When the heat intensifies, it's not just people who suffer the consequences of high temperatures ; our pets, especially dogs, are also affected. With the arrival of summer, or in regions where warm weather is the norm, it's important to know which dog breeds tolerate the heat best and how to help our pets get through these months comfortably.
Not all dogs tolerate heat equally well , and although some have been selectively bred to adapt to warm climates, no dog is immune to the risks of dehydration or heatstroke . In this article, we analyze in depth the breeds that best withstand high temperatures , the factors that influence their resistance, and the essential care for the well-being of your furry companion.
Factors influencing heat tolerance in dogs
Heat tolerance in dogs is determined by a combination of physiological and morphological factors . While canine instinct and their ancestral adaptability help, certain traits make a difference:
- Fur: Dogs with short, fine or sparse hair (such as greyhounds or chihuahuas) tend to tolerate heat better than those with a dense, double coat (chow chow, husky, Samoyed or Saint Bernard).
- Snout: The long-snouted breeds (Doberman, Greyhound, Pointer) have a better ability to dissipate heat through breathing, unlike flat-nosed or brachycephalic dogs (bulldog, pug, Pekingese), which have more difficulty regulating body temperature.
- Size and weight: Small and light dogs They tend to suffer less from heat compared to giants or overweight people, whose metabolism and body mass make it difficult to eliminate heat.
- Coat colorLight hair reflects solar radiation better than dark hair, which provides a certain advantage in avoiding overheating.
- General health and age: Puppies and elderly dogs, as well as those suffering from chronic illnesses, They are especially sensitive to high temperatures.
Why do dogs suffer from the heat?
Dogs don't sweat like humans ; they can only eliminate heat through panting and, to a lesser extent, through the pads of their paws. Therefore, they regulate their body temperature less efficiently and are more prone to heatstroke, especially if they exercise or remain in environments without shade or ventilation. Excess fat or thick fur exacerbate the problem.
A dog's normal body temperature is between 37,5°C and 39°C , but it can rise after play or exercise. If it exceeds 40°C, the risk of heatstroke is high , and serious symptoms such as disorientation, excessive panting, vomiting, and in extreme cases, death may occur.
Dog breeds that best withstand heat
Not all breeds are equally prepared to face the summer . Below, we review those that, due to their morphology and origin, have proven to be especially resistant to the heat:
- Dobero: His reputation as a guard dog often overshadows that It is one of the breeds that best tolerates heat. Short hair, athletic build and long snout allow you to dissipate heat easily. You should always have water and shade. Learn about other breeds that don't adapt well to air travel..
- Greyhound and Italian Greyhound: Of Spanish and African descent, greyhounds and sighthounds they have a thin coat and a light body, with an elongated snout that helps regulate temperature. They can enjoy the heat, always with caution.
- Chihuahua: Despite its small size, It is adapted to warm climates. Its sparse fur and low weight They help prevent overheating. Be careful with their pads, which are delicate and can burn on hot asphalt.
- Jack russell terrier: Very energetic and used to running outdoors, rough, short hair It facilitates adaptation to heat, although it is advisable to limit exercise during the hottest hours.
- Rottweiler: Although it may look robust, its protective outer layer It helps keep him dry and insulated from the heat. It's essential that he always has water and doesn't expose him to too much sun.
- Beagle: With his short and tough coat, adapts well to different climates. It is sociable and hardy, but strenuous exercise during daylight hours should be avoided.
- Pointer, Great Dane and Pinscher: Present long snouts and short hair, making them suitable for warm climates.
- american staffordshire terrier: Thanks to your tough skin and its ability to adapt to both cold and heat, it is an option to consider in hot environments, always under surveillance on the hottest days.
- chinese crestedSome specimens have almost no hair, which allows them to withstand high temperatures well.
- Argentine Dogo: Its short white fur It helps to manage heat better, but its size requires caution to avoid excessive exposure to the sun.
Breeds adapted to heat due to their origin
Breeds originating from hot climates have developed a natural adaptation . Among them are:
- Basenjic: Native to central Africa, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures.
- rhodesian ridgeback (Rhodesian Ridgeback): Originating from South Africa, adapted to arid and hot climates.
- Canary hound y Majorero dog: From the Canary Islands, accustomed to a dry and warm climate.
- Xoloitzcuintle: Mexican Aztec dog, hairless and heat resistant.
- Australian Shepherd y australian kelpie: Bred in arid Australian environments, with good heat tolerance.
Dogs that tolerate heat the worst and why
Some breeds are not adapted to high temperatures and can suffer dangerously in summer . Among them, dogs from cold climates and brachycephalic breeds are the most vulnerable.
- chow chow: Thick, double-coated fur, of Asian origin, adapted to cold climates. Excessive heat can seriously affect them.
- Siberian husky, Samoyed, St. Bernard y Border Collie: Accustomed to low temperatures and mountain environments, they suffer in hot climates.
- Brachycephalic (bulldog, pug, pekingese, shih tzu): Present short snout and limited airway which make heat dissipation difficult, increasing the risk of heat stroke.
- Dogs with a lot of hair: Like Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Pomeranians, which have thick, dense coats, they are very vulnerable.
Tips to protect your dog from the heat
- Avoid walking or exercising during the central hours of the day (12:00-18:00), especially in summer.
- Always provide fresh water and access to shaded areas.
- Never leave your dog alone in the car., not even for a few minutes, as the temperature can rise dangerously in a short time.
- Refreshes the dog's body wetting his head, legs, neck and abdomen occasionally.
- In breeds with delicate pads, like the chihuahua or greyhound, take care of their paws to avoid burns on the hot asphalt.
- Prevents hairy dogs from being clipped too closeTheir fur protects them from both heat and solar radiation.
- Control your pet's weightObese dogs experience more difficulties in the heat.
- Special attention to the elderly and puppies: They are less efficient at regulating their temperature and require additional care.
- If your dog shows heat stroke symptoms (extreme panting, vomiting, weakness, disorientation), go to the vet urgently.
Expanded list of heat-resistant breeds
- Dobero
- Spanish Greyhound and Italian Greyhound
- Chihuahua
- Jack russell terrier
- Rottweiler
- Beagle
- Pointer
- Great Dane
- pinscher
- Basenjic
- rhodesian ridgeback
- chinese crested dog
- Argentine Dogo
- american staffordshire terrier
- Canary hound
- Majorero dog
- Australian Shepherd
- australian kelpie
- Xoloitzcuintle
- American Foxhound
- Burgos Pointer
