Did you know that certain dog breeds are naturally equipped to handle hot climates? For instance, the Chihuahua, originating from Mexico’s desert regions, thrives in warm weather due to its thin coat and petite size. Similarly, the Basenji, often referred to as the “barkless dog,” hails from Central Africa and is well-suited for hot, humid climates.
These breeds have adapted over time to stay comfortable in high temperatures, making them ideal companions for those living in warmer regions. While some breeds thrive in the snow, others were practically designed for sunshine, lounging under palm trees, and enjoying the summer breeze. If you live in a hot climate or just love warm-weather adventures, choosing a dog that can handle the heat is essential.
If you’re looking for a canine companion who won’t melt in the summer sun, you’re in the right place! Here are some of the best dog breeds that tolerate hot weather and thrive in it—from sleek sighthounds to pint-sized pups with big personalities.
Best Dog Breeds for Hot Weather
1. Italian Greyhound
When it comes to handling hot weather, the Italian Greyhound is practically built for it.
With a sleek, ultra-thin coat and a lightweight, aerodynamic body, this breed stays cool even in the warmest climates. Unlike fluffy breeds that trap heat, they have barely any fur to retain warmth, making them natural sun-lovers.
These petite sighthounds have been around for over 2,000 years, often depicted in ancient Mediterranean art lounging in the sun.
They thrive in warm temperatures and love basking in the heat—so much so that you’ll often find them curled up in a sunny spot, soaking in the warmth like a tiny sunbather.
However, their lack of body fat means they can get cold easily, so when temperatures drop, they’ll need cozy sweaters to compensate.
These dogs are ideal companions for warm-weather households. They love short bursts of high-speed zoomies but are just as happy being couch potatoes. Just remember to protect their delicate skin with sunscreen, as their thin coats make them more susceptible to sunburn!
2. Whippet
The Whippet is another heat-resistant sighthound, known for its sleek build and minimal coat.
Originally bred in England for racing, Whippets have the perfect physique for warm climates—lean, muscular, and designed for speed.
Their short fur doesn’t trap heat, and their long legs help keep them cool by increasing airflow around their bodies. Whippets tolerate heat with ease, often preferring to stretch out in the sun rather than seek shade.
However, they should always have access to water and a cool place to rest after exercise, as they’re more heat-tolerant than heat-proof.
One of the biggest perks of having a Whippet in burning climates is their low-maintenance coat. They don’t shed excessively, require minimal grooming, and rarely develop that “doggy odor.” If you want a fast, affectionate, and heat-friendly companion, the Whippet is a fantastic choice!
3. Papillon
Don’t let the fluffy butterfly ears fool you—the Papillon is surprisingly well-suited for places where temperatures rise easily!
Their single-layer coat is much lighter than it looks, allowing for excellent air circulation that helps them stay cool even in warm temperatures.
Papillons are small but full of energy, making them ideal for active owners who enjoy warm-weather adventures. Whether it’s playing in the park or running agility courses, this little breed thrives in warmer climates as long as they have access to shade and water.
Their large ears also play a role in heat regulation, allowing excess body heat to dissipate efficiently.
One important thing to remember is that Papillons are highly social and thrive indoors with their families. They love warm temperatures, but they’re not outdoor dogs—so if you live in a warm climate, ensure they have plenty of indoor cooling options after their playtime in the sun during hot days.
4. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, native to Mexico, is one of the best breeds for hot climates.
These tiny dogs were bred in warm, desert-like environments, making them naturally adaptable to high temperatures. Their short coat, small body, and high-energy nature make them perfect for warm climates.
Chihuahuas don’t struggle in the heat—though they should still have plenty of water and shade during outdoor activities.
Because of their compact size, they don’t overheat as quickly as larger breeds, allowing them to be active without overheating.
One thing to watch out for? Sunburn!
Chihuahuas, especially those with lighter coats, are prone to sunburn on their ears and noses. A little pet-safe sunscreen can help keep their skin protected while they strut their stuff in the sunshine.
5. Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is another hot-weather champ, thanks to its short, sleek coat and athletic build.
PetMD says they were bred for hunting and rat-catching. This medium-sized dog has a naturally high metabolism that keeps it active and alert, even in warm temperatures.
Manchester Terriers have thin, close-fitting coats that don’t trap heat, allowing them to stay cool even when running around outdoors.
Their slender frame and long legs also contribute to better airflow, preventing overheating. However, like many short-haired breeds, they should be protected from intense sun exposure to avoid sunburn.
This breed is perfect for owners who love outdoor activities, as Manchester Terriers are energetic, intelligent, and always ready for an adventure. Just be sure to keep them hydrated and provide shady spots for them to rest after playtime.
6. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is the ultimate hot-weather dog, especially the hairless variety.
With bare skin and only a tuft of fur on its head, tail, and feet, this breed doesn’t trap heat and is incredibly comfortable in warm climates. Britannica calls them slender dogs.
While not a large breed dog, this dog is worth noting for its adaptability to hot weather, despite being a small breed.
Because they lack an insulating coat, these athletic dogs prefer warmth and thrive in tropical and desert-like environments. However, their exposed skin makes them prone to sunburn, so pet-safe sunscreen is a must when outdoors.
These quirky, affectionate dogs are perfect for owners in hot regions who want a unique-looking companion with minimal shedding. Whether lounging indoors or strutting through a sunny park, the Chinese Crested embodies summer-loving energy!
7. Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier may be small, but this feisty little breed is incredibly resilient—especially when it comes to handling hot temperatures.
Originally bred in Australia, where temperatures can soar to extreme highs, this terrier was developed to be a hardy working dog that could withstand both hot and dry conditions. Unlike many other terriers, the Australian Terrier has a coarse, weather-resistant double coat that provides insulation against both heat and cold.
Despite having a double coat, the Australian Terrier’s fur is not overly thick or dense, allowing for adequate air circulation to help regulate body temperature. Their coat also acts as a natural barrier against the sun, reducing the risk of sunburn—a common concern for short-haired breeds.
However, regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and maintain proper airflow through their wiry fur, especially in hotter climates.
Known for their playful, alert, and affectionate nature, Australian Terriers are fantastic companions for active owners living in warm regions. They thrive in outdoor adventures but should always have access to cool, shaded areas and fresh water to prevent heat exhaustion.
If you’re looking for a small but tough breed that can handle the heat while keeping up with an energetic lifestyle, the Australian Terrier is an excellent choice!
Conclusion
Choosing a dog breed that thrives in hot weather ensures they’ll stay comfortable and active year-round. These breeds are built for warmth and adventure, from the graceful Italian Greyhound to the sun-loving Chihuahua. The Australian cattle dog, German shorthaired pointer, Ibizan hound, Border collies, American water spaniels, and Pharaoh hound are also some dogs that can tolerate hot temperatures.
If you live in a warm climate, consider a dog with a short coat, lean body mass, and heat-adaptive traits. And while these breeds handle heat better than most, they always provide fresh water, shade, and rest breaks to keep them happy and healthy.
No matter which hot-weather-friendly breed you choose, one thing is certain—you’ll have a loyal, loving companion who’s always ready to soak up the sun with you!
