breed pooch’s temperament will always depend on what dominant traits they inherit, but Pomskies tend to be shaped like their Pomeranian parent and have the markings and coloration of their Husky parent — and sometimes that parent’s stubborn, independent mindset as well. Pomskies are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs who need a whole lot of exercise. Ancestrally, they remember dragging sleds through the tundra, even if size-wise, they can’t pull much more than a cardboard box.

American Eskimo

The American Eskimo dog is considered an “ancient breed” because of their relatively recent connection to wolves. They can be different sizes, but all have flowing white fur. This fluffy breed has a thick, double coat that needs regular brushing to prevent matting. They are very striking, with almost fox-like faces and beautiful plumed tails over their backs. They make alert watchdogs, have a lot of energy, and make great companions to families with kids or other pets when socialized early.

Schipperke

The Schipperke is a fox-like dog with a thick, solid black, and water-resistant coat. These dogs are independent thinkers, so obedience training might be necessary to keep peace in your shared household (for them, not you). These fluffy pups are quite loyal and are known for being protective and barking at potential threats, so be sure to carefully teach them what constitutes a threat for the sake of your neighbors.

Havanese

Native to Cuba, Havanese are lap-dogs with wavy silk coats that frame their friendly, open faces like a lion’s mane. On top of all that majesty are some floppy ears. You can style that amazing coat long or short, depending on how regularly you want to groom them. Havanese are known as great therapy dogs because of their inexhaustible need for human attention, the downside of which is that they can get very loud and even destructive if you leave them alone too long. If you live a lifestyle that welcomes dogs everywhere, they’re the perfect companion.

Bolognese

The Bolognese dog is from Bologna, Italy, and they share origins with the Maltese, Havanese, and Bichon Frise — and like them all, they are white dogs with fluffy coats. They’re quite small, typically weighing between five to 12 pounds and standing between 9 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. They are bright, easy to train, and relatively low-maintenance regarding exercise needs. Because of their gentle temperament and general tininess, Bolognese dogs are great pets for seniors or families with children, especially if you’re all crammed into an apartment.

Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” was originally bred as a herding dog in Scotland, and, like most herding dogs, they’re super smart and love participating in competitive herding trials. They can make great therapy dogs or work in search and rescue roles — basically, this dog loves a job. They have flowing multi-colored coats and are loyal and affectionate. They’re also social and love the company of people and other animals. They have a lot of personality and energy, so they’re a good choice for families with the time, space, and patience to train them properly.

Big Fluffy Dog Breeds

Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are famous for their impressive size, muscular build, and thick fluffy coats. They are believed to be one of the oldest and most primitive dog breeds in the world and are protective and loyal. They’re often described as “brave,” perhaps because they have such a stubborn personality that no one can actually make them do anything. Tibetan Mastiffs need a lot of space and exercise, so they do best in homes with very large yards or properties. If you have time to brush and train them and have room for them to roam, they make great family members.

Chow Chow

The Chow Chow has a thick double coat that can be smooth or rough and various colors, including red, black, blue, cream, and cinnamon. These floofy dogs also have distinctive blue-black tongues. They’re sometimes described as looking “lion-like,” but their soft round ears and hooded eyes are very bear-like, too. They can be very independent and need good early training and socialization to keep that stubborn streak from turning into aggression or naughty behavior. They’re best for experienced dog people who have time to brush them daily.

Samoyed

The Samoyed is from Siberia, Russia, and they have thick white coats, perfect for the harsh Arctic climate. If you don’t live in the Arctic, Samoyeds can still make wonderful pets but have mercy on them if you’re in a warmer area; they should always have access to shade and water. They love outdoor play and need lots of daily exercise, such as hiking, running, and playing in the snow. Samoyeds are friendly and affectionate dogs and are generally good with children and other pets, as long as those pets are on the bigger side. They have a high prey drive, so homes with hamsters should beware.

Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is another beautiful dog from Scotland. They have shaggy, waterproof fluffy coats in a variety of colors but are probably most recognized in their gray and white form, with long droopy ears streaming around their faces. They have friendly, outgoing personalities and are known for being smart and trainable. Beardies are very active dogs and will play enthusiastically, so they’re best for households with active lifestyles. They also need regular brushing, bathing, and trimming to keep that shag from looking drab.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute was bred as a working dog, and they have had some hard jobs in the cold, mainly hauling heavy freight and sleds in the Arctic regions. These large-breed dogs are super strong and have dense coats to keep them warm; they are meant for the outdoors and prefer cooler climates. They almost look like a Husky on steroids, and, like Huskies, they tend to howl rather than bark. They will do best in bigger homes with backyards and families who love to walk till they drop. They are good guard dogs for more remote properties, and though they don’t love training, they will love you.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees originated in the Pyrenees Mountains, bordering France and Spain, and has a majestic appearance and gentle temperament. Their thick double coats are usually white or cream and need lots of grooming. Though these fluffy dogs were bred as sheep-guarding working dogs, they’re more chill than some other working breeds. They require training, but love kids, other animals, and their pet parents. While a Great Pyrenees needs regular exercise and engagement, they’re happy to sit down by your feet after a good long walk and relax.

Keeshond

The Keeshond, sometimes playfully called the “Smiling Dutchman,” is originally from the Netherlands and has a silver-gray fluffy coat with distinctive black markings around their eyes. They were originally bred as watchdogs and companions, so they love barking and being near you in that order. Lots of regular exercise and socialization will keep them in good spirits. They generally like kids and other pets but can be wary of strangers, so go easy during new introductions.

Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdogs, who are sometimes known as “Nanny Dogs,” are gentle giants who only want to be included in the goings on of their families. Though sheepdogs are super smart and easy to train, they can be playfully stubborn. They’re also good guard dogs, so expect some barking if they sense intruders. Old English Sheepdogs are not high-energy dogs, but these fluffy pups need regular walks and play and a healthy diet, or they might get a bit chunky. It can be hard to tell when they gain weight, though, because of their thick, long coats. Brush them well and enjoy the benefits (less shedding on the furniture).

Is a fluffy dog right for you?

While fluffy dogs are undeniably cute, their high-maintenance grooming needs make them unsuitable for some pet parents. Grooming the thick coats of beautiful fluffy pups keeps them healthy and prevents matting and shedding. Brushing your dog at least once a week is recommended, though that varies by breed and season. Make sure to do this regularly from a young age so they understand it as a consistent part of their routine; this will make grooming much easier.

How much do fluffy dogs shed?

The amount that fluffy dogs shed can vary depending on the breed and individual dog. For example, breeds like the Samoyed and Chow Chow are known for their heavy shedding. Other fluffy breeds, such as the Bichon Frise, have coats that do not shed much and are considered hypoallergenic, though they still require regular grooming to prevent matting.

There is also a seasonal aspect to shedding: most shedding dogs have big sheds in spring and autumn as their coat turns over. Regular grooming is one of the best ways to deal with shedding because it keeps that extra hair on the brush instead of the furniture.

What type of brush should be used for fluffy dogs?

The best type of brush for each dog depends on their coat. A slicker brush is good for removing loose hair and preventing matting, while a pin brush is good for detangling and removing debris. A comb can also remove tangles and mats. If your dog has mats or tangles, detangle them carefully to avoid hurting your dog and turning grooming into torture. Use a detangling spray or conditioner to help loosen the knots, and use your fingers or a comb to gently work through them.

What’s the best shampoo for fluffy dogs?

Fluffy dogs need gentle, moisturizing shampoos that will not dry out their skin or coat. Look for shampoos specifically designed for dogs with long or thick coats, and avoid harsh chemicals or fragrances that may irritate your dog’s skin.

Do fluffy dogs need to go to a professional groomer?

Trim your pup’s coat regularly to prevent matting and keep it manageable, focusing on areas like the ears, paws, and tail, which are particularly magnetic to garbage and bits of food. While it’s nice to do all this stuff to build a bond with your pet, getting them groomed professionally is not throwing in the towel. A professional groomer can be the best choice to keep your high-maintenance dog spic-and-span.

By Alicia Kort

Larisa Stefanjuk / Shutterstock
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so we don’t believe that any dog breed is truly ugly — they’re all cute and endearing in their own ways. But certain dog breeds can look a little … more unique than others. They might be totally hairless, hairless in certain spots, have egg-shaped heads, have eyes that take up 50 percent of their faces, or have jowls that go halfway down their chests. There’s even an ugliest dog contest dedicated to honoring the most unique-looking pups out there.

Of course, looks aren’t everything, either. These “ugly” dog breeds all have their charms and talents, including tracking down people who are missing by smell alone and serving as guard dogs since Ancient Rome. Regardless of looks, all the dog breeds on this list are affectionate and loving and would make great additions to your family. Here are ten of the ugliest dog breeds who are sure to steal your heart.

Ugly (but oh so cute) dog breeds

1. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested looks like they should be the lead singer in a punk rock band with their spiky, crested hairdo, feathery tail, furry socks, and otherwise hairless body. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days fans might recall that a Chinese Crested starred as the protagonists’ new pet. Underneath this tiny dog’s disheveled appearance is a loving and loyal pup who just wants to spend time with their family. Weighing only up to 12 pounds, the Chinese Crested doesn’t need much exercise beyond a daily walk and some playtime. Just keep in mind that they need sunscreen or a protective coat if they play outside because they can get sunburns as humans do.

2. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, called “Xolo” for short, is an ancient breed of dog who the Aztecs revered and considered a companion to the gods. This sweet, devoted pup comes in three different sizes — toy, miniature, and standard — and can be completely hairless or have a very short coat of hair. Xolos can weigh as little as 10 pounds and as much as 55 pounds. These dogs make great companions for families and know that the home is for relaxing, but they are still active dogs and need long walks and plenty of playtime. Like the Chinese Crested, hairless Xolos also need sunscreen on sunny days.

3. Neapolitan Mastiff

If you were to tell a joke to a Neapolitan Mastiff, you would ask, “Why the long face?” This majestic dog, who can weigh up to 150 pounds, boasts many rolls of wrinkles, especially around their face and neck, that give them a permanent look of befuddlement. Mastiffs used to be guard dogs and are heavily built and powerful, but now they prefer to lay around the house with their family (and drool on them). They like to play, but Neapolitan Mastiffs shouldn’t turn quickly or do a lot of sharp starts and stops because they can get injured. As for grooming, these large pups need baths, and their ears and eyes should be wiped out frequently.

4. Boxer

The Boxer is a strong pup whose breed name fits their appearance; they weigh up to 80 pounds and can stand as high as 25 inches at the shoulder. Their faces also don’t always look the most inviting, but don’t let that fool you — Boxers are great with young children and highly affectionate with their families. Energetic and sometimes a little goofy, Boxers need a lot of time and space for playing and running around. Although they might be higher maintenance when it comes to exercise, they’re easy to groom: They just need a once-over with a brush once a week and a bath once in a while.

5. Pug

The Pug’s flat face, bulbous eyes, and tendency to breathe heavily could be considered ugly by some, although others argue these features are adorable. Regardless of what camp you land in, it’s hard to argue that Pugs don’t have cute personalities (and sweet little curly tails). They have very human facial expressions, will argue with their people, and can be tricksters. Pugs, who only weigh up to 18 pounds, are devoted dogs who want to spend their entire day with you. They need moderate amounts of exercise but can struggle to breathe in hot weather, so they shouldn’t be overexerted. Pugs are prone to having eye health issues and are easy to groom, but they do shed.

6. Bloodhound

Bloodhoods, no matter what age, boast a wise, wrinkled face that seems to have answers to questions that we’ve been searching for. This might be because they have an incredible sleuthing ability; although this pup is generally easy-going and relaxed, they will follow a scent to the ends of the earth when they pick one up. They can be stubborn in this regard and should always be kept on a leash or in a fenced area when exploring. Bloodhounds also have a knack for digging, so the fence should go fairly deep underground. This “ugly” breed can weigh up to 110 pounds and is known to drool, so it’s advisable to keep a cloth near their water bowls to mop it up.

7. Schnauzer

The Schnauzer can be either standard-sized or miniature, but no matter how big, they boast a Gandalf-esque bushy beard and matching bushy eyebrows, which make them seem like old men trapped in dogs’ bodies. As intelligent as their eyebrows are big, Schnauzers love to partake in mentally stimulating activities and can become bored if not engaged. Schnauzers have the endurance for long walks and can thrive in families with young children, though it might take them some time to warm up to other animals. These double-coated dogs don’t tend to shed a lot, but they still need to be brushed several times weekly. They should be groomed every month or so as well. Their little beard can get a little dirty, and their eyebrow hair can cover their eyes if allowed to grow out too much.

8. Bull Terrier

Bull Terriers are one of the goofier-looking dogs on this list. With their iconic egg-shaped heads, very small eyes, and muscular bodies, they are a unique mix of contrasting features. They can weigh up to 70 pounds and reach up to 22 inches at shoulder height. These pups are independent-minded and need firm training early on and socialization with other dogs. They are active and require a lot of exercise and attention from their parents. Bull Terriers’ coats are short yet soft, so they just need a once-over once in a while to loosen dirt and fur.

9. American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier might not have any fur to speak of, but they do have an abundance of love to give their family. Hailing from Louisiana, this American dog is hypoallergenic, thanks to the lack of fur, though there are also coated varieties of this breed. The hairless variety needs to be properly attired in the winter and wear sunscreen on hot days. This petite pup reaches up to 16 inches at shoulder height and weighs up to 16 pounds. They are good around other pets and young children, though kids should be supervised with these pups. This terrier needs a moderate amount of exercise, consisting of both play and walks. They also enjoy plenty of time napping and relaxing next to their family.

10. Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier looks a little otherworldly, thanks to their very furry legs, tiny head, and disproportionately long beard. This “ugly” breed, which originated in Ireland and was originally a farm dog, weighs up to 40 pounds and stands up to 19.5 inches at shoulder height. They’re famous for their blue fur, which can vary in shade, and requires weekly brushing and frequent trips to the groomer. This breed needs plenty of exercise and enjoys swimming, jogging, and participating in canine sports. That said, when they aren’t playing, they want to rest beside their families.

Avoiding health issues

It’s worth noting that poor breeding or inbreeding can lead to an abundance of health issues and abnormalities in dogs that may give them an “ugly” appearance. Bad breeding often occurs at puppy mills or backyard breeders, but inbreeding can also happen among registered breeders who engage in overbreeding.

Because it’s hard to tell what kind of breeder is responsible, it’s always better to adopt animals and not support bad practices. A surprising amount of dogs of popular breeds end up in shelters or breed-specific rescue groups, so it is still possible to get a Pug or a Bull Terrier from a shelter. You don’t have to go to a breeder to get the type of dog you want.

Do you want to adopt an ugly dog? 

When you’re ready to adopt, visit Adopt A Pet to find available dogs in your area. You can browse through all the dogs available for adoption (including those with adorable underbites), filter by sex, fur color, and breed and learn more about their personalities and any special needs.

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Alicia Kort is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She’s currently the senior commerce editor at Apartment Therapy. She’s been published in StyleCaster, Electric Literature, Newsweek, Interview, Brooklyn magazine and more. In her free time, she runs, reads, and spends time with her dog-nieces, Maya and Lady, and her cat-niece, Pepper.

By Alicia Kort

Westend61 GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo
There are plenty of pups out there who can handle the cold weather much better than humans can. Many dogs were bred to work jobs in cold climates, including guarding livestock, herding, and pulling sleds across the tundra. Their fluffy, voluminous coats not only inspire most humans to pet them but also allow them to easily handle very cold temperatures — though they can struggle with warmer weather.

If you’re considering adopting a pup, these cold-weather breeds are known for their enthusiasm and they’ll eagerly join you on any outdoor adventures, even in the frostiest conditions. And they’re not just adept to colder temps; they’re incredibly affectionate and devoted members of the family. We rounded up 10 of the best dogs of all sizes for cold weather below.

10 Best Dog Breeds for Cold Weather

1. Siberian Husky

Unsurprisingly, Huskies are at the top of this list. This medium-sized northern breed hails from Siberia, a province in Russia known for its frigid temperatures, and can weigh as much as 60 pounds and reach 23.5 inches at shoulder height. You might be most familiar with Huskies from hearing about the famous Balto, who was part of a sled dog team that delivered desperately needed medicine across Alaska.

Despite their chilly origins, Huskies are adaptable and can live in warmer climates or small urban spaces. Huskies love to run, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a fenced area and require several hours of exercise per day. They also have a double coat, which helps keep them insulated in the cold, that should be brushed weekly. Their undercoat needs to be raked and blown out twice a year.

2. Alaskan Malamute

The Husky’s larger cousin, the Alaskan Malamute, can weigh up to 80 pounds and stand as tall as 25 inches at shoulder height. While the Husky is a more compact cold-weather pup, the Alaskan Malamute is a powerfully built dog ready to tow anything through the snow. Because of their working background and history of living in packs, Malamutes can grow bored easily and need a leader to keep them in line. If their person does not establish themselves as the pack leader, Malamutes can be hard to train and control. The Malamute’s coat — a double coat with a tendency to serve as a home for mites — is also a little more high-maintenance and requires daily brushing.

3. Samoyed

Samoyeds, nicknamed “Sammies,” used to be working dogs who braved negative-degree days with ease. Sammies look like they’re perpetually smiling, but their upturned mouths keep them from drooling. This fluffy white dog breed is affectionate, great with young children, and prefers to spend as much time as possible with their families. Their thick, double-coated fur — the top coat is wiry while the undercoat is soft and wooly — tends to mat and needs to be brushed daily. They shed a little all year round but also have two big shedding seasons. Samoyeds can weigh as much as 65 pounds and reach 23.5 inches in height.

4. American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog looks a lot like the Samoyed’s younger sibling. The American Eskimo Dog can be three different sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The Standard American Eskimo Dog can weigh up to 35 pounds and be as tall as 19 inches at shoulder height. This small breed thrives in the snow and is a joy to watch whenever several inches cover the ground.

The American Eskimo Dog has boundless energy and high intelligence, so they need plenty of walks and playtime with their families. This pup can become destructive if left alone for too long; they prefer the company of people to solitude. Like the other breeds on this list, the American Eskimo Dog has a double-coat that sheds twice a year and must be brushed every few days.

5. St. Bernard

The St. Bernard used to traverse the snowy Swiss Alps, searching for lost or injured people. St. Bernards, who can weigh up to 180 pounds, make great hiking companions thanks to their mountain origins. Needless to say, the cold doesn’t bother this ruggedly powerful pup, but the heat does. St. Bernards are not happy in temperatures above 75 degrees and should be kept inside on hot, humid days. This is partially due to their longer fur (though there is a variety of St. Bernard with shorter fur), which needs to be brushed on a weekly basis, and more often during shedding periods. Despite this breed’s former occupation, they don’t require as much exercise as some other breeds on this list; they only need a long walk and half an hour of play.

6. Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers hail from the snowy mountains of Tibet, where they traditionally served as watchdogs and companions to Buddhist monks. This breed is on the smaller side of the medium-sized dog spectrum — they can weigh as much as 30 pounds and reach 17 inches tall at shoulder height — and boast a snowshoe-like furry foot that helps them pad through treacherous slopes with ease. Tibetan Terriers rock quite the stylish double-coated fur-do, which does need to be maintained by regular brushing and trips to the groomer. Tibetan Terriers are moderately active and highly affectionate dogs who can serve as hiking buddies and love playing. They generally do pretty well in warmer climates, but their warm coats can still cause them to overheat.

7. Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is the only dog native to Iceland. This breed strongly resembles a fox and has the intelligence to match; this small herding pup has the agility and skill to keep farm animals in check. They can weigh up to 30 pounds and reach 18 inches at shoulder height.

Despite their association with sheep, these pups are moderately active instead of high-energy, but they will still need a long walk and mentally stimulating play. They are cold-weather dogs, so they need to be carefully monitored if they’re out playing in warm weather. Icelandic Sheepdogs make great companions to families with small children and other pets but do leave a trail of fur around their homes year-round. This double-coated breed is always shedding a little bit, but they also have shedding seasons.

8. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland shares a name with the northeastern Canadian province from which it originally hails — a place that tends to be quite cold and damp. Luckily, these dogs have dense, single coats that can be black, brown, gray, or black and white to protect them in cold climates, but which can cause them to overheat in hot weather.

These long-faced pups are famously good with children, so much so that a Newfie is featured in Peter Pan as the kids’ “nanny” dog. Newfoundlands are great swimmers and need a moderate amount of exercise to thrive. These gentle giants can weigh up to 180 pounds and reach up to 28 inches tall and should be brushed once a week and more frequently during shedding seasons.

9. Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund was bred to herd a slightly more unusual animal: Reindeer. This intelligent, medium-sized breed can weigh up to 53 pounds and reach up to 21 inches at shoulder height and used to chase their charges around the Arctic Circle. These dogs know when it’s time to work and sometimes need to be convinced to play, but they’re also even-keeled and more than capable of relaxing at home with family and younger children.

This fluffy, fox-like pup boasts a double coat that needs to be brushed weekly during shedding seasons. Their coat helps them self-regulate in both colder and warmer temperatures, so they should never be shaved, as doing so will have the opposite effect.

10. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a calm, regal pup whose fluffy coats kept them warm while they guarded livestock in the mountains. Despite their large stature — they can weigh more than 100 pounds and be as tall as 32 inches at shoulder height — they prefer lower levels of activity. They used to defend livestock from predators such as wolves, so they tried to save their energy for those encounters. Their thick double coats can cause them to overheat in warmer weather, but it is dirt- and tangle-resistant, so it doesn’t require as much brushing. They vigorously shed their undercoat several times a year and will need help brushing it out.

How do these breeds do in fair or hot weather?

All of the breeds on this list are more than happy to feel the wind rustling their fur in fair weather, but when it gets up into 80-degree territory, pet parents should limit the time their pups spend outside in the heat. Some breeds are less bothered by warm weather than others, but in general, the largest, double-coated dogs shouldn’t be sprinting around in hot temperatures because they can overheat and struggle to catch their breath. Pet parents should limit their dogs’ time outdoors to potty breaks and short walks and keep most of their play indoors on scorching days.

Grooming cold weather dogs

Cold-weather pups all boast big, furry coats, and no matter what climate you live in, these coats will shed multiple times a year and, in some cases, year-round. If not properly cared for, their coats can become matted or harbor infections, so it is important to know what you’re getting into when it comes to grooming.

How much do long-haired dogs shed?

The best dogs for cold weather shed quite a bit; pet parents should be prepared to brush them weekly to keep their coats healthy. Most of the dogs on this list have double coats, which means that the undercoat will shed twice a year. That coat needs to be brushed or blown out by the owner or a groomer during the shedding seasons, or not only will the pup shed all over the house, but their coat can also grow matted.

How often should you brush your dog?

Every dog breed requires a different amount of brushing. It also depends on the season. Some of the fluffiest dogs on this list need to be brushed every day, but most can manage with a brushing session once a week (if it isn’t shedding season). Most dogs on this list have two coats — an undercoat and a topcoat. It is usually the undercoat that sheds twice a year. Intrepid pet parents can opt to handle shedding season without professional help, but groomers have special tools to get the undercoat brushed out to give both you and your dog relief.

What type of brush should you use?

If your dog has a double coat, you will need to use multiple types of brushes. You can use a regular de-matting brush to work out tangles, snags, and loose fur. Think of it as a daily or weekly maintenance tool. During shedding season, when pet parents need to help their pup shed their undercoat, they’ll need a pin brush or a rake brush to try to coax that loose hair out.

What if they get tangles or mats?

Your pup likely got those mats because you’re only brushing the top layer of their coat. When you only brush the top layer, you’re pushing mats down closer to their skin, which means they’ll be harder to extract. Going forward, pet parents should make sure they’re brushing all the way down through the undercoat. Your first step against mats should be a detangling conditioning spray and a brush. If the mats are too numerous, take your pup to a groomer.

Do cold-weather dogs need baths?

Just like any dog, yes. Baths can help remove dirt and keep your pup’s skin healthy, but if some breeds are bathed too often, it can cause skin irritation and for the dog’s natural oils (which helps keep their coat healthy) to dry out. It can help to invest in a dog shampoo made for double-coated breeds. Just be sure to thoroughly rinse your pup because leftover shampoo can irritate their skin.

Should I shave my dog in the summer?

No, you should not shave your double-coated dog during the summer because shaving your pup can have the opposite effect that you think it will. Their double coat helps them regulate their body temperature — even when it’s warm. Without their coats, they will struggle to cool off in the summer. If you’re struggling to keep up with their shedding season, take them to a groomer regularly to keep their coat healthy.

Considering adopting a cold-weather dog? 

When you’re ready to adopt, visit Adopt A Pet to find available dogs in your area. You can filter by size, sex, fur color, and even breed then learn more about their personality and temperament. Find the perfect pup for you.

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Alicia Kort is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn. She’s currently the senior commerce editor at Apartment Therapy. She’s been published in StyleCaster, Electric Literature, Newsweek, Interview, Brooklyn magazine and more. In her free time, she runs, reads, and spends time with her dog-nieces, Maya and Lady, and her cat-niece, Pepper.