8 Heat-Sensitive Dog Breeds That Need Protection This Summer

Yes, your Frenchie could need more SPF than you, just a different kind.

It’s a sunny afternoon, and the park is full of wagging tails and excited barks. But not all dogs are enjoying the summer equally. As temperatures soar, some breeds begin to struggle, even collapse, under the oppressive heat. For dog owners, it’s not just about providing water or shade; it's about knowing whether your dog is genetically built for heat or not. While any animal can suffer from heatstroke, some dog breeds are at a higher risk.

Follow along to find if your dog breed is at a high risk of heatstroke and learn ways to keep them safe, happy, and cool all summer long.

How We Selected These Breeds

Veterinary research, breed-specific anatomy, and clinical data from organizations like the Royal Veterinary College guided our selection. Breeds were chosen based on key risk factors:

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) skulls that restrict airflow
• Thick or double coats that trap heat
• High muscle mass or a low surface area to volume ratio
• Energetic temperaments that make dogs overexert in the heat

These dogs aren’t just fluffy or adorable—they’re heat-sensitive by nature.

Breed Profiles & Protection Strategies

Pug

With their flat faces and lovable snorts, Pugs are iconic. But that smooshed nose comes at a cost. Their short nasal passages make it extremely difficult for them to cool themselves through panting.

Imagine your Pug, Max, chasing a ball on a warm day. Within five minutes, he's flopped over under the bench, panting heavily and drooling. That’s not laziness—it’s his body crying out for help.

How to Protect Max:

• Avoid midday walks; aim for early morning or after sunset.
• Use a breathable harness, not a collar, to reduce strain on the airway.
• Invest in a cooling mat or fan where your dog naps.

French Bulldog

Frenchies are playful, stocky, and unfortunately, heat-intolerant. Their broad skull and compressed airways make them especially prone to overheating, even after a short walk.

Watch for signs: Heavy panting, vomiting, and confusion after exercise.

Protection Tips:

• Keep playtime short and sweet.
• Walk in shaded areas only.
• Never take them in a car without A/C—even for a “quick” errand.

Recommended Gear: Cooling vest, paw-protecting booties for hot pavement.

English Bulldog

Bulldogs have a reputation for being laid-back, but their hefty bodies and tightly packed facial structure make them one of the highest-risk breeds for heatstroke.

A summer picnic scenario: Bella the Bulldog joins the family outing. Twenty minutes later, she’s drooling excessively and refusing to stand. She’s not tired—she’s in danger.

How to Keep Bella Safe:

• Always provide cool, shaded areas when outside.
• Wipe her skin folds regularly to prevent heat rash and infection.
• Avoid high humidity—this breed fares worse in muggy weather.

Chow Chow

Think of a Chow Chow as wearing a fur-lined parka in July. Their thick double coats, built for icy winters, act like insulation in summer.

Red flags: Reluctance to move, lying flat on cool surfaces, rapid panting.

Prevention Strategy:

• Brush daily to remove undercoat buildup.
• Don’t shave; trim the coat professionally to help airflow.
• Create a “burrow” zone with shade and cold tile for resting.
  

Greyhound

Greyhounds are sleek and built for speed, but they’re also surprisingly sensitive to heat. Their high muscle content and thin skin make them poor at regulating body temperature after intense activity.

Example: After a morning sprint, Luna the Greyhound may lie down and breathe rapidly for long minutes unless actively cooled.

How to Help:

• Cool down gradually after walks or runs.
• Let them wade in kiddie pools or stand on cooling mats.
• Always monitor post-play breathing rates.

Golden Retriever

These lovable family dogs often overexert themselves during play, especially in warm weather. Their thick undercoats trap heat even after grooming.

Look for: Sluggish movement, warm skin, excessive panting.

Tips for Summer:

• Ask your groomer for a “summer cut”—not a shave.
• Serve frozen broth cubes as a cooling treat.
• Rotate between indoor and shaded outdoor play.

Siberian Husky

Built for Siberian winters, these stunning dogs often struggle in tropical or even temperate summers. Their instinct to run doesn’t mix well with warm weather.

You may notice: Paw lifting, excessive panting, restlessness.

Help Huskies Stay Cool:

• Never shave the coat, but brush daily to remove excess undercoat.
• Provide multiple shaded water stations.
• Replace long walks with indoor enrichment games like scent puzzles.

Springer Spaniel

Springers love to run, chase, and play for hours. But in hot weather, their energy can be their enemy.

Signs to watch: Sudden slowing down, heavy breathing, lying down during activity.

Heat Safety Tips:

• Break up exercise into short intervals with long rest periods.
• Train them to lie on a designated cooling mat.
• Use a spray bottle mist to cool down their coat during outings.

General Summer Heatstroke Prevention Tips

Even if your dog isn't one of the eight breeds listed above, heatstroke can happen to any pup on a hot day. Here are universal tips:

• Hydration is key: Use clean bowls, refill often, and try frozen treats or broth ice cubes.
• Schedule smart: Avoid peak heat hours (12 p.m. - 4 p.m.) for walks or play.
• Monitor signs: Rapid panting, glazed eyes, drooling, vomiting, and weakness = emergency.
• First aid basics: Move your dog to a cool area, apply damp towels (not ice water), and call your vet.

The Last Straw

Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to summer heat. Breeds with flat faces, heavy coats, or boundless energy need extra care to stay safe in rising temperatures. But with the right knowledge and tools—like cooling mats, smart schedules, and a watchful eye—you can make summer safe and enjoyable for every pup.

Know someone with a Pug, a Bulldog, or a Husky? Share this blog with them and help more dogs beat the heat.

FAQs

Is it okay to shave double-coated dogs like Huskies or Golden Retrievers?

No. Shaving removes their natural insulation and increases sunburn risk. Regular brushing and light trimming are safer.

How can I tell if my dog is overheating?

Look for excessive panting, red or pale gums, glazed eyes, uncoordinated movement, and vomiting.

Can I use cold water or ice on my dog?

Use cool—not ice-cold—water. Sudden drops in body temp can cause shock. Cool wet towels and fans are more effective.

Is it okay to shave double-coated dogs like Huskies or Goldens?

No. Shaving can damage their natural insulation and increase the risk of sunburn. Instead, brush regularly and trim lightly.

How do I take my dog’s temperature?

Use a digital rectal thermometer. Normal range: 101°F-102.5°F. Anything above 103°F may indicate overheating.

What’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Heat exhaustion is an early stage with heavy panting and lethargy. Heatstroke involves collapse, vomiting, or seizures and requires emergency care.

Sources:

• Royal Veterinary College
• ASPCA Hot Weather Safety