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15 Best Dogs for Hot Weather

“dalmatian on the beach” by calvinfix is licensed under CC BY 2.0

If you live in a warm or tropical climate, choosing a dog that can handle the heat is important. Some breeds are naturally built for hot weather, thanks to their short coats, lean bodies, or origins in warm regions. Let’s take a look at 15 breeds that love sunny climates and how to care for them in the heat.

Basenji

“Basenji Profile (loosercrop)” by fugzu is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Originally bred in Central Africa as hunting dogs, Basenjis are highly adapted to hot climates. Their short, fine coat helps them stay cool, while their slim, muscular build prevents overheating. Basenjis are also known for their energy and independence. However, they still need protection from extreme heat and direct sunlight. 

Chihuahua

Cute black Chihuahua dog relaxing on a bed with yellow pillows, tongue out.
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

Hailing from Mexico, Chihuahuas are built for warm weather. Their small size allows them to regulate heat better, and their short coats are perfect for sunny environments. They love basking in the sun, but their tiny bodies can overheat quickly if they’re exposed for too long. Monitor them during outdoor activities and provide plenty of hydration and a cool resting spot.

Afghan Hound

“Afghan Hound blond portrait” by Flickr user Esparta is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Despite their long, flowing coats, Afghan Hounds are surprisingly well-suited to hot weather. Their coat acts as insulation, protecting them from both heat and sunburn. This breed originates from the deserts of Afghanistan, where they were used for hunting in harsh climates. However, regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat and prevent overheating.

Dalmatian

a black and white dog with its tongue out
Photo by Anna Kumpan on Unsplash

With their beautiful coats and history as carriage dogs in Croatia, Dalmatians are excellent in warmer climates. Their short hair and muscular build help them stay cool, even during high-energy activities. They’re active and playful, so regular exercise in the cooler parts of the day (morning or evening) is ideal. Always make sure they have access to water and shade after playtime to cool down.

Greyhound

“File:Italian Greyhound standing gray.jpg” by christina is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Greyhounds are built for speed and efficiency, with lean bodies and short coats that make them ideal for hot weather. These big pups don’t carry much body fat, allowing them to handle heat more effectively. Originally bred for hunting in warm regions, Greyhounds are calm and affectionate. They do best with moderate exercise and a comfy, cool place to relax afterward.

Whippet

Stylish whippet dog in a red jacket lying on a lush grass field.
Photo by Ion Ceban @ionelceban on Pexels

Closely related to Greyhounds, Whippets share the same lean build and short coat, making them excellent for warm climates. Their calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs make them adaptable to many lifestyles. Whippets love to sprint, so it’s important to schedule playtime in the cooler parts of the day. Indoors, they’ll happily nap in the shade or by a fan.

Vizsla

“Magyar Vizsla ‘Fanta” by blumenbiene is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Vizsla, a Hungarian hunting breed, has a short, smooth coat that helps them thrive in warm weather. They are very active and require plenty of exercise, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. While they handle heat well, hydration and breaks in the shade are crucial during long outings to keep them cool and comfortable.

Ibizan Hound

“Ibizan Hound” by In Memoriam: me’nthedogs is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Originally from the Balearic Islands off Spain’s coast, Ibizan Hounds are naturally equipped for hot, sunny environments. Their lean build, large ears (which help release heat), and short coat make them highly adaptable to warm climates. These beautiful dogs are active and enjoy running, but they’re also content lounging in a shady spot after exercise.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

“Rhodesian Ridgeback” by haroldmeerveld is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Bred in Africa to hunt lions, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are built to handle intense heat. Their short, sleek coat and strongphysique make them excellent companions for warm climates. Despite their hunting origins, they are calm and affectionate dogs. They love exercise but need shade and water breaks during activity to prevent overheating.

Pharaoh Hound

“Harlow the Pharaoh Hound” by brentsphotos is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

With origins in the Mediterranean, the Pharaoh Hound is a natural in hot climates. Their short, fine coat and lean, athletic build make them ideal for sunny environments. Pharaoh Hounds are playful, affectionate, and energetic. Be mindful of their sensitive skin—apply dog-safe sunscreen to exposed areas, such as their nose, if they’re outside for extended periods.

Beagle

A brown and white dog laying on top of a couch
Photo by Barnabas Davoti on Unsplash

Beagles, originally bred for hunting in England, are surprisingly good at adapting to warmer climates. Their short, dense coat and medium build allow them to regulate body temperature efficiently. Beagles love exploring and sniffing, so keeping them hydrated and scheduling walks during cooler times of the day is key to their comfort.

Australian Cattle Dog

“Australian Cattle Dog Chessie” by Eva Holderegger Walser, Switzerland is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5

Despite their name, Australian Cattle Dogs are highly adaptable and can handle warm climates well. They were bred to work in the harsh conditions of Australia, herding cattle under the sun. Their short, weather-resistant coat protects them from extreme heat, but they’ll still need access to water and shade during outdoor activities.

Thai Ridgeback

“Thai ridgeback t444” by Pleple2000 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

A rare breed from Thailand, the Thai Ridgeback is naturally suited to tropical weather. Their short coat and agile build make them perfect for hot, humid climates. They are highly independent and active, so they need regular exercise and a safe, shady area to cool off. This breed thrives in environments similar to its native homeland.

Boxer

“boxer-dog-76573_1280” by localpups is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Boxers are known for their short coat and muscular build, which make them well-suited to warmer weather. They’re energetic and playful, so it’s important to ensure they stay hydrated during outdoor activities. Boxers have short muzzles, so avoid intense exercise during extreme heat to prevent breathing difficulties.

Indian Pariah Dog

“Indian Pariah Dog in sleeping Posture” by JatinPandey310 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Native to India, the Indian Pariah Dog has evolved to thrive in hot and humid climates. Their short coat, lean build, and low-maintenance grooming needs make them perfectly adapted to warm environments. They’re intelligent, independent, and resilient dogs that require minimal care, but like all breeds, they’ll need plenty of water and shade in the heat.

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