8 Dog Breeds That Need Special Summer Care

8 Dog Breeds That Need Special Summer Care

Summer brings joy and outdoor adventures for many dog owners, but certain breeds require extra attention and care during the warmer months. While general dog safety tips like providing fresh water and shade apply to all pets, some breeds have specific characteristics that make them more vulnerable to heat stress, sunburn, and overheating. Whether due to thick double coats, lack of hair, short muzzles, or other physical traits, these eight breeds benefit from specialized summer strategies. Understanding your dog’s needs can help ensure they stay healthy, comfortable, and happy throughout the season.

1. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a small, playful breed distinguished by tall ears and large, round eyes. This breed comes in two varieties: hairless or longhaired. The longhaired variety boasts silky hair covering its entire body, while the hairless version has hair only on its head, feet, and tail.

The hairless Chinese Crested requires special attention during summer months. Because breeds without hair or with light hair and fair skin are prone to sunburn, these dogs need dog sunscreen whenever they venture outside. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided. Using body lotion on a hairless Crested can also help keep the skin soft and protected from the elements.

2. Maltese

Confident, playful, and alert, the Maltese boasts a long, silky coat that captures the attention of breed enthusiasts and pet parents alike. While this coat is undoubtedly lovely, it becomes cumbersome during the summer months. The coat requires regular grooming and is particularly prone to matting in warm, humid conditions.

To help your Maltese beat the heat, consider giving your dog a “puppy cut” during summer months. This style trims the long coat short, reducing the burden of grooming while allowing better heat regulation. The shorter coat helps prevent matting while keeping your Maltese more comfortable in warm weather.

3. Alaskan Malamute

Friendly, playful, and patient, the Alaskan Malamute makes an excellent family companion. However, this large breed may struggle to keep up with extremely active families in warm weather. These dogs were bred for cold climates and have dense coats that work as natural insulation.

Interestingly, the breed’s thick double coat actually helps them avoid overheating by providing insulation. However, owners living in warmer climates should limit outdoor time when temperatures soar. Prolonged time outside and exposure to hot asphalt or sand should be avoided, as these can burn their sensitive paws. Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.

4. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are beloved family companions known for their friendly, gentle temperament. Despite their love for outdoor activities and water, these dogs have thick double coats that require special attention during summer months. Their coat, while beautiful, can trap heat and make them uncomfortable in high temperatures.

Golden Retrievers need regular breaks from heat and should have constant access to shade and fresh water. Exercise should be limited during the hottest parts of the day. Consider scheduling walks and outdoor play during early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.

5. Saint Bernard

Originally bred to rescue explorers and travelers stuck in avalanches and snowdrifts in the Alps, the Saint Bernard’s coat was designed to keep them warm in sub-zero temperatures. This thick coat works against them in warmer weather. The breed’s coat can be either short or long, but it is extremely dense regardless of length and prone to significant shedding.

When heading outdoors with your Saint Bernard during summer, keep plenty of shade and water available. Consistently monitor the temperature to ensure it doesn’t become too warm for your dog. These gentle giants can quickly become uncomfortable in heat, so vigilance is essential for their safety and comfort.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is another breed originally from a cooler climate. These dogs have thick, double coats that made them well-suited for Alpine mountain work but leave them uncomfortable in summer heat. Because of their coat thickness, Bernese Mountain Dogs may be uncomfortable in warm weather and should only be exercised during the cooler parts of the day.

Early morning walks or late evening strolls are ideal for this breed. Like all dogs, the pads of the Bernese Mountain Dog’s feet can be burned by hot concrete or tar roads in summer. Whenever possible, walk your dog on grass or dirt to keep their feet from burning. Protective dog booties can also be helpful during particularly hot periods.

7. Boxer

A breed that originated as a bull-baiting animal, the Boxer has since become a popular military, police, and family dog with a loving and dedicated personality. Although Boxers genuinely enjoy summertime activities with their families, they require special summer care due to their physical characteristics.

Boxers have shorter muzzles, which means they may not pant as effectively as other breeds and can be more prone to heat exhaustion as a result. Ensure your Boxer has regular access to fresh water and plenty of breaks to rest during warm weather. Brachycephalic breeds like Boxers are particularly vulnerable to overheating, so extra caution is warranted during summer months.

8. Old English Sheepdog

Developed as a herding dog in 19th century England, the affectionate and playful Old English Sheepdog has huge amounts of long, shaggy hair. This luxurious coat is part of the breed’s charm but presents challenges during warm months. The thick coat can easily trap heat and lead to overheating.

Many owners choose to trim and scissor down their Old English Sheepdog’s coat during summer, which can help them enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, like herding, in warmer weather. The shorter summer coat allows for better air circulation and heat dissipation while maintaining the breed’s characteristic appearance.

General Summer Safety Tips for Heat-Sensitive Breeds

Beyond breed-specific recommendations, all dogs benefit from these general summer safety practices:

Exercise Timing

Although exercise is essential for all breeds, it’s important to keep your dog from over-extending itself in the heat. When temperatures soar, consider taking your long walks early in the morning or after the sun sets. Look for training or activity classes that are held indoors during peak heat hours. This adjustment helps prevent heat exhaustion and maintains your dog’s fitness level.

Hydration and Shade

While outdoors, make sure your dog has plenty of access to shade and fresh water at all times. Dehydration can occur quickly in warm weather, particularly in heat-sensitive breeds. Bring water and a portable bowl on all outdoor outings, and seek out shaded areas for rest breaks.

Recognizing Overheating

Learn to recognize the signs of overheating in your dog, including excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or lethargy. If your dog appears to be overheating, apply cool, wet cloths to their feet, head, and belly. Move them to a cooler location immediately and monitor their condition closely.

Paw Protection

Hot pavement, asphalt, and sand can burn your dog’s sensitive paw pads. When possible, walk on grass or dirt. Consider using protective booties during particularly hot periods, or test the pavement with your own hand before walking your dog—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Understanding Dogs and Heat Regulation

Dogs cool themselves differently than humans. While people have sweat glands distributed across their skin, dogs rely primarily on panting to cool down. Dogs also have a smaller number of sweat glands located mainly on their paw pads. This means they are less efficient at cooling themselves in high temperatures and more prone to heat exhaustion and dehydration than humans.

Dogs are generally comfortable resting between 45–80°F, but their ideal activity range is around 65–75°F. Temperatures above this range, particularly combined with humidity, can pose serious health risks for heat-sensitive breeds.

Grooming Considerations for Summer

While it might seem logical to shave a heat-sensitive dog’s coat for summer, this isn’t always recommended. Many double-coated breeds benefit from keeping their full coat intact, as the coat works as insulation and can actually help prevent overheating. However, regular brushing to remove loose undercoat can improve air circulation without removing the protective outer layer.

For breeds like the Maltese and Old English Sheepdog, trimming to shorter lengths can be beneficial. Always consult with a professional groomer to determine the best approach for your specific breed and individual dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: At what temperature should I stop exercising my heat-sensitive dog?

A: While dogs are generally comfortable resting between 45–80°F, exercise should be limited when temperatures exceed the ideal activity range of 65–75°F. During particularly hot days, restrict vigorous exercise and opt for short, gentle walks during cooler morning and evening hours.

Q: Can I shave my double-coated breed to help them stay cool?

A: Generally, it’s not recommended to shave double-coated breeds. Their coat provides insulation and helps regulate body temperature. Instead, regular brushing to remove loose undercoat and keeping them in cooler environments is more beneficial. Consult your veterinarian before making significant grooming changes.

Q: How can I tell if my dog is overheating?

A: Signs of overheating include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse. If you notice these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately, provide fresh water, and apply cool (not cold) cloths to their body. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

Q: Do hairless dog breeds need sunscreen?

A: Yes, hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested are very prone to sunburn. Apply dog-specific sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever they venture outside during daylight hours, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Q: What’s the best time to walk my dog in summer?

A: Early morning (before 10 AM) and late evening (after 6 PM) are ideal times to walk heat-sensitive dogs. Avoid midday walks when temperatures are at their peak and the sun is strongest.

Q: Can heat-sensitive breeds go swimming in summer?

A: Swimming can be an excellent way for heat-sensitive dogs to cool down and exercise in summer. However, always supervise swimming, ensure fresh water is available for drinking, and rinse off chlorine or salt water after swimming.

Q: Should I provide my dog with a cooling bed or mat?

A: Yes, cooling beds and mats can help heat-sensitive dogs stay comfortable during summer. These beds use gel or water technology to provide a cool surface without requiring electricity, making them a safe and effective option for managing heat.