Some dogs light up when the world turns white. They leap into drifts, dig tunnels, and race like the cold is their favorite toy.
But the same dogs can give you the side-eye when the tub appears. Learn which snowy superstars need extra care on bath day, plus simple tips to keep them clean, comfy, and happy.
Siberian Husky
Cold mornings make this sprinter grin, as if snowflakes were confetti just for him. Bred to run long distances, the Siberian Husky handles icy wind with thick double fur and eager energy.
Bath day flips the script, since wet fur can feel heavy and smells linger. Keep wipes handy between full washes, brush weekly to lift loose undercoat, and use lukewarm water plus a gentle, drying room to protect skin.
Towel well afterward for warmth.
Alaskan Malamute
Picture a living snowplow with a grin. The Alaskan Malamute was built to haul heavy loads across frozen trails, using massive shoulders, sturdy legs, and a plush coat that shrugs at blizzards.
Bath time brings a different story, because dense undercoat traps water and drying can take hours. Brush out tangles before washing, choose a mild shampoo, rinse forever, then use fans or a cool dryer to prevent skin issues.
Reward patience with chewy treats.
Samoyed
Smiles come easy to the fluffy Samoyed, especially when snow piles higher than boots. Their bright white coat reflects sun, keeps body heat steady, and somehow stays cheerful even in a whiteout.
Baths are trickier, since that stunning fur mats if rushed and holds water like a sponge. Start with a metal comb, work in sections, use gentle shampoo, and rinse until the water runs truly clear.
Then dry completely with cool airflow and patience.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Farm roots show when snow arrives, because the Bernese Mountain Dog moves like a steady tractor in a winter field. Tri-colored fur insulates well, and broad paws grip slick ground so playtime feels safe and confident.
Soap bubbles, though, can flatten that coat and create cold spots if drying falls short. Use a hydrating shampoo, rinse forever, squeeze water with absorbent towels, then finish with low heat while brushing to prevent tangles.
Treat breaks help.
Newfoundland
With a heart as big as its paws, the Newfoundland treats snow like soft stage lighting for gentle heroics. Historically a water rescue dog, it tolerates cold with a thick, oily coat and calm strength.
Ironically, bath day can be hardest, because that same coat resists wetting, then clings to moisture afterward. Work shampoo in sections, use a dilution bottle, rinse and rinse again, and plan fans, towels, and quiet time for thorough drying.
Generously.
Great Pyrenees
Night watch in fresh powder suits the Great Pyrenees, whose guardian instincts glow under the moon. Big, soft fur sheds snow and keeps muscles warm during slow patrols or joyful bounding.
Bathing often earns a skeptical stare, since waterlogged fluff takes ages to dry and can cause itchy skin. Aim for routine brushing, wipe muddy spots, and when a full bath is needed, choose cool air, time, and patience for thorough drying.
Ear checks matter.
Akita
Quiet pride shows as the Akita steps into fresh snow like a samurai entering a calm garden. The dense coat and strong frame love crisp weather, turning walks into bold, focused adventures.
Water, however, spoils the mood, because undercoat sheds best when dry and can mat with rushed scrubbing. Use a shedding rake before baths, choose gentle shampoo, rinse carefully, then dry with fans while offering calm praise to keep stress low.
Trim nails regularly.
Saint Bernard
Legend says barrel bearer, but snow buddy fits even better for the warmhearted Saint Bernard. Huge paws paddle through drifts, and drooly smiles invite families to join plodding, happy hikes.
Soap days can feel dramatic, because heavy coat and skin folds trap moisture and need careful drying. Focus on gentle products, rinse under the collar area, towel thoroughly, and use fans to keep ears, chest, and belly fully dry to avoid hot spots.
Reward cooperation.
Chow Chow
Stately and lion-like, the Chow Chow treats snowy yards like royal courtyards. A rough or smooth coat deflects wind, while sturdy build enjoys crisp, quiet play.
Bath routines can unsettle them, since dense fur mats fast and damp areas risk skin trouble. Use a high-quality pin brush, blow out loose hair before washing, shampoo gently, and finish with cool airflow aimed in layers to keep the skin dry.
Respect space and move slowly during grooming.
Keeshond
Laughing eyes and a plumed tail turn snowy parks into stages for the merry Keeshond. Foxlike markings and a lush coat handle cold play, from zigzag zoomies to quick sled chases.
Baths can sap the sparkle, because that coat tangles if rushed and holds dampness near the skin. Spritz conditioner for brushing slip, comb in layers, rinse completely, then dry with cool air while fluffing to keep volume and comfort.
Plan breaks and happy chatter.
Norwegian Elkhound
History whispers of fjords and hunts, and the Norwegian Elkhound still relishes crisp snowfall. Springy feet, curled tail, and a weatherproof coat make winter trails feel natural and exciting.
Bathing, on the other hand, can dull spirits because double coat dries slowly and loosens protective oils. Groom weekly, spot clean mud, and when washing is needed, choose mild shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry with fans to keep the coat healthy.
Finish with a brisk brush.
Rough Collie
A sweeping mane and gentle gaze meet sparkling snow, turning the Rough Collie into a winter storybook. They enjoy chilly walks, and that long coat shields them from wind while keeping style points high.
Bubble time can tangle fringes, especially behind ears and under the belly where mats hide. Mist with detangler, separate sections, shampoo gently, rinse forever, and blow-dry cool while brushing to keep that flowing look without hot spots or itch.
Check paws.