15 Dog Breeds That Can’t Handle the Summer Heat
When temperatures rise, these pups prefer to stay inside.
When the dog days of summer roll around, you’re likely not the only one looking for ways to keep cool—your four-legged friend is, too.
While some dog breeds thrive in the heat of the day, not all dogs are built to withstand climbing temperatures. For these pups, you’ll need to stay extra vigilant for signs of overheating.
Here are some breeds that prefer to doze by the AC instead of in the sunshine.
Key Takeaways
- Some dog breeds are more sensitive to heat than others because of their physical traits, such as a flat face or thick double coat.
- Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are especially prone to overheating in the summer.
- Double-coated breeds like Alaskan Malamutes and Saint Bernards are better suited for cooler climates.
- Pet parents should monitor their dog for signs of overheating as temperatures rise.
1. Affenpinscher
Size: Small
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
Temperament: Inquisitive, loyal, spunky
The Affenpinscher is ready to be your sidekick in any adventure—but in summer, keep your outings to the cooler times of day. Like other brachycephalic breeds, the short, square muzzle of the Affenpinscher means this pup has a harder time regulating body temperature in sweltering heat.
The good news is that this small dog loves mental stimulation as much as physical activity. Affenpinschers enjoy solving puzzles or playing indoor games like hide-and-seek.
2. Akita
Size: Extra-large
Life Expectancy: 10–14 years
Temperament: Intelligent, introverted, loyal
Big and brawny Akitas have a long heritage as Japanese hunting dogs and guardians. This breed has a thick double coat that protects against cold winter weather—including in their native homeland in northern Japan. When summer rolls around, that plush coat can become uncomfortably warm. Regular brushing helps remove loose undercoat and improves airflow to the skin.
3. Alaskan Malamute
Size: Large
Life Expectancy: 10–14 years
Temperament: Friendly, playful, independent
The Alaskan Malamute feels right at home in big snowdrifts—they were originally bred to pull heavy loads across frozen terrain in Alaska. But a summer heat wave is far less tolerable for this double-coated working dog.
Their dense coat acts like a well-insulated parka: excellent for retaining warmth and repelling moisture, but poorly suited to sweltering temperatures. Malamutes love to work and explore outdoors, so they’re best matched with homes in colder or moderate climates.
During warmer months, plan outdoor exercise for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lowest.
4. Boston Terrier
Size: Small
Life Expectancy: 11–13 years
Temperament: Bubbly, happy-go-lucky, outgoing
Boston Terriers are adaptable dogs, making them a perfect fit for nearly any living situation—as long as you remember they don’t handle summer heat well.
Though Bostons have a short, smooth coat, their brachycephalic anatomy means intense exercise during high heat and humidity is unsafe. Fortunately, they’re enthusiastic participants in indoor fun: fetch in the living room, treat-based puzzle games, or spirited play sessions with favorite toys—all available through furpetvo.com.
5. Boxer
Size: Large
Life Expectancy: 11–13 years
Temperament: Loyal, life of the party, fearless
Boxers are athletic, affectionate, and intelligent—a superstar family dog. They make great jogging partners and excel in canine sports like agility and tracking.
But their characteristically flat face limits efficient panting and heat dissipation, meaning long workouts in hot weather are risky. Always plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day—and ensure access to cold water and air conditioning.
6. Chow Chow
Size: Large
Life Expectancy: 8–12 years
Temperament: Bright, loyal, stoic
One glance at the Chow Chow’s thick, fluffy double coat tells you this breed isn’t built for peak summer heat.
The good news? Chow Chows are surprisingly low-energy and content with minimal daily movement. A few short walks—ideally at dawn or dusk—will keep them healthy and comfortable.
7. English Bulldog
Size: Medium
Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
Temperament: Charming, cuddly, silly
The English Bulldog prefers life in the slow lane—especially when temperatures climb—because its brachycephalic structure raises the risk of overheating.
It may be easy to keep this laid-back dog indoors all day, but gentle indoor exercise (like short stair climbs or toy-based play) is essential to prevent weight gain and maintain joint health.
8. French Bulldog
Size: Small
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
Temperament: Quirky, bubbly, BFF
The French Bulldog is one of America’s most beloved breeds—and thrives in both bustling urban apartments and quiet suburban yards. But when summer heat arrives, prioritize cooling strategies: provide a shaded, air-conditioned retreat and schedule walks for early morning or evening.
9. Great Pyrenees
Size: Extra large
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
Temperament: Confident, serene, smart
That magnificent, thick white coat makes the Great Pyrenees look like a polar bear—and function like one, too. Built for guarding flocks in snowy mountain regions, this breed is over-insulated for hot weather.
These calm, outdoorsy dogs flourish in cooler or temperate climates. When temperatures soar, keep them indoors with fans, cooling mats, and plenty of fresh water.
10. Japanese Chin
Size: Small
Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
Temperament: Strong-willed, bright, amusing
As a brachycephalic breed, the Japanese Chin struggles with summer heat and humidity. These regal lap dogs much prefer lounging in cool, air-conditioned spaces.
They’re ideal for apartments or condos—requiring little roaming space. A few short walks plus daily indoor play sessions keep them physically and mentally fulfilled.
11. Newfoundland
Size: Extra-large
Life Expectancy: 9–10 years
Temperament: Charming, friendly, patient
Newfoundlands were born to swim—not sunbathe. Their thick, water-repellent double coat lets them work comfortably in icy Canadian waters, but traps heat in warm climates.
In hot weather, watch closely for signs of overheating. If you have safe access to a pool, lake, or even a backyard doggy pool (available at furpetvo.com), these water-loving giants will happily splash and cool off.
12. Norwegian Elkhound
Size: Medium
Life Expectancy: 12–15 years
Temperament: Loyal, versatile, intelligent
Dogs don’t sweat like humans—and breeds with thick, plush coats like the Norwegian Elkhound struggle to release heat efficiently in summer. Their dense fur insulates year-round, making hot days especially taxing.
Keeping these active, intelligent dogs engaged while avoiding heat stress requires creativity: indoor scent games, short shaded walks, or training sessions in an air-conditioned garage or basement can help meet their physical and mental needs safely.
