As temperatures rise, it’s important to protect your dog. Not all dogs are built for the heat. While some dogs thrive in warm weather, others struggle and the consequences can be deadly. Brachycephalic breeds, thick-coated pups, and dogs with certain health conditions are especially vulnerable in extreme heat. Here are eight dog breeds that need extra care when temperatures soar. Choosing the wrong breed can mean constant overheating, health issues, or worse.
1. Bulldog (English & French)
Bulldogs struggle with heat primarily because of their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, which makes it harder for them to pant efficiently. This is a dog’s main way of cooling down. Their compact airways and shortened snouts restrict airflow. So, they can’t regulate body temperature as effectively as longer-nosed breeds. Additionally, their stocky build and tendency toward obesity make them prone to overheating even during mild activity. This combination puts them at high risk for heatstroke, especially in warm or humid conditions.
2. Pug
Pugs are another brachycephalic breed that struggles significantly in hot weather. Their flat faces and short nasal passages limit airflow, making it difficult for them to cool down through panting. This makes them highly susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. You have to be careful even after short walks or light play. Pugs also tend to have compact, muscular bodies and can gain weight easily, which adds extra strain on their breathing and body temperature regulation. They tend to overexert themselves, so keep a close eye on them.
3. Siberian Husky
Huskies are built for cold, snowy climates, which makes them poorly suited for hot weather. Their thick double coat, designed to insulate against subzero temperatures, traps heat and can quickly lead to overheating in warm or humid environments. While their coat does offer some protection from sunburn and minor temperature changes, it’s not enough to prevent heat stress when temperatures rise. Huskies are also highly energetic and need regular exercise, but in the heat, too much activity can become dangerous.
4. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are especially vulnerable in hot weather due to their dense, woolly double coat, which acts like insulation and traps heat close to the body. Originally bred for cold climates, this breed is not equipped to handle high temperatures and can overheat quickly. Their compact build and relatively short muzzle also limit their ability to cool down efficiently through panting. In warm weather, they require extra care, like limited exercise during peak heat, constant access to shade and water, and close monitoring for signs of overheating.
5. Boxer
Boxers short snouts and narrow airways mean they can overheat faster than longer-nosed breeds, especially during physical activity. They are also naturally energetic and may push themselves too hard. In addition, they have a short coat that doesn’t offer much protection from sun exposure, making them prone to sunburn. In warm climates, Boxers need plenty of shade, water, and rest breaks to avoid dangerous spikes in body temperature.
6. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus short snouts and thick fur make them prone to overheating. Even moderate temperatures can be challenging. Be especially careful if they’re exercising or exposed to direct sunlight. Regular grooming, cool indoor environments, and limited outdoor activity during hot weather are essential to keeping this breed safe and comfortable.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are giant dogs originally bred for cold, alpine environments, making them highly vulnerable in warm climates. Their thick, heavy double coat is excellent for insulating against snow and ice, but becomes a liability in hot weather, trapping body heat and slowing the cooling process. Their large size also means they generate and retain more heat than smaller dogs. Saint Bernards often have a slower metabolism and can be less active, but even light exertion in the heat can lead to overheating.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may be small and sweet, but they can struggle in hot weather due to their longer, silky coats and flat faces. While not as brachycephalic as some breeds, their shortened snouts still limit airflow. Their coats, although beautiful, can trap heat, especially if not regularly groomed. Cavaliers are also prone to certain heart conditions, which can be worsened by heat stress.
Keep Your Pup Safe in the Heat
No matter the breed, all dogs need shade, water, and limited activity during hot weather. But for these vulnerable breeds, extra precautions are essential. When in doubt, keep them indoors, avoid midday walks, and know the signs of heatstroke; it could save your dog’s life.
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