13 Big Dog Breeds Well-Suited for Hot Climates
Most dogs are relatively adaptable to temperature variations. However, some dog breeds handle hot weather better than others.
Usually, dogs that tolerate heat have several things in common such as short hair, single-layer coat, large ears, and long muzzles. Also, many of these breeds come from warm regions.
In this article, we will review 13 large dog breeds that tolerate hot weather.
1. Great Dane
Also known as the “Apollo of Dogs,” the Great Dane is a funny and loving pet that enjoys snoozing on the couch. It is unknown why the name of the breed carrier the word Dane as the breed has nothing to do with Denmark - its native country is Germany. This giant adapts to warmer climates because of its lazy lifestyle and short coat.
Personality Traits: Patient, Dependable, Friendly
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 7-10 years
2. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an enthusiastic and skilled gundog. It is well-known for its stamina and endurance. The breed comes from Germany, as the name suggests. One of the main features allowing this breed to handle the heat is the short coat.
Personality Traits: Smart, Friendly, Willing to Please
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
3. Dogo Argentino
Initially bred to hunt big game, like puma and wild boars, the Dogo Argentino is brave and ready for a challenge. This dog hunts in a pack and forms a strong bond with its owner. Hailing from a warm country, the Dogo Argentino handles heat. The short and white coats are also helpful for warmth management.
Personality Traits: Courageous, Athletic, Loyal
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 9-15 years
4. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a hard-working, and strong-willed dog developed to chase red foxes. Once it catches a scent, this dog’s prey drive kicks in, and they are very strong. The breed is also notorious for its high-pitched howls. The short coat, long ears, and sleek snout allow the American Foxhound to handle hot weather.
Personality Traits: Independent, Sweet-Tempered, Easy-Going
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
5. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is an ancient Molossian dog originating from southern Italy. The history of the breed is intertwined with that of the Roman Empire. Despite the tough appearance, the Cane Corso is loving and affectionate with its family. This dog adapts to warm climates as it comes from a warm region.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, Majestic, Intelligent
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 9-12 years
6. Ibizan Hound
Coming from the scorching shores of Spain’s Balearic Islands, the Ibizan Hound handles heat really well. The breed is ancient and elegant - its physique is often described as graceful with a deer-like demeanor. Because of its speed and agility, the breed was used as a rabbit coarser.
Personality Traits: Even-Tempered, Polite, Family-Oriented
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 11-14 years
7. Afghan Hound
The regal-looking Afghan Hound radiates elegance and aristocracy. This ancient dog breed is famous for its long silky coat and sweet temper. The breed is so old there are myths about Afghan Hounds being present on Noah’s Ark. Despite the long coat, this dog tolerates hot weather as it comes from high-tempered regions.
Personality Traits: Sweet, Dignified, Independent
Average Lifespan: 12-18 years
8. Dalmatian
The most distinct feature of the Dalmatian is its eye-catching black spots. It is interesting to mention that Dalmatians are born all-white and develop unique spots as they grow. This coach dog was developed in Central Europe, in the Dalmatia region on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. The short white coat is fit for warmth.
Personality Traits: Dignified, Smart, Outgoing
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 11-13 years
9. Doberman Pinscher
Intimidating physical appearance and extreme intelligence are the hallmarks of the Doberman Pinscher. The breed was developed in Apolda, Germany, to be a protector of tax collectors, hence its nickname - The Taxcollector’s dog. The short coat and long muzzle make this dog adept for warmer climates.
Personality Traits: Loyal, Fearless, Alert
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 10-12 years
10. Vizsla
The Vizsla is a red-coated and elegant athlete with a sharp mind and expressive eyes. The breed became popular is it adapted to catching different prey, thus becoming an all-purpose hunting dog. Vizslas are well-equipped to manage heat as they are slender, long-muzzled, and large-eared with short coats.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, Gentle, Energetic
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 12-14 years
11. Weimaraner
Also known as the “Grey Ghost,” the Weimaraner is a skilled hunting dog and loving companion. The breed is fairly young - it was established in 19th-century Germany by breeding German & French hunting dogs with Bloodhounds. Weimaraners tolerate warm weather because of their short coats, long ears, and large ears.
Personality Traits: Fearless, Obedient, Friendly
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 10-13 years
12. Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano is among the oldest pointing dog breeds. The dog has a powerful physique and is easily trainable. Therefore, it is used as a versatile gun dog. As the name suggests, the dog originates from Italy, known for its warm climate, hence the breed’s heat tolerance.
Personality Traits: Enthusiastic, Intelligent, Affectionate
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 10-14 years
13. Boerboel
The Boerboel is an imposing dog with a robust build and genuine love of its human family members. The breed was developed in South Africa and was used as a guardian dog. Even today, the Boerboel is true to its guarding heritage and is fiercely protective. Its ability to tolerate hot weather stems from its origin.
Personality Traits: Calm, Confident, Intelligent
Heat Tolerance Level: High
Average Lifespan: 9-11 years
Conclusion
The above-featured large dog breeds tolerate high temperatures and can handle hot weather. However, that does not mean they are heat-resistant.
It is still recommended to avoid taking walks during the hottest hours of the day and ensure your dog stays hydrated at all times.
Also, remember that most hot-tolerant breeds are shorthaired, which means they are at risk of getting sunburns unless protected.
