Some dogs think the colder it is, the better!
Winter is here, and for some dogs, that means it's time to play! Not all dogs mind the colder temperatures, and for these breeds, the winter months are a blast. Whether they're running through the snow or taking a brisk walk on a cold day, these dogs are built to enjoy the colder weather.
When we're cold it's easy to assume our dog is, too. But watch their behavior and some dogs will clearly communicate that they are feeling GREAT when temperatures get below 50 degrees. If you have a dog who relishes the cold, think about a winter photo session - just for them. And bonus, winter landscapes are incredibly beautiful, with their stark contrasts, textures and muted color palette. ALL the images on this page were made in the winter.
Some breeds are specifically designed for cold weather - think about the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Newfoundland, Samoyed and the Bernese Mountain Dog.
These breeds have thick coats that protect them from the cold and are known for their endurance in snowy and icy conditions. They were originally bred for tasks such as pulling sleds and carts or as rescue dogs in snowy mountains.
Another group that enjoys cold weather are the Spitz breeds such as the American Eskimo, the Alaskan Klee Kai and the Norwegian Elkhound. These hardy dogs have a thick double coat that provides insulation and protection from the cold. They were originally bred for hunting and herding in cold climates.
Many other breeds can also enjoy the colder months such as Labradors, Rottweilers and German Shepherds. They have thick coats and think a cold day is the best thing ever.
Hunting breeds are also tremendously tough and resilient. Dogs such as the English Pointer, English Setter, German Shorthaired Pointer and English Springer Spaniel are hunting dogs who are seemingly impervious to almost any forecast when they are out using their noses to locate, point and retrieve game.
Some terriers can also be absolutely exuberant when the temperatures drop.
And let's not forget about the farm dogs! They come in all shapes and sizes but one thing they have in common is a love for being outside in all weather, supervising and helping with farm chores and providing companionship to their loved ones.
So...think about the dog lying across your lap right now, or staring at you adoringly from across the room. Are they a breed listed above who comes alive in December and is panting and uncomfortable in August? If they're the former they are begging to be photographed now, when it's cold and they are feeling great.
And if you want to be in the photos, and I hope you do, just dig out your favorite sweater, hat and scarf! Hot chocolate was invented for a reason. 
Photo below: Me photographing dogs in Montana last year. It was -15 degrees when this image was taken.
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