Paw Safety Check
Which Dogs Are Most at Risk in Hot Weather?
All dogs can overheat, but some are far more vulnerable than others. If your dog falls into one of the higher-risk groups below, treat hot-weather walks with extra caution - and lean on cool hours and shade rather than pushing through.
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds
Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, and flat-faced breeds simply can’t move air as efficiently. Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Shih Tzus and similar breeds are at much higher risk of heatstroke and should avoid exertion in the heat altogether. Even mild heat can be dangerous for them.
Thick-coated and dark-coated dogs
Huskies, Malamutes, Chow Chows, Bernese Mountain Dogs and other heavy-coated breeds trap heat, while dark coats absorb more solar radiation and warm up faster in direct sun. Never shave a double coat to “cool” it - it protects against sunburn and heat; instead, manage timing and shade.
Age, weight and health
Puppies and senior dogs regulate temperature less well. Overweight dogs, and those with heart or airway conditions, also overheat faster. If your dog is in any of these groups, shorten hot-weather walks and watch closely.
Small dogs and the pavement
Small and short-legged dogs sit closer to the ground, so they feel radiated pavement heat more directly than tall dogs - and a hot surface is a larger share of their world. Toy breeds also dehydrate quickly. Carrying a small dog across short hot stretches is perfectly reasonable.
What higher-risk dogs need
- Cool-hour walks only - see the best times to walk in summer
- Plenty of shade and fresh water
- Short sessions with rest breaks
- Close monitoring for heatstroke signs: heavy panting, drooling, wobbliness, bright-red gums
- A quick pavement check before heading out
Frequently asked questions
Which dog breeds overheat the fastest?
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs and Boxers overheat fastest because they can’t pant efficiently. Heavy double-coated breeds such as Huskies also struggle in heat.
Are black dogs hotter in the sun?
Yes - dark coats absorb more solar radiation and heat up faster in direct sun, so dark-coated dogs need extra shade and cool-hour walks.
Do small dogs feel pavement heat more?
They sit closer to the ground, so they feel radiated heat more directly, and hot surfaces make up a larger part of their environment. Carrying them over short hot stretches is sensible.