10 Dog Breeds That Struggle Most In The Heat And Need Extra Care This Summer

Summer’s scorching days aren’t fun for every furry friend. Some dog breeds have physical features that make hot weather dangerous.

Knowing which pups need extra protection can help prevent heat stroke and keep your four-legged family members safe during the sweltering months ahead.

1. Bulldog

Those adorable wrinkles and flat faces come with a serious downside. Bulldogs can’t pant efficiently to cool themselves when temperatures rise.

Their compressed airways make breathing laborious even in mild heat, and their stocky bodies retain warmth. Always schedule walks during cooler hours and never leave your Bulldog outdoors on hot days.

2. Pug

Behind that squishy face lies a breed particularly vulnerable to summer dangers. Pugs overheat rapidly due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure.

Their small nasal passages severely restrict airflow needed for cooling. Consider investing in cooling mats or vests for these little companions. Even brief outdoor exposure on warm days can quickly become dangerous for these heat-sensitive pups.

3. French Bulldog

Frenchies face double trouble in hot weather. Their compact bodies retain heat while their flat faces make efficient panting impossible.

Did you know these popular companions can suffer heat stroke in temperatures as low as 70°F if active? Keep exercise minimal during warm months. Air conditioning isn’t just a luxury for these dogs—it’s often a necessity for their safety.

4. Boxer

Playful and athletic, Boxers often ignore their body’s warning signs. Their boundless energy masks early heat exhaustion symptoms until it’s potentially dangerous.

Unlike some breeds, they won’t naturally slow down when overheating begins. Their shortened muzzles compound the problem by reducing cooling efficiency. Always bring water and plan frequent shade breaks during any summer activities with your Boxer.

5. Shih Tzu

Beneath that glamorous flowing coat, Shih Tzus struggle silently with heat regulation. Their luxurious double-layer fur works like insulation, trapping body heat close to the skin.

Many owners don’t realize a summer trim isn’t just for looks—it’s essential for comfort and safety. Consider a “puppy cut” during hot months while ensuring their facial hair doesn’t obstruct breathing or vision.

6. Chow Chow

Originating in chilly northern China, Chow Chows wear what amounts to a winter coat year-round. Their thick double-layer fur creates a heat-trapping barrier that’s nearly impossible to cool through.

Regular brushing helps remove excess undercoat but isn’t enough alone. Early morning walks are essential, as is constant access to shade and cool water. Never shave them completely—their coat also protects against sunburn.

7. Pekingese

Royal companions to ancient Chinese emperors, these little lions weren’t bred for summer survival. Their compressed facial structure severely limits cooling through panting.

Meanwhile, their long, dense fur coat creates a perfect heat trap. Keep walks extremely short during warm weather—even 10 minutes can be too much. Indoor living with air conditioning is practically mandatory for these imperial pups during summer months.

8. Boston Terrier

Don’t let their energetic personality fool you—Boston Terriers face serious summer challenges. Their tuxedo-like coat might seem thin, but their real problem lies in their facial structure.

Those adorable snub noses create restricted airways that make efficient panting impossible. Consider cooling bandanas or vests for outdoor activities. Watch for excessive drooling or gums turning bright red—these are warning signs of overheating requiring immediate action.

9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Sweet-natured Cavaliers hide a surprising vulnerability to heat behind those soulful eyes. Their relatively long coats trap warmth against their bodies, while their somewhat compressed airways restrict cooling efficiency.

Surprisingly, their eagerness to please often means they’ll continue playing even when overheating begins. Keep exercise sessions brief during warm weather. Remember that their silky coats need regular brushing to prevent heat-trapping mats from forming.

10. Lhasa Apso

Sentinel dogs of Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos developed their heavy coats for frigid mountain environments—not summer backyards. Their floor-length fur becomes a serious liability when temperatures climb.

While their faces aren’t as flat as some breeds, their small size means they overheat quickly. A shorter “puppy cut” isn’t just stylish—it’s a summer safety essential. Always provide cool tile floors or cooling mats for comfortable resting spots.