Best Dog Breeds for Warm Climates

Posted by Jessica Roberts

If you’re searching for a four-legged companion, it’s important to consider how your new friend will handle the climate you live in. While it’s true that many dogs are adaptable to different climates, these breeds are known for being total fans of summer and sunshine.

Just remember that even the pups best suited for the heat aren’t impervious to overheating. Always follow best practices for keeping your dog cool in the summer.

Chihuahua

Small in stature, but very cool. Photo by BringFido/Liza

This little fella tops our list of the very best dog breeds for a warm climate. The Chihuahua originated in Mexico's hot desert, so they’re no stranger to warm weather. Their small stature and short coat help them stay comfortable, even in the dog days of summer. The breed’s large, erect ears are more than just adorable. The shape also allows airflow over expanded blood vessels in the thin skin to cool both sides.

The Chihuahua’s small size also makes him a fabulous companion to bring on vacation. Pack up your pooch’s necessities and take off to sunny California. Stay in style at ARRIVE Palm Springs in the heart of downtown. Each room is light, airy and elegantly designed with amenities like minibars and flat-screen TVs.

American Water Spaniel

Having the time of his life. Photo by iStock/Lunja

An American Water Spaniel has a special feature that, despite their long fur, makes them perfect for hot, humid climates. This breed has a protective coat that not only keeps them waterproof, but also protects them from harsh weather conditions. These water-loving athletes are muscular, energetic, and always up for adventure with their humans.

Give your American Water Spaniel the adventure of his dreams with a pet-friendly trip to the Florida Keys. Soul Shine Adventures invites you to experience Florida’s southernmost point through the eyes of a local on a fun-filled charter. Stay at Ambrosia Key West, right in the heart of the city's Old Town Historic District.

Australian Cattle Dog

This dog rocks. Photo by iStock/Tahoetucker.

The Australian Cattle Dog is a livestock guardian breed related to the Dingo, a wild dog that lives in the Australian outback. These medium-sized pups have short coats and lighter coloration to help them stay cool in the heat. Cattle Dogs are highly intelligent and athletic, which makes them great competitors in K9 sports like Disc Dog.

Bring your Cattle Dog to Austin for an adventure he’ll never forget. One of the most pet-friendly cities in the U.S., you’ll find no shortage of activities and restaurants to keep your fun-loving pup entertained in the capital of The Lonestar State. Book a stay at the Aloft Austin Northwest, conveniently located near everything the city has to offer.

Airedale Terrier

Terriers are up for fun in the sun. Photo by iStock/Alex Potemkin

The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the Terrier breeds, and these pretty pups are known to be hard-working, intelligent canines. Because their single coat is short and wiry, they tolerate hot climates well and, alongside most other Terrier types, are usually happy to play outside even when the temperature climbs. Just be sure to keep their coat free from matting, which can trap heat against the skin, and your Airedale Terrier will do quite well digging and frolicking at your side all year round.

If you want to give your Airedale Terrier the chance to put his digging skills to the test, bring him along to one of the only places in the world where he can search for real diamonds. Crater of Diamonds State Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that brings people from all over the world to Murfreesboro, AR, in search of treasure. The nearby Little Shamrock Motel is a budget-friendly place you can call home during your visit, even if you don’t strike it rich in the field.

Catahoula Leopard Dog

At home by you in the bayou. Photo by iStock/madcorona

The Catahoula Leopard Dog originated in the swamps and forests of Louisiana, making them acclimated to heat and humidity. Bred as a hunting and herding dog for the bayous, these canines typically have a smooth, short coat ranging from single colors such as black, red, and yellow, to brindle, or the “leopard” pattern that gives the breed its name. They make wonderful companions for those who like outdoor adventure.

Bring your Catahoula Leopard Dog back to the state where the breed originated to explore one of Louisiana’s enchanting bayous on Zam’s Swamp Tours. Then, cozy up together at A Chateau on the Bayou Bed & Breakfast.

Whippet

Ready to run in the sun. Photo by Mitchell Orr on Unsplash

Whippets are built for speed and agility, but their playful and gentle nature makes them fantastic four-legged companions. These slim sprinters’ slender frame, long snout, and thin, short coat helps to keep them cool and comfortable in the summer sun. They have a large nose and expansive chest cavity, helping to cool the air as they breathe. It’s important to note that their streamlined build doesn’t make them impervious to the effects of heat, so while they certainly prefer the summer sun to a wintery day, even Whippets need plenty of care to stay safe and healthy when the temperatures climb.

Let your Whippet run free at the Frank S. Ortiz Dog Park, one of the world’s largest off-leash dog parks. He will love racing across 138 acres of New Mexico backcountry, featuring incredible views of Santa Fe and the surrounding mountain ranges. The Lodge at Santa Fe offers guests an affordable stay just minutes from the park entrance.

Greyhound

"I'm not just any grey hound, I'm a Greyhound." Photo by BringFido/Amy

With its origins dating back more than 5,000 years to the deserts of Ancient Egypt, the Greyhound has long been adapted to warm climates. Thankfully, their lean bodies, short coats and minimal body fat help them to regulate heat, and their thin skin and efficient cardiovascular system help them to maintain their endurance even when temperatures rise.

Take your Greyhound out for a delicious meal at The Greyhound in Memphis, TN. Located at the pet-friendly Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown Beale Street. During your visit, head to The Outback at Shelby Farms Park, where he can show everyone just how fast he is while playing off leash.

Dalmatian

"The beach forecast is spotty today." Photo by BringFido/Elizabeth

Originating as carriage dogs that would run alongside horses and often recognized as a mascot for fire departments, Dalmatians have spent a lot of time throughout their more than 200-year existence, building endurance and a tolerance for heat. Their short, sleek coats, mostly white with dark spots, reflect sunlight, keeping them cooler than most dark colored breeds. When the breed isn’t chasing squirrels or frolicking on the beach, you can often find them soaking up rays during a nap in the sun. Because their coats are so light, it’s important to protect this sun-loving breed with canine sunscreen.

Spend a weekend with your Dalmatian in Sedona, AZ, and take scenic hikes to awe-inspiring views, or let him feel what it was like for his carriage dog ancestors to ride in the open air with Arizona Safari Jeep Tours. Then, spend the night in a cozy room at Red Agave Resort.