Digital Cover lifestyle© Maya Karkalicheva

Furry friends

Pet of the week: Watch these adorable dogs seeing snow for the first time

Snow provides a different sensory experience for dogs


Daniel Neira - Los Angeles
Senior WriterLos Angeles
DECEMBER 20, 2024 3:24 PM EST

It's that time of the year again! Adorable pups around the world are enjoying the arrival of snow with their wholesome reactions and celebratory dances. One of the latest dogs to go viral is Chonk, a Bernese mountain dog from Chicago, who had the happiest day after going on a stroll.

"He's waited all year for snow to return," his owner wrote, showing how excited Chonk was about seeing snow again. Apart from Chonk, dog owners all over social media are showing how their furry friends react to seeing snow for the first time. Here are some of the best videos showing their surprise during wintertime. 

Golden Retriever rolling over in the snow© PK-Photos
Golden Retriever rolling over in the snow

Why do dogs love snow?

Snow provides a different sensory experience for dogs as the cold texture, scent, and landscape change, becoming a refreshing new world for them, especially for dogs with thicker coats. 

The unique environment of snow makes pups excited, giving them a new reason to explore with new smells, playful activities, and a sense of adventure. 

Dogs such as the Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute are well-suited for snow, and their instincts are immediately activated when getting the feel of snow, even if it is for the first time. 

However, some dogs with short coats might not enjoy cold as much, and it's necessary to keep an eye on them and prevent risks of hypothermia or frostbite. Puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with certain conditions such as arthritis or other health problems could be affected by snowy conditions. 

Signs your dog is uncomfortable with snow:

Some of the signs that show your dog is not enjoying the snow and cold weather include shivering, anxious behavior, whining, whimpering or barking, a hunched posture, or a tucked tail, the lifting of their paws off the ground, refusing to walk once outside, or seeking out areas for shelter.