A coat and undercoat that adapt to climatic conditions are a formidable asset for withstanding temperatures near or below zero.
Here are some dog and cat breeds that don’t mind the cold:
The Saint Bernard
This breed originates from the bas-reliefs of the Middle East and arrived in Switzerland in the 18th century. The Saint Bernard adapts perfectly to different temperatures. Originally, it had short fur. It was only when exposed to Switzerland’s low temperatures that its coat thickened.
Thanks to its evolution, it handles both heat and cold with ease.
The Akita Inu
The Akita Inu originates from Honshu Island in Japan, in Akita Prefecture. The region is divided by mountains into two distinct climatic zones: the east coast enjoys a temperate climate year-round, while the inland areas experience hotter summers and colder winters, particularly with heavy snowfall in the Yokote region.
A born hunter, once used to track bears, deer, and wild boar. This dog fears neither heat nor cold—no special precautions are needed to help it adapt to temperatures.
The Newfoundland
This large plush toy hails from Newfoundland Island in Canada. The island experiences wildly shifting temperatures. In summer, temperatures can climb to 30°C with fairly dry weather, while in the cold season, fierce, freezing winds take over, and snow lingers. These harsh conditions have forged the Newfoundland’s resilient nature.
To withstand the icy waters surrounding its native island, the Newfoundland has a highly dense insulating undercoat that allows it to float, along with a water-resistant oily topcoat.
Thus, the Newfoundland adapts very easily to different temperatures.
The Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog originates from Switzerland. It remains highly valued for its guarding qualities.
This excellent breed often serves as a guide dog or as a search dog to locate skiers buried in snow. Its thick coat allows it to withstand freezing temperatures—it much prefers winter to summer!
The Norwegian
Thanks to its country of origin, the Norwegian has a coat that’s exceptionally well-suited to freezing temperatures. Its fur is medium-length, and its undercoat is dense.
In winter, the undercoat becomes especially fluffy and thick, keeping them nice and warm. It will shed as the warmer days approach, during the molting season.
The Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a semi-longhaired cat breed originating from the state of Maine in the United States.
Its medium-length coat, uneven in length along the back and flanks, is waterproof and thus protects it from the rain. It also provides effective insulation against low temperatures.
The British Shorthair
The British Shorthair hails from Great Britain. Due to its origins, this cat breed has adapted to the harsh climates of the British Isles, notably by developing a very dense coat. This woolly-looking fur allows it to withstand low temperatures and humidity.
