No matter how strong certain dog breeds are, most need certain kinds of climates to thrive due to their coat types and origins. If you live in a hot climate and want a dog that won’t burn out after a few walks outdoors, you should look for breeds that are literally made for the sunny skies.
Living in a warm climate has its challenges, and whether it’s you or your dog, proper protection against heat strokes and UV rays is crucial. Having a hot weather-friendly dog can make life way more fun and joyful, but it’s also a must to know how to keep your pup safe and healthy.
If you are wondering whether or not your canine is ideal for scorching climates, our article will help you find out.
Best Dependable Dog Breeds for Hot Climates
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are bouncy dogs with big, round eyes and perky ears that you can’t take your eyes off. These adorable pups are very loyal in nature and bond deeply with their owners. They make amazing hot-weather dogs due to their smooth, short coat.
Chihuahuas originated from Mexico’s warm environment and can live happily by your side in similar climates. These unique dogs have either an apple or deer-shaped head, which makes them stand out, along with their compact build.
Despite their size, Chihuahuas are brave and spirited in nature and don’t get intimidated easily. They can become territorial and clingy to their pet parents. Early training will help them warm up to other pets and people more.
Due to their short hair, they’re easy to groom; some quick brushing and bathing is enough for these pups.
2. Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are hard-working herding dogs and were bred from some cattle dog breeds from England and the Australian wild “Dingoes”. This combination resulted in a heat-resistant and resilient breed that could stay upbeat in the tough climate of Australia.
Also called blue or red heeler, Australian Cattle Dogs are athletic and agile dogs that love outdoor activities, even in warm weather. They’re the best dog breed for active families and individual owners who can fulfill their exercise needs.
These canines love to have a job to do, and perform amazingly in dog sports like agility and running as well. They live to please their owners and respond amazingly to positive reinforcement training.
3. Ibizan Hound
Ibizan hounds’ appearance is as striking and unique as their name, and it’s impossible to confuse them with any other dog. These impressively tall and lean dogs were originally bred in the Spanish Balearic Islands as rabbit coursers.
There’s something graceful and regal about the way this dog stands, with its perky ears and pointy tail enhancing its alert look. The American Kennel Club mentions that Ibizan’s elegance has been described as “deer-like”.
Their origin is tied by some to Egyptian hounds that traveled with Phoenician traders, so warmer climates are something they’re well acquainted with. Their coats have two varieties: smooth and wiry. In both cases, regular grooming is a good idea.
They’re surprisingly family-oriented and even-tempered dogs. Training them can be a joy for their owners as they are eager to please and outgoing pups.
4. Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested are adorable small dogs that come in both hairless and coated varieties. The hairless crested sometimes have a tuft of silky hair on their heads that makes them look too cute. They can handle hot temperatures well, though direct sunlight might be harmful for the hairless Crested.
Chinese Crested is a toy dog breed with a very spunky but loyal nature. These little dogs are people pleasers and have a tendency to detect their pet parents’ emotions and moods. They will happily be couch potatoes with you, but also love playing and having fun.
If your Chinese Crested is hairless, make sure to get a good sunscreen and be generous with applying it to their bodies. If you are taking them on a walk on a hot day, watch out for warning signs of heat exhaustion (like excessive panting), and keep a bottle of fresh water with you.
Scheduling your outdoor activities in early morning or late evening will save your Crested from being exposed to intense sunlight.
5. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds have an impressive, sleek build, with long legs, a lean tail, and a long muzzle. They make lovable couch dogs, but also enjoy playing and outdoor activities. They’re a smaller version of the Greyhound and have an amazing athletic build.
Due to their short hair, Italian Greyhounds can’t stay so peachy in cold climates. While these short-haired dogs might struggle in cold weather, they can stay pretty energetic and happy in high temperatures. This doesn’t mean they’re super-dogs and cannot face heat stress; keep them in air conditioning when appropriate.
This breed is loved for its comical personality and prefers to stay close to its humans. They have a fondness for chasing; as they’re fast and agile, they’ll rush after any moving prey in sight if not properly trained.
Dog owners who tend to stay outdoors with their dogs should make sure their pup gets breaks under adequate shade. It’s also a good idea to keep a water cooler with you if you are going to be outside for a long period of time.
6. Whippet
Whippets are very sensitive and friendly dogs that love to cuddle with their pet owners. While they originated from English, they adapt to hot climates pretty well due to their short coat and large noses.
Whippets are a calm and adaptable breed that loves to form a bond with their human family members of all age groups. They tend to be a little shy with strangers and need early socialization training to be able to deal with unfamiliar people around them.
Due to their thin coat, they’re easy to groom and just need a quick brushing session and bathing. Regular bathing during heat waves is a good idea to help them stay cool.
7. Greyhound
The Greyhound is a big dog breed originating from Egypt. These hound dogs have an impressive, muscled-up, tall, and lean build, a short, smooth coat, and a deep chest. With these traits and owing to their origin, they can handle heat pretty well.
Greyhound is known as the fastest dogs, with speeds ranging up to 45 miles per hour. These enduring dogs provide dog owners living in hot climates with a dedicated and unwavering companionship due to their heat tolerance.
Despite being athletic dogs, Greyhounds love their lazy moments, lounging on the floor next to you or on the sofa. It’s always a good idea to stay indoors with your pup during days with extreme heat.
Greyhounds are a highly intelligent breed and enjoy mental stimulation games like puzzles. They respond well to positive reinforcement, but harsh treatment does not sit well with them.
Conclusion
While there are many great dog breeds that live amazingly in warm climates, it’s always important to keep them (and yourself) hydrated when it’s too hot. A dog’s coat is a huge factor in determining what kind of environment they can handle. Also, take care of your pup if it’s short-nosed and flat-faced; this can make them struggle when exposed to hot air.
