Does your dog hate the heat? As the sweltering and hazy dog days of summer arrive, dogs who are sensitive to humidity and heat may grow lethargic and are often more than happy to sit in an air-conditioned home all day.

What may seem like a natural response to heat can be a serious problem for some breeds. Here are FIVE breeds of dogs who do NOT thrive in the hot weather and what you can do to keep them cool.

Chow Chow

Originally hailing from the snowy mountain tops of northern China, the Chow Chow has a sturdy, solid build and a dense double coat. This ancient breed predates almost all modern breeds and are both calm and self-sufficient.

These dogs are built for colder temperatures and don’t do well at all in humid environments for extended periods. Although their double coat allows them to regulate temperature, it can become damaged and matted if not properly maintained. Chow Chow’s require consistent grooming and maintenance of their coat for cool air to reach their skin. Chow Chow owners may be tempted to shave their pup’s thick coats during the summer months, but this is not recommended, as it could contribute to skin problems and sun burns.

If you have a Chow Chow, you’ll want to limit the amount of time they spend outside during peak temperatures. If they need to be outside, make sure to provide a shaded area at all times. Grooming is key to keeping this breed happy all year-round but can be a literal lifesaver in the warmer months.

Pomeranian

Originally from the Polish/German Spitz family of dogs, Pomeranians have been tremendously popular since Queen Victoria popularized them in the 18th century.

Due to their small size, these dogs don’t generally require a great deal of time outdoors, and a couple of short walks each day usually suffices. Like the Chow Chow, Pomeranians have a double coat, which gives them some protection from colder weather. It also makes warmer weather somewhat unbearable.

If you have a Pomeranian, make sure that you’re limiting time spent outdoors, providing plenty of water, and always providing shade to help them cool down. Walks earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon or evening will help you avoid the highest temperatures of the day and make the walk a more comfortable experience for your Pom. Also, like with Chow Chows, owners may want to resist the urge to give their pup a summer haircut, as it may not be the best option for your double-coated pup.

Boxer

Boxers trace their lineage back nearly 4000 years, but the modern version was originally bred as hunting and working dogs in Germany during the 19th century, descending from the Mastiff family.

These dogs have just one very short coat, making both hot and cold weather somewhat problematic. The general lack of fat and structure of the Boxer’s build also makes self-regulation of body temperature difficult. They also have a short muzzle, making breathing a chore at times, especially during over-exertion.

If you have a Boxer, you are probably aware of their high-energy levels and playfulness. During warmer months, make sure that they are taking plenty of breaks between play sessions, and limit active time to 20-to-30-minute windows. Additionally, a Boxer’s short coat makes them susceptible to sunburn, so try to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible.

Pug

Considered one of the oldest dog breeds on earth, Pugs trace their lineage back to China in 700 BC. Usually the pets of royalty, this breed was held in high esteem, which eventually led to their import to Europe in the 16th century. They were popularized in Europe by famous owners such as Napoleon Bonaparte.

Pugs are a brachycephalic (bra-​ki-​ˈse-​fə-​lē) breed, meaning their physiological make-up can at times restrict breathing. They also have short coats that do a poor job of regulating body temperature, especially in extreme conditions. These two factors make Pugs sensitive to heat and humidity, and any temperature over 80 degrees/F can be dangerous.

To keep your Pug safe in the hot weather, limit their time outside. Aim for short, 15-20 minute windows of exercise, and avoid direct sun as often as possible. Pugs are susceptible to heatstroke, and it can happen very quickly after the first symptoms, such as persistent panting or heavy breathing, appear. Make sure your pug has access to fresh water at all times, and consider giving them a towel soaked in cool water to lay on; this will help regulate body temperature.

Alaskan Malamute

One of the oldest sled dogs known to mankind, Alaskan Malamutes migrated to North America with the Mahlemuts tribe over 4,000 years ago. Their incredible ability to adapt to their environment allowed them to flourish in snowy climate as sled dogs, proving vital to the survival of their human counterparts.

The Alaskan Malamute has a thick, double coat, which serves well as insulation and allows the breed to thrive in colder temperatures. However, anything over 70 degrees/F usually spells discomfort. They will also begin their fall shedding in late summer; here’s how to prepare for it!

While Alaskan Malamutes are adaptable to warmer climates, it’s still important to take special care of them during the warmer months of the year. If you are spending an extended period outdoors, make sure you provide plenty of water and shade. Alaskan Malamutes can become overheated very quickly and will need regular breaks during exercise.

Conclusion

No matter what the breed of your dog is, it’s important to keep them safe when the temperature goes up. Here’s how you can help your pup beat the heat, and here’s how you can promote hydration! Staying vigilant, watching for signs of heatstroke, and monitoring your dog’s exercise are all keys to keeping them happy and healthy during the warmer months!