As global temperatures continue to rise, scientists are warning that some dog breeds may struggle more than others to cope with the changing climate. Dogs with thick coats, short snouts, or large body sizes are especially vulnerable to heat stress, dehydration, and respiratory strain.
Recent studies have highlighted how climate change isn’t just an environmental issue. It’s an animal welfare concern too. Dogs rely on humans to regulate their exposure to heat, and without careful management, even a short walk on a warm day can put them at risk.
Understanding which breeds are more sensitive helps owners take steps to protect them through hydration, shade, and timing outdoor activities wisely. Awareness and prevention can make all the difference as our planet continues to warm.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Heat tolerance varies by breed, health, and age. Always consult a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of overheating or distress in warm weather.
1. Bulldog
Bulldogs have flat faces that make breathing difficult, especially when temperatures climb. Their shortened airways cannot cool air efficiently before it reaches their lungs, which puts them at serious risk during warm months.
These stocky pups also carry extra weight, making their bodies work harder to stay cool. Owners should keep bulldogs indoors during peak heat hours and always provide plenty of fresh water.
Even short walks on hot pavement can cause overheating. Watch for excessive drooling, heavy panting, or stumbling as warning signs that your bulldog needs immediate cooling.
2. Pug
With their adorable squished faces comes a dangerous downside for pugs in warmer climates. Their compact nasal passages struggle to regulate body temperature, leaving them vulnerable to heatstroke even during mild weather.
Pugs cannot pant effectively like other breeds, which is their primary cooling mechanism. This biological limitation means they overheat faster than dogs with longer snouts.
Air conditioning becomes essential for pug owners living in hot regions. Never leave these dogs in cars, even with windows cracked. Consider cooling vests and frozen treats to help them beat the heat safely.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs share the same breathing challenges as their English cousins, making them equally susceptible to climate stress. Their brachycephalic skulls restrict airflow, creating serious problems when temperatures rise above comfortable levels.
These compact dogs gained popularity recently, but many new owners underestimate their heat sensitivity. Frenchies can develop respiratory distress quickly, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Morning and evening walks work best for this breed during summer months. Avoid strenuous exercise altogether on humid days. Investing in cooling mats and keeping indoor spaces temperature-controlled can prevent dangerous overheating episodes.
4. Shih Tzu
Originally bred in Tibetan monasteries, Shih Tzus adapted to cooler mountain climates rather than sweltering heat. Their luxurious double coats trap warmth close to their skin, creating discomfort when temperatures soar.
Combined with their shortened muzzles, these small dogs face double trouble during hot seasons. Regular grooming becomes crucial, with many owners opting for shorter summer cuts to help their pets stay comfortable.
Keep your Shih Tzu well-hydrated and limit outdoor time during midday heat. Their small size means they can overheat rapidly. Watch for signs like excessive panting or reluctance to move around.
5. Chow Chow
That magnificent lion-like mane comes with serious drawbacks for Chow Chows living in warm climates. Their incredibly dense double coat was perfect for cold Chinese winters but becomes a heavy burden during summer months.
These independent dogs also have somewhat restricted airways, adding another layer of vulnerability to heat stress. Their thick neck ruff traps heat around vital areas, making cooling down more challenging.
Professional grooming helps manage their coat without damaging its protective qualities. Never shave a Chow Chow completely, as their fur also protects against sunburn. Provide shaded outdoor areas and constant access to cool water.
6. Pekingese
Ancient Chinese royalty kept Pekingese as palace companions, not outdoor adventure buddies. Their flat faces and long coats make them particularly ill-suited for hot weather or intense physical activity in warm conditions.
These small dogs tire quickly and can develop breathing problems when stressed by heat. Their low-to-ground build also means they absorb heat from hot surfaces more readily than taller breeds.
Air conditioning is practically mandatory for Pekingese owners in warmer regions. Carry them across hot pavement and keep walks brief during warm weather. Their respiratory systems simply were not designed for heat management.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Despite their moderate coat length, Cavaliers face climate challenges due to their small size and certain health predispositions. Many of these sweet-natured dogs develop heart conditions that worsen with heat stress and humidity.
Their cardiovascular vulnerabilities mean temperature regulation becomes harder as they age. Heat places extra strain on already compromised hearts, creating potentially dangerous situations during summer months.
Regular veterinary checkups help monitor heart health in this breed. Keep exercise gentle and always in cooler parts of the day. Cavaliers love being close to their people, so they will happily relax indoors during hot weather.
8. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers earned the nickname American Gentleman for their tuxedo markings, but their flat faces tell a different story about heat tolerance. These energetic little dogs want to play constantly, yet their shortened airways make vigorous activity risky in warm weather.
Their enthusiasm often exceeds their physical limitations during hot days. Owners must monitor activity levels carefully because Bostons will not always stop when they should.
Provide plenty of breaks during playtime and keep water accessible at all times. Indoor games work better than outdoor fetch during summer. Their short coats offer no sun protection, so limit direct sun exposure.
9. Boxer
Boxers combine high energy levels with brachycephalic features, creating a perfect storm for heat-related problems. These athletic dogs love running and playing, but their shortened muzzles cannot efficiently cool the air they breathe during intense exercise.
Their muscular bodies generate significant heat during activity, overwhelming their already compromised cooling systems. Boxers can go from playful to dangerously overheated in minutes on hot days.
Schedule exercise for early morning or late evening when temperatures drop. Swimming provides excellent low-impact exercise that keeps them cool. Always watch for signs of distress and be prepared to cool them down immediately if needed.
10. Saint Bernard
Swiss Alps rescue work prepared Saint Bernards for snow and cold, not scorching summers. Their massive size and thick coats make them highly vulnerable to overheating, even in moderately warm weather that other breeds tolerate easily.
These gentle giants produce tremendous body heat simply from their size and mass. Their heavy coats insulate them against cold but trap dangerous amounts of heat during warmer months.
Saint Bernards need air-conditioned environments during summer and should never exercise in heat. Provide multiple water stations throughout your home. Consider moving to cooler climates if you live somewhere with long, hot summers and own this breed.
11. Newfoundland
Water rescue dogs from cold Canadian waters, Newfoundlands possess incredibly thick, water-resistant coats designed for icy ocean conditions. This same coat becomes a liability in warm climates, trapping heat and making temperature regulation nearly impossible.
Their enormous size compounds the problem, as larger bodies generate and retain more heat. Even though they love water, swimming alone cannot always prevent overheating in hot weather.
These dogs thrive in cooler climates and struggle significantly in heat and humidity. Provide constant access to shade, water, and preferably a kiddie pool for cooling off. Limit outdoor time during warm weather to absolute necessities only.
12. Alaskan Malamute
Bred to haul heavy sleds across frozen Arctic tundra, Malamutes wear some of the thickest coats in the canine world. Their dense double coats insulate against temperatures far below freezing but create serious problems anywhere remotely warm.
These powerful working dogs were never meant for mild climates, let alone hot ones. Heat stress can develop quickly, even during spring or fall in temperate regions.
Malamutes belong in cold climates where they can thrive naturally. If you live somewhere warm, reconsider this breed entirely. For existing owners, air conditioning, minimal outdoor time, and constant vigilance become essential for their survival during warmer months.
13. Siberian Husky
Siberian nomads developed Huskies to run for miles in subzero temperatures, not lounge in summer heat. Their thick double coats and efficient metabolism suited Arctic conditions perfectly but make them highly susceptible to heat stress in warmer climates.
Many people adopt Huskies without considering their climate needs, leading to serious welfare concerns. These dogs pant excessively and seek cool spots constantly when temperatures rise above their comfort zone.
Responsible ownership means providing climate-controlled environments and avoiding midday activities during warm months. Early morning or late evening exercise works best. Consider whether your climate truly suits this breed before bringing one home.
