Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hot Weather
Is your dog going to beat the heat or and overheat and retreat? Read below to find out more!
When deciding what dog breed to adopt, it is important to take into consideration the climate conditions where you live. Humans are excited to include their furry friends in activities during the summer season. But, it is vital to think about how much time your pet can handle in the heat. Sometimes we forget to take their anatomy into consideration when choosing the right dog for a hot climate. Facial structure, size, and coat all contribute to a dog’s ability to tolerate hot weather.
If the dog is brachycephalic, it prevents the dog from being able to pant normally. Panting is one way a dog is able to cool down in hot weather, as they do not sweat to release body heat. Bigger dogs with double-layered coats, such as a Siberian Husky, have a harder time keeping cool in the summer. So, when you are looking for a new dog, remember that these are the best dog breeds for hot weather.
1. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a great dog for warm weather due to its size. As a native from Mexico, this toy breed thrives in hot weather and does not usually enjoy cold weather without a few layers. They come in multiple different colors, coat types, and coat lengths.
I’m Miso, a baby female #Terrier/#Chihuahua mix in Los Angeles, CA. 43493870 https://t.co/YezNJ376mz pic.twitter.com/SEp9sphcSD
— GayWeHo Dogs 4 U 🐶 (@GayWeHoDogs4U) December 9, 2018
This dog has a big personality and requires a strong trainer, but can live in almost any environment including an apartment. Chihuahuas do not require a lot of grooming or exercise. They do not require a large amount of food each day and are prone to obesity and health problems if they are overfed. Dental cleanings are usually suggested every other year for small dogs, due to the high amount of plaque that builds up on their teeth.
2. Beagle
The Beagle has always been one of the most popular dogs in the hound group. They are great for warm weather due to their small size and short coat. Curiosity may lead their noses on a long trail, so make sure they are trained to prevent them from running off. They are known for being great with children, due to their friendly and smart personality.
Beagles require little to no grooming and often are food motivated. But, they can be noisy and active, so a house environment is best for them.
3. Dobermann or Doberman Pinscher
The Dobermann, or commonly referred to as a Doberman Pinscher, is an extremely strong, muscular, and powerful breed. They can range from medium to large in size and have a very short coat. They are normally found with a docked tail and cropped ears due to breed standard, but neither is necessary.
Dobermans are known to be extremely energetic, obedient, and loyal, which may lead to guarding-like behaviors. A strong, knowledgeable trainer is required to prevent these behaviors. They do best in a warm climate with a big backyard to run around and play.
4. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is graceful yet glossy, and one of the best dogs for hot weather. They have extremely short hair and don’t require any grooming. Their outgoing personality requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. No matter what the temperature is, these dogs are ready to go. They are very smart, but possess an extremely high prey drive and often have issues with separation anxiety.
Weimaraners are great swimmers. A swim with your dog is an easy way to expend some energy and cool down on warm days. Their tails are generally docked to reduce the likelihood of being damaged while hunting, but this is not necessary if they plan on being a family pet.
5. Vizsla
The Vizsla is a sporty, rusty red hunting dog that also has short fur and a sleek coat. Similarly to the Weimaraner, the Vizsla does not like to be left alone and requires a large amount of exercise and mental stimulation. But, they are also great guard dogs and make a great medium sized family pet. They excel in warm environments because they don’t mind getting their paws wet.
My girl #hungarianvizsla#vizsla pic.twitter.com/bvC3UIbfcg
— Jo Bark (@FrankieCat123) December 1, 2018
6. Whippet
The Whippet is a gentle, loving creature that loves to run and play outside, and does better in a warm environment. Built like a Greyhound, Whippets are extremely fast and never should be let off a leash due to their high prey drive for small mammals.
They are quiet and do very well in an apartment situation, but are very stubborn and need training early in their lives. Very little grooming is required, but be careful with their fine skin as it can be easily scratched.
7. Greyhound
The Greyhound is the fastest dog, but also one of the most calm and gentle breeds. Known for their racing, Greyhounds are clean and love to live with other dogs. They also have very short fur and do well in warm climates.Recently, Florida voted to abolish all Greyhound racing by 2020, leaving a lot of Greyhounds who need homes.
Most people who adopt ex-racers often end up adopting more than one because theses dogs are so low maintenance. Keep in mind their skin is very thin and delicate, so plan on taking a few trips to the vet in its youngest years.
8. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer, also known as the GSP, is a friendly, fun-loving family dog that loves to be the center of attention. The GSP has short hair and is medium in size, making it perfect for warm temperature.
They succeed in any sport and need constant exercise. Due to their excitable nature, training needs to start early around children and other pets. They need a big house and backyard to run around. GSP frequently do very well in agility and obedience classes.
9. Dachshund
The Dachshund comes in many different sizes, colors, and coat textures. Most of them do not thrive in snowy climates, because they are so low to the ground. Training early is important for these spirited, feisty hounds.
Dachshunds want to make sure that everyone can hear them, even if they can’t see them down below. They generally do not make good family pets with young children and need a backyard to bury and dig in the dirt. But, their grooming and exercise needs are minimal, so they are frequently chosen for an apartment situation.
10. Retrievers
Even though retrievers have thicker coats than most of the dog breeds on this list, they love to swim and be in water. Retrievers are the most versatile and adaptable breed that works in schools, airports, and even hospitals. Retrievers are not only the most trainable dogs around; they are also the most caring and friendly dogs.
Families everywhere seek out retrievers due to their ability to tolerate children, other pets, and many environments. They are still very easily excitable, which doesn’t make them well suited for an apartment. Their coats do require a lot of attention and some people choose to shave them during the summer months.
When you love the toy your human got you. 😂🐶 pic.twitter.com/Sr8H0lvyc7
— Adorable Retrievers 🐶 (@RetrieversPic) December 3, 2018
If none of these dog breeds speak to you, try to find a mixed breed of one of the breeds on the list in an animal shelter. It is always important to bring plenty of water for our furry friends on all our outings, as dogs can become dehydrated very quickly. If you dog can’t take the heat, move them inside or under a cool, shady area. Keep in mind that obesity, age, and humidity all play a role in your dog’s safety as well.
Paw protection is also important when it comes to hiking or walking on the hot sand. Paw pads are very sensitive and require veterinary care if burnt badly. Your dog will not appreciate the foot wraps during the weeks of healing that follow. Try to avoid blacktop pavement as much as possible if walking in a neighborhood.
Use this chart with temperature and dog size to see if it’s safe for your dog to go outside and play. Lastly, please do not leave your dogs in hot cars. In over 26 states, leaving a dog unattended is a criminal charge, and one could also be tried for animal cruelty and neglect, which is a criminal charge in all 50 states.
Depending on your climate, you should look for a breed that thrives in warm, cold, or either. All of these different breeds offer distinctive characteristics and qualities that are great for hot weather. The best dog breeds for hot weather don’t stop at this list, do your research and find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.
- Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hot Weather - December 6, 2018