Top 9 Dog Breeds That Love Hot Weather and Sun

Some dogs love snow. Others? They’d rather stay in hot weather environments. If you live in a place where the sun never takes a break, then you need a dog that can handle it. Dog breeds that thrive in warm weather have short coats, lean body mass, and a high tolerance for warm air.

But keep in mind that extreme hot climates are dangerous for all dog breeds. It can lead to heat strokes, heat exhaustion, and even death in some cases. Austin Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center states that the survival rate in dogs with heat stroke is just 50%. That is why it is important to choose the right dog breeds that can tolerate heat.

In this guide, we will look at the best dog breeds that are suitable for warm climates. We have picked these dogs based on how well they handle hot temperatures, their coat type, body shape, and history.

Dog Breeds That Love Hot Weather

1. Chihuahua

The chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. The Chihuahua’s thin coat and low body fat make it perfect for hot climates.

This breed originally came from Mexico, so it is used to hot sun and warm air. It has a long or short coat that provides insulation against the heat. That’s why this dog is easy to handle in hot temperatures. But still, it is a good idea to keep your Chihuahua inside during the hottest part of the day.

Chihuahuas are also known for being loyal dogs that are full of personality. They are great indoor companions and don’t need a lot of space.

2. Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is strong and full of energy. It was originally bred in Australia to herd cattle in dry and hot areas. So it is one of the dog breeds that loves hot weather the most.

This breed has a short double coat that dissipates heat and protects it from warmer temperatures. Australian Cattle Dogs do adapt to heat due to their origins and build, but double-coated breeds still require care in high heat.

These dogs have a lean body mass and can handle long periods of activity under the hot sun. These are intelligent dogs that also need a lot of exercise and agility training. This is why they are suitable for active families or people with big yards.

3. Basenji

The Basenji is an ancient breed that originated in Africa between 6000 BCE and 100 CE. It is also known as the bush or the Congo dog due to its African origin. PetMD states that this hunting dog was made to run through hot weather environments. They have short coarse hair coats and very low body fat that helps them tolerate heat.

The Basenji doesn’t bark much like other breeds. That is why it is known “barkless dog.” Thanks to its slender frame and short hair, the Basenji stays cool even when temperatures go up. This breed doesn’t really do well in cold weather or wintry climates. So it is pretty much ideal for hot days and warm climates.

4. Canaan Dog

The Canaan Dog is the national dog of Israel. Purina states that this breed originated in the deserts of Israel. This means it is well adapted to hot weather and temperature extremes.

These dogs have a smooth coat, a slender frame, and large, erect ears that help them stay cool. The ears allow cool air to move through and help remove excess heat.

The Canaan Dog is a natural guard dog. It does well in both family homes and work environments. It doesn’t like the cold climates, but it stays strong and active in the heat.

5. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested comes in hairless and coated varieties. The hairless version just has smooth skin and a few tufts of hair, not fur. This makes it one of the best breeds that thrives in hot weather conditions.

This dog stays comfy in warmer temperatures because there’s no thick coat to trap heat. However, it is important to protect its skin from sunburn. The breed is gentle and great with families. It enjoys lounging but also loves short walks in warm air.

6. Greyhound

The Greyhounds are one of the fastest and oldest dog breeds. This breed originated from the desert landscapes of Egypt. They may look like racing dogs, but in reality, these pooches are total couch potatoes!

They have a thin coat, low body fat, and a slender frame. These things help it conserve energy and stay cool even during the hot days. It also has long noses, which help cool the air it breathes.

Greyhounds do need regular walks, though. One more thing to keep in mind is that since these dogs were bred for hunting purposes, they may not make the best housemates with cats or other small animals.

7. Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is famous for its spots. It also does great in hot temperatures. This breed has a short fur coat and doesn’t carry too much body fat.

The American Kennel Club mentions that the Dalmatians were originally bred to guard horses and carriages. They have a thin coat with no undercoat. This is why they can tolerate hot climates. But you have to take care of their exposed parts that can suffer from sunburn. These include the groin, ears, and nose.

These dogs are smart and strong-willed, so they do best with owners who can offer them active lifestyles.

8. Vizsla

The Vizsla is a hunting dog from Hungary. This breed was made for work in warm climates. It has a short coat and low body fat that helps it handle hot temperatures with ease.

This dog is very attached to its people and loves to be part of the family. It is energetic and does best with owners who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or jogging. It also loves fresh water and will often jump into a lake or stream to cool down.

9. Whippet

The Whippet is like a mini Greyhound. It is slim and fast with a short coat. These features make it perfect for hot weather conditions. It doesn’t have much body fat either.

This means there is less insulation to trap heat. Its single coat and erect ears help it stay cool. But make sure you keep it out of cold weather, as it can get chilly easily.

The Whippet is a gentle dog and loves relaxing, but it still needs short bursts of exercise.

Conclusion

If you live somewhere warm and sunny, the dog you choose matters. You want a breed that can handle the heat and does not overheat. Apart from the breeds mentioned above, there are other dogs as well that can withstand hot climates. These include the Mexican Hairless Dog, German Shorthaired Pointer, Yorkshire Terrier, Doberman Pinscher, and the Great Dane.

No matter which dog you go for, always provide them with water and plenty of shade. Avoid walking them in the middle of the day. Use cooling mats and fans inside. These dog breeds were made for the sun. With the right care, they will love their life in the heat alongside you.