Endurance is sometimes tested by regions; however, certain furry friends thrive in deserts and tropics seamlessly, while other falters. They remind us about the fact that nature favours the survival who are capable of adaptation.
When the sun blazes and the days are long, not every dog can handle the heat, but some are born for it.
Breeds from the hot regions have evolved remarkable attributes like a thin coat, an agile body, and metabolism to excel in high temperatures. This makes them rare, and they are often overlooked when compared to cold-climate dogs.
Let’s explore the heritage of these breeds that bring strength and grace even in warm weather.
Rare Dog Breeds Built for Warm Climates
1. Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback was originally bred by farmers for guardianship in Thailand. It is also known by another name, called the Cobra-killing dog, which kills the snakes to protect the livestock. Native to its origin only, this protective dog breed is a rare one and thrives in hot weather.
This muscular dog has a strong body that is covered with a dense coat with variant colours like blue, black, red, and yellow. Their dark almond eyes hold an expression of alertness, and serve them best in tropical regions.
Their short coat needs minimal grooming, but they are not suitable for cold weather, as they lack a dense undercoat that protects in freezing temperatures.
They are overprotective dogs and have strong prey drive, which makes early socialization and obedience training vital. To avoid the destructive behaviours of the Thai Ridgeback, owners should provide them with proper physical and mental stimulation.
These agile dogs are more suited to active families who have prior experience of handling this kind of dog breed.
2. Pharaoh Hound
The first appearance of the Pharaoh Hound was recorded 5000 years ago. These dogs are well-suited for activity in extreme temperatures since they were developed to hunt gazelles in Egypt.
However, these working dogs need good exercise, so make sure you are giving them sufficient physical activity, even if it’s extreme heat outside.
Fun Fact: These unique dogs hold a mystic allure and are blessed with an ability to blush and smile, says PetMD. These sight hounds are great family pets due to their sociable and friendly nature. Lean bodies, erect ears, and short hair help these dogs to regulate their body temperature.
But, whether it’s ancient Egypt or Malta, Pharaoh Hounds excel in hot weather.
Pharaoh Hounds are extremely playful and thrive in regular physical activities, so they are well-suited to active pet parents. They get along well with children and other dogs, but their high prey drive makes them chase after small animals like cats.
Patient and consistent training with positive reinforcement methods can help these independent dogs.
3. Perro de Presa Canario
The big, strong Perro de Presa Canario breed thrives in the warm climate of the Canary Islands, from where it originates. Being robust and muscular, it was traditionally used as a guard dog, and in dog fighting as well.
The features that cope well in hot weather include a short coat and the ability to withstand high temperatures.
The large and powerful Perro de Presa Canario is famous for its confidence and strong-willed nature. With early socialization, these dogs exhibit a calm and patient aura in the presence of children.
These energetic dogs need ample space in secure yards and moderate exercise for a healthy and happy lifestyle. They enjoy play sessions and daily walks of at least an hour. Pet parents must ensure a calm environment with predictable routines for the well-being of these sensitive dogs.
4. Azawakh
Azawakh comes from the Saharan Desert’s valley, Azawakh, the reason behind the name of this ancient hunting sighthound. The slim body, long legs, and smooth short coat help them cope with hot climates.
They do not like to be in rain or cold weather, due to low body fat, so pet parents living in chilly areas should avoid adopting them.
Native to a hot Sahel region of Africa, Azawakh is famous for its intelligence, agility, and active nature. They happily enjoy outdoor exercise as well as snoozing indoors. Yet, to burn off their high energy levels, they need ample running, says the AKC.
These loyal dogs have strong guarding instincts and are protective of their family and territory. Azawakh has a perceptive and sensitive nature, and its temperament depends on the company they keep and where they are living.
It is advised that, owing to strong prey drive, these dogs should always be kept on leash or in a fenced yard.
5. Canaan Dog
It has been discovered that the Canaan dog has been living with nomadic people in the desert since biblical times. With time, these dogs were used as guarding and herding dogs, but many of them preferred to live in deserted areas under scorching sunlight, according to Britannica.
Currently, this rare breed is the national dog of Israel.
Canaan dogs are generally hardy and intelligent. Their adaptation to dry and warm weather increases their trait of heat tolerance. The dense moderate coat helps them to withstand heat exhaustion and thrive in hot climates.
These dedicated companions demand regular grooming and exercise. The socialized Canaan dogs are protective around their families and reserved around strangers. Being smart dogs, they are trainable and excel in short but interactive sessions.
6. Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hound makes the ideal choice for hot climates due to its short coat, large ears, and lanky build. They were developed in Italy’s warm Balearic Islands, thus their bodies are well-suited to thrive in summer months.
Their ancestors were from Egypt, and they were used to hunting the prey under the hot sun, a reason for managing soaring heat.
Ibizans are known for their gentle, family-oriented, and friendly nature. They get along well with children and other pets. These active dogs are the perfect choice for families who love energetic companions even in a hot climate.
Regular exercise and outdoor activities are the basic demands of an Ibizan Hound’s healthy life. They are generally healthy dogs, but are prone to some health issues like hip dysplasia or congenital deafness. Do you know that this dog breed has a deer-like grace, says the AKC.
7. Basenji
Have you ever imagined a dog without any barking ability? Yes, the Basenji is the one with a unique larynx. Moreover, nature has blessed them with a short coat and a lean body to manage the warm weather of the summer months.
Basenji enjoys sunbasking and outdoor play sessions even during hot days.
Highly intelligent and energetic Basenjis are prone to mischief due to their strong sense of smell and high jumping ability. To keep them out of trouble, physical and mental stimulation is important. These active dogs need at least an hour of exercise daily, along with play sessions.
This low-maintenance dog breed needs occasional brushing of its coat and has cat-like grooming habits. Basenji responds well to positive reinforcement methods.
As long as Basenjis are kept active, trained, and socialized at a young age, they make affectionate family pets for those who live in hot climates.
Conclusion
Centuries ago, dogs had been learning to endure heat and shifting terrains with the civilization that thrived under relentless suns. The breeds that we have discussed not only have the ability to manage the heat but also have intelligence and loyalty, and do not leave the inhabitants of warm areas alone.
There are some more in this list, like: Australian Cattle Dog, Italian Greyhound, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Chihuahua.
