Summer can be tough on our dogs, especially those not built for the heat. Whether it’s their thick coats, flat faces, or overall body structure, these dogs are more prone to heatstroke and other heat-related issues. In this list, we’re looking at 10 dog breeds that struggle the most in hot weather, so you’ll know exactly who needs extra care this season.
10. Boston Terrier
Yup, even with their short fur, Boston Terriers struggle in hot seasons. Why? This breed is brachycephalic, which means they have a short muzzle that makes it difficult to cool themselves through panting. In these hot summer months, it’s important to keep a Boston Terrier’s environment cool and well-ventilated. Also, avoid doing strenuous activities outside, especially in the hottest parts of the day.
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
While a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed isn’t brachycephalic, they still struggle in the heat. The problem with these breeds is obesity, as fat cells in their body expand on a hot day. As owners, you can help them shed a couple of pounds through indoor exercise activities. You would need to save those walks for much cooler days.
8. Siberian Husky
You know that a Siberian Husky can’t stand the heat from their looks alone. Their heavy weight and double-coat fur is just part of a much bigger problem. The issue is that heavy breeds need to keep busy and active to release their high energy. These dogs need rigorous exercise to keep them happy and healthy, and it isn’t going to work under heat conditions. Plan your activities early in the morning or late in the evening during cooler hours.
7. Boxer
If you own a Boxer, you’d know that playtime could go on forever. Boxers are also brachycephalic, and high energy levels tend to overheat them. They also struggle with breathing issues that you’d need to control during the hot summer days. Daily walks are important for their breed, but make sure that you take precautions like buying a cooling vest for them. Also, avoid walking them during the hottest parts of the day. Schedule them early in the morning or evening.
6. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs belong to short-muzzle breeds that cannot effectively cool down when they’re panting. This is dangerous for them as they can’t release their sweat, unlike humans. Consider buying them cooling mats or help reduce their temperature through access to fresh water. Like other breeds, don’t walk them during the hottest hours of the day.
5. Pekingese
While belonging to a smaller breed, Pekingese still made our list due to their fur. They have a long coat and flat face, which means that they can’t handle the hot weather. Their fur, which gives them insulation, would cause their breeds to be prone to heatstroke. Like any other breeds on the list, don’t walk them in peak hot hours of the day.
4. Japanese Chin
The flat-faced Japanese Chin is not made for the summer heat and humidity. While this breed is considered a lap dog, their brachycephalic nature won’t allow them to survive extreme heat conditions, so you should consider the weather in your place before committing to this breed. They’re much more ideal for apartments or condos since they’re a much smaller space that you can easily air-condition.
3. Pomeranian
There are two reasons why the Pomeranian breed isn’t suitable for hot weather. The obvious reason is their extra-dense coat, which is like wearing a triple jacket in the heat. While you can easily brush them to remove excess hair, they’re still stuck with fuzz. Another issue with Pomeranians is their tiny muzzle, which makes it difficult for them to pant out hot air to cool themselves down.
2. Pugs
The challenging part for the Pug during the hot season is their tendency to become obese. The fats that are visible on their body are actually an insulation to keep the heat around their core, which is a possibility for heatstroke. They’re also a flat-faced breed with an inability to pant, causing serious breathing issues among the breed.
1. Shih-Tzu
Another dog on the list that may come as a surprise is the Shih-Tzu breed. Aside from their long coats, this breed has a small nasal passage that makes it difficult for them to cool down. Yup, that makes them brachycephalic due to their flat-faced structure. Sending them to your local groomer is one of the best ways to beat the heat.