Hot Dog Summer: Canine Breeds That Thrive Under The Sun

Summer is in full swing, and while some of us prefer the cool comfort of our air-conditioned homes, many of us like to take to the outdoors for for some fun in the sun. Influenced by circulation, metabolism, body size, age, sex, and health, some people can tolerate heat better than others.

Similarly, some dog breeds can’t handle the higher summer temps very well, while other breeds thrive under the hot summer sun. Flat-faced breeds and older dogs are better suited for lounging in a shaded or air-conditioned environment, while short-coated, long-snouted, muscular, and athletic breeds are better able to tolerate the summer temps.

Join us as we take a look at some of these heat tolerant pups, and learn a little about the characteristics that allow them to tolerate the heat so well.

Dalmatian

If you have a Dalmatian, you already know that you have a high-energy dog that is more than willing to take things outside during the summer months. Due to their lean, muscular builds, short coats, and white fur between their spots, Dalmatians are well suited for summer fun in the sun, and make great companions for people who live in warmer climates. 

Originally bred as hunting and carriage dogs, Dalmatians are known for their health, endurance, and ability to withstand higher temperatures. Their lean, muscular bodies carry less body fat, allowing them to cool off faster. Their short coats help them handle the heat, and the white fur between their spots reflects the rays of the sun.

Recommended Toy: Rope Gliderz – Monstera

Chihuahua

Believed to be direct descendants of the Techichi, a small desert canine dating back to Mayan times, Chihuahuas get their name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where they were discovered in the mid-19th century. Originating from the Chihuahuan Desert region in Mexico, it should come as no surprise that Chihuahuas are very comfortable under the sun. Their small size and thin coat help keep them cool during the summer months, but they may require a sweater when the winter months arrive.

Recommended Toy: SportsBallz – Soccer

Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue Healers, were originally bred in the early 1800s to be working dogs for cattle ranchers. The breed was developed in Australia for droving cattle over long distances across rough terrain in extreme desert-like conditions. Bred to be tough and tolerant of heat, the Australian Cattle Dog’s short dense double coat features an undercoat that insulates them, and a straight water-resistant outercoat that helps keep them cool.

Recommended Toy: ZippyTuff+ Tree Branch

Yorkshire Terrier

Originally bred to hunt and kill rodents in coal mines and cotton mills, the pint-sized Yorkshire Terrier has since become a popular companion dog. Affectionately called Yorkies, the Yorkshire Terrier is considered a lap dog, but there’s more to them than that. These bold little terriers are full of attitude and energy and make great companions for summer activities and adventures.

One of the best breeds for warmer climates, Yorkies possess a single coat of fine thin hair, not fur, that doesn’t trap heat like fur does. Their long hair can also be trimmed short during the summer months to help them stay cool while looking adorable. Also, their smaller body mass generates less heat, allowing them to regulate their body temperature more effectively.

Recommended Toy: ZippyTuff Squeaker Ball – Small

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds, known for being swift and agile, are not only built for speed. The same characteristics that allow them to reach speeds up to 25 miles per hour also help them to beat the heat. Their small size, long legs, lack of body fat, and short, thin coats enable them to tolerate higher temps, and are often found sunbathing in warm weather. As companion dogs, “Iggys” also tend to spend a lot of time indoors, sleeping and conserving energy – further helping them to tolerate the heat. 

Recommended Toy: ecoZippy Cotton and Jute Tug

Although these breeds do very well tolerating the heat, you should still exercise caution while enjoying summer activities with your dog. For additional information, please refer to the American Kennel Club’s Tips For Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer.

And, if you need additional help keeping your dog cool this summer, check out our all-new Donutz Splash Pad sprinkler toy!