The hot summer months can be dangerous for our beloved canines. While they may initially enjoy the warm outside temperatures, the heat can quickly spell trouble for our furry friends. Whereas some breeds prefer warmer outdoor temperatures, others would much rather laze about inside.
Dog owners need to understand that all breeds react differently to the heat – what is comfortable for one dog may be miserable for another. And this doesn’t just go for the temperatures outdoors, because, without the right temperature in our homes, we could also be causing discomfort, and even harm, to our dogs.
To ensure that you are maintaining a safe and comfortable home, we have compiled a handy list that details dogs and temperatures. This will help you know if adjustments need to be made in your home. You may even find that you need to change the way, in which you care for your dog.
Let’s explore.
Dogs and Temperatures
If you keep your dog on a screened-in patio, there is the potential for trouble. At 75°F, a dog with a thick coat of fur can feel too hot. This is especially true if they are in direct sunlight. The screened-in area will certainly help with airflow, but this may still be highly uncomfortable for breeds with lots of furs.
If the temperature is between 32°F and 70°F, this is prime weather for many canines. Their coat of fur ensures that they stay comfortable, even when we may not be. However, temperatures between 20°F and 32°F can be too cold for dog breeds that are small or have very fine fur.
Healthy dogs that are of medium to large build can safely enjoy colder temperatures for up to half an hour. If the temperature drops below 20°F, however, it could lead to problems.
Temperatures between 0°F and 20°F are too cold for small dogs, and they shouldn’t be outside for any length of time.
Tinier dogs, like teacup dogs, should never be in temperatures below 0°F. If your home ever reaches a point in the winter months that doesn’t suit your dog’s size, you should work to make the room warmer to ensure their safety.
More often than not, you will be able to tell by your dog’s behavior whether they are comfortable in their surroundings.
Breeds that are OK in Hot Weather
Some dog breeds can safely thrive in hot weather. However, this never means it is OK to leave them in a hot car. This can quickly lead to death, so don’t risk it, even for a minute.
Let’s look at the breeds of dogs that can withstand hot temperatures. These are the breeds that are more likely to enjoy the outside environment. If you own one of these breeds, you probably already know how active they can be when let outdoors.
- German shorthaired pointer
- Chesapeake Bay retriever
- Border collie
- American Water Spaniel
- Australian Cattle Dog
- American foxhound
- Great Dane
- Labrador retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Airedale Terrier
- Kuvasz
If you are the owner of any of these dog breeds, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about the temperature of their surroundings. There are, of course, exceptions to the rule. If a hot summer day is remarkably warmer than usual, it’s important to limit their time in the sun.
You will want to ensure that they have plenty of time indoors where it’s cool. Once they have cooled down and relaxed, you can consider taking them back outside for playtime. Alternate this accordingly, and you will have a safe, happy dog.
Breeds that Prefer it a Bit Colder
Now that we’ve seen which dog types do well in the heat, let’s look at some breeds that should be kept indoors in cooler temperatures during the hot summer months. These breeds are more inclined to prefer the confines of your home. Many of them simply don’t like being in the heat for any length of time.
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Bernese mountain dog
- Newfoundland
- Karakachan Bear Dog
- American Eskimo dog
- Norwegian elkhound
- Anatolian Shepherd
- Alaskan malamute
- Shiba Inu
- German shepherd
- Great Pyrenees
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Siberian husky
- Tibetan terrier
- Saint Bernard
- Samoyed
- Kuvasz
- Chow
- Akita
If you own any of these dog breeds, heat could cause them great discomfort or harm. These dogs are often considered indoor dogs and for good reason. Their build and fur type isn’t suitable for warmer temperatures.
If your home is often warm inside and you have one of the above breeds, you should definitely consider finding ways to lower the temperature in your home. This will ensure the safety and well-being of your dog.
If you prefer warmer temperatures, you may want to consider cooling off a single room for them to enjoy. This will help keep energy costs low in the process. Many excellent portable air conditioners work to cool single rooms only if you are concerned about your electric bill.
You may also want to invest in some fans to help circulate air in your home. Stagnant air can cause great discomfort in dogs, so it’s important to keep it moving throughout your home.
If you are on a tight budget and prefer to invest in more affordable cooling options, many on the market won’t break the bank. You will find that the comfort level in your home will be greatly improved, and your dog is likely to be much happier, too.
