12 dog breeds that thrive in hot climates

If you live in Houston, Honolulu, or any other sun-soaked locale, you may be on the lookout for a dog who can thrive in your high-temperature homeland. And the truth is, a variety of dog breeds can stay safe in the heat if they're blessed with a vigilant owner.

But some breeds might struggle more than others. For instance, brachycephalic breeds with squishy, short noses (like Frenchies) generally have a harder time dealing with heat, as they just can't pant as effectively to cool down. And high-energy breeds can pose a challenge too: Keeping a Husky both cool and well-exercised isn't exactly easy when it's summer in Death Valley.

OK, that's an extreme example, but you get the point. Whether you're considering a purebred or a mixed breed from the shelter, life may be easier for both you and your prospective pup if you first learn which breeds are suited to warmer regions–often because they originated from such regions in the first place. Here are some of your best bets:

Australian cattle dog

The energetic worker

Why they’re great: Bred for endurance in hot, arid environments, Australian cattle dogs are perfect for active owners. Though they do require a lot of physical activity, their coats help dissipate heat, making them well-suited for warm climates.

Ideal owner: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a vigorous and intelligent companion for activities like hiking or running.

Things to consider: Like any working breed, cattle dogs need extensive exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Chihuahua

The tiny desert native

Why they’re great: You saw this one coming, didn't you? Chihuahuas thrive in hot weather thanks to their short coats and minimal grooming needs.

Ideal owner: Perfect for city dwellers in apartments or homes without yards, as well as owners who want a small, lively companion.

Things to consider: Their bold personality means they can be quite vocal and protective; early socialization and training are key.

Greyhound

The sleek speedster

Why they’re great: Their thin coats and lean bodies help greyhounds manage body heat effectively. They enjoy lounging indoors and need safe sprinting spaces outdoors.

Ideal owner: Owners who can provide both a cozy indoor environment and room to run (whether that's leashed for a run through the neighborhood, in your yard, or at the dog park).

Things to consider: While they're game for warm weather, greyhounds can be sensitive to truly extreme temperatures. Keep a close eye on your pup when it's especially hot out (or especially cold, for that matter).

Dalmatian

The historical coach dog

Why they’re great: With short coats and a love of activity (they were historically used as carriage dogs), dalmatians are great for warm climates. They boast impressive stamina and enjoy being active.

Ideal owner: Active owners or families who can provide lots of exercise.

Things to consider: Dalmatians can be headstrong and require consistent training; they also need plenty of exercise to prevent behavioral issues.

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Weimaraner

The all-terrain aristocrat

Why they’re great: Short coats, large nasal pages, and big lungs give weimaraners an edge in hot weather. They love physical challenges and require plenty of activity to be at their best.

Ideal owner: Active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Things to consider: Weimaraners are high-energy dogs that need extensive interaction and are prone to separation anxiety.

Vizsla

The vibrant hunter

Why they’re great: Originating from Hungary, vizslas are no stranger to warm climates. Their short, rust-colored coats reflect sunlight, and their lean build helps them manage body temperature effectively.

Ideal owner: Active owners who can provide lots of outdoor exercise and enjoy having a Velcro dog that sticks close to their side.

Things to consider: Need significant interaction and are best with owners who are frequently at home.

German shorthaired pointer

The energetic outdoors enthusiasts

Why they’re great: German shorthaired pointers (or "GSPs," as owners refer to them) are known for their robust energy and versatility in outdoor activities (not just hunting!). Their short, dense coat makes them well-suited for hot climates.

Ideal owner: Perfect for active individuals or families who love outdoor adventures such as hiking, running, or hunting. This breed thrives in an environment where they can expend their energy and satisfy their high exercise needs.

Things to consider: Their strong prey drive and energy require consistent training and socialization from a young age.

Whippet

The gentle racer

Why they’re great: Whippets' short-haired, lean physique helps them handle heat well, and they are relatively low-energy indoors.

Ideal owner: Those who appreciate a calm indoor companion and can provide moderate exercise.

Things to consider: Like greyhounds, whippets need protection from extreme heat and shouldn't be left outside in high temperatures for long periods.

Doberman pinscher

The vigilant protector

Why they’re great: Dobermans have short coats and muscular builds that handle heat well, making them great for active owners in warm climates.

Ideal owner: Active and experienced dog owners who can provide structured training and plenty of physical activities.

Things to consider: Requires consistent training and socialization to manage their protective nature.

Labradoodle (with a short coat)

The friendly hybrid

Why they’re great: With their short coats, Labradoodles inherit the heat-friendly traits of a Lab, combined with the intelligence and nearly-hypoallergenic qualities of a poodle.

Ideal owner: Families or individuals seeking a friendly, outgoing companion that may also be suitable for allergy sufferers.

Things to consider: Coat type can vary, so choose a Labradoodle with a shorter coat for better heat tolerance. Regular grooming and exercise are key. And if you have a pool for them to swim in, you're ahead of the game.

Basenji

The silent hunter

Why they’re great: Originating from central Africa, Basenjis are known as the "barkless" dogs due to their unique larynx. Their short coat and lean body make them well-suited for hot climates.

Ideal owner: Best for those who enjoy a quiet, energetic, and independent companion.

Things to consider: Basenjis can be stubborn and are not the easiest to train. They need consistent, patient training and secure fencing to manage their strong prey drive and curiosity.

Saluki

The graceful sprinter

Why they’re great: Salukis are ancient desert hunters with a slim, elegant build and a silky, easy-to-maintain coat that helps them handle heat well. They're incredibly fast and enjoy extensive exercise.

Ideal owner: Great for owners with access to large, safe running spaces, and who value both the breed's quiet nature and athletic needs.

Things to consider: Salukis require secure areas for running due to their strong chase instinct and are best suited for gentle yet firm training approaches. Regular grooming is necessary, particularly for the feathered varieties.

The bottom line?

Choosing the right breed for a hot climate means considering both the physical attributes that help manage heat and the temperament that matches your lifestyle. (We know, it's a lot to take in.)

Each of these breeds has unique qualities that can help them become happy (and comfortable!) members of your family–even in warmer weather.