A coat and undercoat that can adapt to the weather is a formidable weapon for coping with temperatures close to zero or even below zero.

Here are some breeds of dogs and cats that are not afraid of the cold:

The Saint Bernard

This breed originated in the bas-reliefs of the Middle East and arrived in Switzerland in the 18th century. The St. Bernard knows perfectly well how to adapt to different temperatures. Originally, it had a short coat. It was only when it was confronted with the low temperatures of Switzerland that its coat became thicker.

Thanks to its evolution, neither hot nor cold is a problem for it.

• The Akita Inu

The Akita Inu originates from the island of Honshu in Japan, Akita Prefecture. It is divided by the mountains into two very different climatic zones: the coast is temperate throughout the year, while the interior experiences hotter summers and colder winters, with a significant amount of snow in the Yokote region.

It is a born hunter, used in the past to hunt bear, deer and wild boar. This dog is therefore not afraid of heat or cold, and no precautions need to be taken to help it adapt to the temperatures.

• Newfoundland

This large stuffed animal comes from the island of Newfoundland in Canada. This island has extremely variable temperatures. In the summer, temperatures can reach 30°C and the weather is quite dry; while in the cold season, strong winds and very cold weather prevail, and snow persists. These harsh conditions have hardened the Newfoundland.

To withstand the frigid water surrounding its island of origin, the Newfoundland has a very dense insulating undercoat that allows it to float, as well as an oily, water-resistant surface coat.

This allows the Newfoundland to adapt very easily to different temperatures.

• The Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is originally from Switzerland. He is always appreciated for his guarding qualities.

This very good pupil is often found as a guide dog or as a search dog to find skiers buried under the snow. His thick coat allows him to withstand sub-zero temperatures. He prefers winter to summer.

• The Norwegian

Thanks to its country of origin, the Norwegian has a coat that is particularly suited to freezing temperatures. It has a medium-length coat and a dense undercoat.

In winter, the undercoat is particularly fluffy and thick, which keeps him warm. This undercoat will fall out as the weather gets warmer and the cat moults.

• The Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is a semi-longhair cat breed originating from the state of Maine in the United States.

Its semi-long coat, which is unevenly long on the back and flanks, is waterproof and therefore protects it from rain. It also provides effective protection in low temperatures.

• The British Shorthair

The British Shorthair comes from Great Britain. Because of its origins, this cat breed has been able to adapt to the harsh climate of the British Isles, developing a very dense coat. This woolly coat protects the cat from low temperatures and humidity.