8 dogs that could replace Santa’s reindeer this Christmas

We might be celebrating Christmas in July, but we are already thinking ahead to the actual holidays. And that also means thinking of dogs for Santa!

Don’t get me wrong, we love Santa’s reindeer, but even they need a break sometimes. And who better to replace them than some of our favorite dog breeds? I can’t say that there is a dog out there that would make a better Rudolph or Dasher, but what if Santa could snuggle a Chow Chow or an Akita this Christmas instead of mushing a group of reindeer.

While I’m not kicking Santa’s reindeer out of the North Pole or their barn, I think these eight pups might just be the perfect addition to the Claus family. And if I did happen to try to pair a pup to the reindeer’s personality, who could blame me. (Also Rudolph, gets to stay because of the whole nose thing.)

8 dogs that could take over for Santa’s Reindeer this Christmas

Dasher – Alaskan Malamute

It is said that Dasher is one of the faster reindeers and he loves to run. And that’s why the Alaskan Malamute is our go-to for this spot on the sleigh. Considering Santa needs dogs that can handle cold weather at the North Pole, we had to go with a pup who can handle the cold. Plus, the Alaskan Malamute is known for running, roaming, and hauling heavy loads.

Dancer – American Eskimo Dog

Dancer is perhaps the most extroverted of all of Santa’s Reindeer, and it is said that he lives up to his name. So it just made sense that we would look to the American Eskimo Dog to take over for this iconic reindeer. These pups are known for being both compact and playful, in fact, these dogs were once circus performers with Barnum and Bailey Circus according to Outside Online.

Prancer – Great Pyrenees

Prancer is said to be a vain reindeer, but with a very affectionate nature. And it is this affection that makes us think of the Great Pyrenees. It also helps that these pups are quite gorgeous and would be a perfect representative for this member of Santa’s crew.

Vixen – Akita

Often described as slightly tricky, Vixen is known for magic. And considering the Akita is a royal dog with an independent and stubborn nature, it just felt like that stubbornness might translate to tricky. Bring on the regality, as the Akita has no problem with cold weather or hard work.

Comet – Bernese Mountain Dog

Comet has been described as an easygoing and handsome reindeer, who is also good with children. And if ever there was a breed of dog that represented Comet best it would have to be the Bernese Mountain Dog. These dogs are gentle giants are strong and fast with a loving temperament. They are also great dogs for carrying gear and even you, so just think that these dogs would make great reindeer replacements.

Cupid – Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

When it comes to Santa’s reindeer, Cupid doesn’t live up to his Roman counterpart. Instead, this reindeer is really just affectionate and happy to bring people together (okay he maybe lives up to the arrow shooter a little). And the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is another gentle giant. They have been compared to draft horses in their demeanor and abilities and their gentle affection is enough to make us think that they could easily take Cupid’s job.

Donner – Siberian Husky

Donner has been described as the loud reindeer who can sing (or something). And there is no other dog breed ever that can live up to the Siberian Husky in terms of loud and singing. Seriously, watch a video of a Husky singing and you’ll immediately know that this dog is Donner in disguise. They are soulmates.

Blitzen – Samoyed

Blitzen is known for extremely fast and energizing others. And if you have a fast reindeer, you might want a dog that is known to actually herd them. That’s right, the Samoyed is actually a reindeer herder. So there is no way that we wouldn’t swap out our resident speed reindeer for a Samoyed!

Honorable Mention:

Did you know that there is technically a ninth reindeer besides Rudolph? The reindeer’s name is Olive, and Olive is not only a hide-and-go-seek champion, but also knows how to admit when they are wrong. (However, in some stories, Olive is in fact a dog – a Jack Russell Terrier. But that doesn’t work for this kind of reindeer roundup.) And if we are including Olive in the mix, then we need a dog to take this reindeer’s place in the lineup.

Olive – Chow Chow

The final reindeer has to be replaced by our beloved Chow Chow. Considering these dogs are known for hide and seek (or at least the seeking part), it makes sense that they would take Olive’s place in the reindeer pack.

What do you think? Which dog would you pair with each of Santa’s reindeer? And I have to ask, did you know about Olive? Let us know in the comments below.