15 Cool Dog Breeds That Were Born to Beat the Heat These adaptable pups thrive in balmy climates. By Sarah Kuta Sarah Kuta Sarah Kuta is an award-winning Colorado-based writer and editor with two dogs at home. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Published on 07/08/25 Credit: Elan Irving / Getty Images Finding a dog that matches your lifestyle is important for ensuring a happy, healthy, long-lasting relationship. But there’s one factor many pet parents forget to consider before adopting a pet: the weather. Some dog breeds like the Alaskan malamute adore the snow and cold, while others need to wear jackets just to walk around the block. If you live in a warm, tropical area (or you’re planning to move to one soon), it makes sense to bring home a pup that is well-suited for the local climate—a breed that thrives in or at least tolerates hot weather. This is especially true if you like to stay active and you’re looking for a four-legged friend to join you on runs, hikes, and beach days. Curious about which pups fare best when it’s toasty outside? Read on to learn more about some of the best hot-weather dog breeds. Breed Characteristics It’s important to remember that all dogs are individuals and that each one will have their own level of heat tolerance. That said, there are some common characteristics that help some breeds thrive in hot climates. If you’re looking for a pup that can withstand high temperatures and lots of humidity, consider bringing one home that has short fur with no undercoat, a smaller frame, and a lean, muscular build. Dogs with lighter-colored coats, long snouts, and large, upright ears typically have an easier time staying cool, too. Additionally, breeds that hail from warm locales—like Africa or Latin America—are generally more comfortable in warm weather than those that originated in cooler climates. Warning Keep in mind that even the most heat-tolerant dog breeds can still get too hot. Always make sure your pup has access to shade and fresh water, and try to exercise outdoors during the cool early morning or late evening hours. Also, if your pup is nearly or completely hairless, you’ll need to take extra precautions—like slathering her in a sunscreen for dogs. And never, ever leave your dog in a hot car, even with the windows cracked. 01 of 15 Rhodesian Ridgeback Credit: olgagorovenko / Getty Images Ask any Rhodesian Ridgeback owner and they’ll agree: These dapper dogs love to be warm, whether that’s snuggling under a thick blanket or basking in a sunbeam. These preferences make a lot of sense when you consider that “Ridgies” were developed in southern Africa to hunt lions and other large game. Their short, smooth coat and muscular build helped them stay cool as they chased animals across the savanna. They’ve held onto these same attributes, even though today you’re more likely to see one lounging on the patio. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 22 to 27 inches WEIGHT: 70 to 85 pounds COAT: Short, smooth COAT COLOR: Light wheaten to red wheaten; may have white markings and/or black mask LIFE SPAN: 12 to 15 years TEMPERAMENT: Courageous, independent, protective HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Africa 02 of 15 Basenji Credit: Madjuszka / Getty Images Basenjis are no strangers to hot weather. They hail from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country situated on the equator in the middle of Africa. Their smooth, short fur, erect ears, and an athletic build helps these hounds stay cool, even when temperatures skyrocket. These pups are often described as “catlike” because of their independent and aloof nature, and they can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training. As a result, they may not be the best fit for first-time dog owners, regardless of the climate. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 16 to 17 inches WEIGHT: 22 to 24 pounds COAT: Short, smooth COAT COLOR: Black and white; black, tan, and white; brindle and white; or red and white with/without brindle markings LIFE SPAN: 13 to 14 years TEMPERAMENT: Independent, intelligent, quiet HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes ORIGIN: Democratic Republic of the Congo 03 of 15 Dalmatian Credit: Matty Anderson / EyeEm / Getty Images The exact origins of the Dalmatian are a little murky. But, historically, these iconic spotted pups ran alongside horse-drawn carriages, which means they needed to be able to withstand all sorts of weather conditions. Today, their short coats and lean builds make these dogs great companions for active families living in hot climates. The white fur in between their spots also helps reflect sunlight on a bright summer’s day. Breed Overview GROUP: Non-sporting HEIGHT: 19 to 24 inches WEIGHT: 45 to 65 pounds COAT: Short COAT COLOR: White with black or liver spots LIFE SPAN: 11 to 13 years TEMPERAMENT: Outgoing, friendly, intelligent, active, energetic, sensitive, playful HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Possibly Dalmatia/Croatia or England 04 of 15 Dachshund Credit: Belive…/Moment/Getty Images Despite their diminutive stature, Doxies are sturdy, hearty dogs that can generally tolerate a wide variety of weather conditions. They also love to be cozy, often seeking out a sunny spot on the carpet for a mid-day snooze. Still, because of their “go-go-go” personalities, they’re not always the best at regulating their own body temperatures, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your pup during especially sweltering weather. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 8 to 9 inches (standard); 5 to 6 inches (miniature) WEIGHT: 16 to 32 pounds (standard); up to 11 pounds (miniature) COAT: Smooth (shorthaired), longhaired, and wire-haired COAT COLOR: Black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red with various markings such as dapple, piebald, brindle, and sable LIFE SPAN: 12 to 16 years TEMPERAMENT: Clever, playful, stubborn, devoted, lively, independent, courageous HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Germany Continue to 5 of 15 below 05 of 15 Greyhound Credit: Fernando Trabanco Fotografía / Getty Images In the winter, it’s not uncommon to see greyhounds decked out in fashionable coats and sweaters. These large sprinters get cold easily, thanks to their slender bodies, long limbs, and thin coats. So, after shivering their way through January and February, they usually welcome the warmer temperatures of spring and summer and like to celebrate by sunbathing. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 27 to 30 inches WEIGHT: 60 to 80 pounds COAT: Short, smooth COAT COLOR: Black, blue, fawn, red, white, and various shades of brindle, or a combination of any of these colors LIFE SPAN: 10 to 13 years TEMPERAMENT: Even-tempered, intelligent, affectionate, athletic, quiet, gentle HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Egypt 06 of 15 German Shorthaired Pointer Warm, moist soil near bodies of water are more likely to contain the fungus that causes histoplasmosis. Credit: Getty Images/BranstonandTwiglet If you’re looking for an active pup to be your running or hiking buddy, consider the German shorthaired pointer. And If your pooch does need to cool off while you’re out adventuring, a quick dip in a lake or creek should do the trick, since these athletic pups love to swim. Once they get going, however, German shorthaired pointers often don’t want to stop. So, you may need to limit their activity or enforce rest breaks to prevent them from overdoing it (and potentially overheating). Breed Overview GROUP: Sporting HEIGHT: 21 to 25 inches WEIGHT: 45 to 70 pounds COAT: Short and thin COAT COLOR: Solid liver, liver and white, liver roan, or liver and ticked LIFE SPAN: 12 to 14 years TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, companionable, active, bold, attentive HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Germany 07 of 15 Chihuahua Credit: Getty Images/Ratchat Since they’re small in stature and have thin fur, Chihuahuas can lose body heat quickly in cold weather. But when the sun comes out, these petite pooches are happy as can be. That’s largely due to the fact that this smart, sassy breed originated in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, much of which has a scorching, dry desert climate. Breed Overview GROUP: Toy HEIGHT: 5 to 8 inches WEIGHT: Not exceeding 6 pounds COAT: Smooth and short or longhaired COAT COLOR: Black, black and tan, blue and tan, chocolate, chocolate and tan, cream, fawn, fawn and white, red LIFE SPAN: 14 to 16 years TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, alert, lively, attentive, bright, companionable HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Mexico 08 of 15 Ibizan Hound Credit: Kristiinatammik / Getty Images A lanky frame, upright ears, and a short, wiry coat make the Ibizan hound an ideal choice for a hot climate. The breed originated in the Balearic Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Spain in the Mediterranean, where the winters are mild and the summers tend to be balmy. These high-energy pups need lots of exercise, but after a long walk or a dog sport session, they’re happy to relax and take it easy. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 22.5 to 27.5 inches WEIGHT: 45 to 50 pounds COAT: Wiry or smooth short coat COAT COLOR: Red, red and white, or white LIFE SPAN: 11 to 14 years TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, even-tempered, active HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Spain Continue to 9 of 15 below 09 of 15 Airedale Terrier Credit: oleghz / Getty Images Airedale terriers are adaptable dogs who do well in both hot and cold temperatures—so they may be a good option if you live in a place that experiences all four seasons. Their bodies are covered in thick, wiry fur, which helps insulate them from the heat. However, if you’re a first-time pet parent, you may want to consider some other options, as Airedale terriers can be a handful. Breed Overview GROUP: Terrier HEIGHT: 23 to 24 inches WEIGHT: 40 to 65 pounds COAT: Hard, wiry, dense, straight, short topcoat; softer undercoat COAT COLOR: Tan head and ears; body is mix of tan and black or dark grizzle LIFE SPAN: 11 to 13 years TEMPERAMENT: Outgoing, friendly, intelligent, alert, confident, courageous HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes ORIGIN: England 10 of 15 Great Dane Credit: Getty Images/Anita Kot As long as they’ve got a comfy spot to relax in, Great Danes don’t mind the warm weather. These gentle giants are natural couch potatoes, which means you probably don’t have to worry about them running around too much and overheating on a scorching day. But if you live in a warm climate and you like to spend a lot of time outdoors, consider bringing home a Great Dane with lighter-colored fur, which will help reflect the sun. Breed Overview GROUP: Working HEIGHT: 28 to 24 inches WEIGHT: 99 to 200 pounds COAT: Short, smooth COAT COLOR: Black, black and white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, merle, silver, solid white, or mantle LIFE SPAN: 6 to 8 years TEMPERAMENT: Calm, gentle, friendly, loving, even-tempered, attentive, proud HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Germany 11 of 15 Xoloitzcuintli The Xolo is an active and energetic dog. Credit: Ирина Мещерякова/Getty Images This unique breed comes from Mexico, which has a hot and humid climate. Though they are generally tolerant of heat, these hairless (or nearly hairless) pups need extra protection to avoid getting sunburned. Indoors, they’re watchful, loyal pups who will let you know immediately if someone is at the door. Breed Overview GROUP: Non-Sporting HEIGHT: Standard: 18 to 23 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniature: 14 to 18 inches; Toy: 10 to 14 inches WEIGHT: Standard: 30 to 55 pounds; Miniature: 15 to 30 pounds; Toy: 10 to 15 pounds COAT: Hairless: A small amount of short, coarse hair may appear on the top of the head, the feet, and the end of the tail. Coated: Short, smooth, and close-fitting coat COAT COLOR: Hairless: A small amount of short, coarse hair may appear on the top of the head, the feet, and the end of the tail. Coated: Short, smooth, and close-fitting coat LIFE SPAN: 14 to 17 years TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent and protective HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Mexico Top 10 Hairless Dog Breeds: Adorable Without A Hairdo 12 of 15 Afghan Hound An Afghan hound marches against the wind. Credit: Marina Plevako/Shutterstock The Afghan hound is a rugged breed developed thousands of years ago in the vicinity of modern-day Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan. Because of their heritage as hunting companions, these tough, versatile pups generally hold up well in all kinds of weather. Their long, flowing locks may require a little extra grooming, but they help protect these elegant creatures from harsh climates, whether hot or cold. Breed Overview GROUP: Hound HEIGHT: 25 to 27 inches WEIGHT: 50 to 60 pounds COAT: Long, thick, and fine COAT COLOR: Any color or combination of colors, including brindle and domino LIFE SPAN: 12 to 14 years TEMPERAMENT: Dignified, silly, aloof, happy, independent, quiet HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes ORIGIN: Afghanistan Continue to 13 of 15 below 13 of 15 Italian Greyhound Credit: stelo / Getty Images Italian greyhounds, also known as “Iggies,” are famous for seeking out cozy places and donning trendy sweaters when the weather turns brisk. With their long legs, slender bodies, and thin coats, they’re ideally suited for warmer locales. They love to run and play, but as with other energetic breeds, you’ll want to keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overdo it—and be sure to put sunscreen on the parts of their little bodies that are exposed to the sun. Breed Overview GROUP: Toy HEIGHT: 13 to 15 inches WEIGHT: 7 to 14 pounds COAT: Short, smooth COAT COLOR: Gray, black, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, red, sable, or a combination LIFE SPAN: 14 to 15 years TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, playful, companionable HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes ORIGIN: Italy 14 of 15 Australian Cattle Dog Credit: Tara Gregg/Getty Images Blue heelers are herding dogs that were originally developed to work outdoors in the harsh Australian outback, so they’re generally not phased by warm temps. These Down Under pups make great hiking or running companions but, because of their working dog mentality, they need lots of exercise and stimulation. Only bring one home if you’re able to commit to meeting their needs, which include proper training and socialization. Breed Overview GROUP: Herding HEIGHT: 17 to 20 inches WEIGHT: 35 to 50 pounds COAT: Dense double coat COAT COLOR: Blue or red in mottled or speckled patterns LIFE SPAN: 12 to 16 years TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, active, intelligent HYPOALLERGENIC: No ORIGIN: Australia 15 of 15 Chinese Crested This fun-loving breed doesn't mind letting its freak flag fly!. Credit: DragoNika/Shutterstock Erect ears and a small, lithe body help the Chinese crested chill when temperatures rise. Many of these pups are completely or nearly hairless (except for the silky strands on their heads, paws and tails), so their tender skin is vulnerable to the sun. Be sure to provide plenty of shade or invest in dog-friendly sunscreen if you’re planning an outdoor excursion. Otherwise, these intelligent, easy-going pups are relatively low-maintenance; they can thrive just about anywhere. Breed Overview GROUP: Toy HEIGHT: 11 to 13 inches WEIGHT: 8 to 12 pounds COAT: Soft, silky hair only present on the head, feet, and tail (or "powderpuff" fully-coated variety) COAT COLOR: White, gray, or black hair and gray, pink, or brown skin with white patches LIFE SPAN: 13 to 18 years TEMPERAMENT: Lively, playful, cheerful, intelligent, social, companionable HYPOALLERGENIC: Yes ORIGIN: China Breeds to Avoid If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to avoid dogs that were bred for cold, snow, and ice climates, such as: Samoyed Bernese mountain dog Akita Alaskan malamute Saint Bernard Siberian husky Also, unless you have ample air conditioning, you may want to steer clear of dogs with flat faces (known as “brachycephalic” breeds). Because of the unique shape of their skulls, these pups are more prone to overheating. This includes breeds like: French Bulldog Pekingese Pug Boston terrier Shih tzu Boxer Explore more: Dogs Dog Breeds