Dog Breeds for Hot Climates: What to Know

If you live somewhere hot — Pakistan, India, the Gulf or the southern US — the breed you choose makes a real difference to how comfortable your dog will be for half the year. Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, so lean dogs with short coats and longer noses tend to manage better. Flat-faced breeds and thick-coated northern breeds need much more care.

How dogs cope with heat

Dogs can't sweat the way people do. They lose heat mostly by panting, with a little through their paw pads. Anything that makes panting less efficient or traps heat raises the risk of overheating:

• A short, flat face, which narrows the airways.
• A thick double coat designed for snow.
• Extra body weight.
• Very young or old age, heart or breathing problems.
• High humidity, which makes panting less effective — a big factor in coastal cities and monsoon seasons.

Traits that tend to cope better

• Short, single-layer coats.
• Lean, athletic builds with long legs.
• Normal-length muzzles.
• Lighter coat colours, which absorb less heat in direct sun.

Breeds and types that often manage heat better include:

• Local "desi" or pariah-type dogs — street and village dogs in South Asia, such as the Indian pariah dog, have adapted to the climate over many generations and make excellent, hardy companions. Adopting one from a local rescue is a great option.
• Sighthounds from hot regions — such as the Saluki, which has a long history in the Middle East.
• Basenjis and Pharaoh Hounds — lean, short-coated breeds from warm climates.
• Many short-coated, medium-sized mixed breeds.

Even these dogs can get heatstroke. Good management matters more than breed.

Breeds to be careful with

Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds

Pugs, French and English Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Pekingese and Boxers can be prone to breathing difficulties that make cooling down much harder. They are at higher risk of heatstroke, sometimes even on a warm walk. If you have one, keep exercise very short in summer and give them a cool indoor space.

Thick double coats

Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, Saint Bernards and Newfoundlands were bred for cold climates. They can live in hot countries only with air conditioning, exercise at the coolest times and close attention. Our Siberian Husky guide explains why this is a big commitment.

Heat-safety basics

• Walk at dawn and after sunset. Avoid midday sun, even for a quick toilet trip if you can.
• Test the ground. Hold the back of your hand on pavement or sand for seven seconds — if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for paws.
• Always provide shade and fresh water, indoors and out. Take water on walks.
• Never leave a dog in a parked car, even with the windows open or for a few minutes.
• Plan for power cuts. If you rely on fans or air conditioning, know where your dog's coolest spot is when the power goes.
• Avoid hard exercise on hot days. Swap long walks for sniffing games and indoor training.
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight.

Signs of heatstroke

Heatstroke can develop quickly and can be fatal. Watch for:

• Heavy, noisy panting and drooling.
• Bright red, dark or pale gums and tongue.
• Restlessness, then weakness, wobbliness or confusion.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Collapse or seizures.

Choosing a dog for a hot climate

If you haven't chosen a dog yet, think about the climate as seriously as size or energy. A local rescue dog or a lean, short-coated breed will usually be far more comfortable than a Husky or a flat-faced breed. If you already have a dog that struggles in the heat, a few changes to your routine can keep them safe and comfortable.