Thanks to transmigration, international trade, and cross-breeding techniques, the world is now home to more breeds that were non-existent a hundred (or even ten) years ago. Some new breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2016 include the Sloughi, the American hairless terrier, and the Pumi.
While fluffy dogs are preferred for domestication because they look like stuffed toys, they are best to thrive in temperate climates. The reason is obvious: the furry coat shields them from the harshness of winter.
These days, hairy breeds have also made their way into tropical countries. Unfortunately, these furry dogs have to struggle so much with them having to adapt to the tropical climate. Hot weather is very unhealthy to these breeds and can cause for an early onset of disease.
Tropical climates provide excellent breeding grounds for viruses, bacteria, ticks and lice that temperate climate-breeds have no shield against. And because they have thick and long coats, they are highly susceptible to ticks, lice, and overheating.
Although it can be a challenge, Good Morning America’s Dr. Marty Becker says that it can be possible for anyone living in hot climate areas to care for a dog that isn’t built for such conditions. However, this should only be done if the right precautions are followed. Otherwise, it will be best to “wait until your circumstances are different.”
What then are the best dog breeds for hot climates?
Before we get to the breeds, here is a list of recommended attributes that you need to take note of. Races with the following characteristics can live through hot climates with no problems:
- Short and thin coat: this type of coating allows for better breathability for the dog. It also shields him/her from ticks and lice that are highly prevalent in tropical countries.
- High level of activity: for dogs to survive in hot weather, they need to move a lot to “sweat” it out. Therefore, breeds that lean towards having a high energy can live well in tropical countries. Hunting dogs have the need to do high-energy activities.
- Healthy cardiovascular capacity: while a healthy cardiovascular system can be earned through proper diet and exercise, some breeds are vulnerable to cardiac problems. These breeds are not recommended in tropical countries as they cannot withstand consistently high temperatures—unless they stay in air-conditioned areas which are unhealthy, too.
The list below gives you the top three best dog breeds for hot climates. As you will see, all of them share the three traits mentioned above (short and thin coat, high level of activity, and strong cardiovascular capacity):
- German Short-haired Pointer
German Short-haired Pointers are extremely loyal dogs. They do not hesitate to show affection to their owners by wanting to follow them wherever they go, and by licking their faces when they’re excited. They are easy to train and can make for good hunting dogs. They are also low maintenance with their water-resistant coat that can grow to a maximum of less than an inch long.
You should be willing to commit to taking care of this breed as these dogs live long, well beyond their teenage years.
- Border Collie
Border Collies are highly active dogs that love to play with their owners. They can catch ball and Frisbee, and enjoy tug-of-war games with their owners. They are obedient and are easy to train. However, they tend to be very playful and energetic and so is not recommended when you have infants at home, or when you have a small living space.
This breed became even more famous when it was featured in the movie, “Babe.”
- Golden Retriever
If you have a family and have good access to the beach or lake, Golden Retriever is the best choice for you. Golden Retrievers are loving dogs that like to be caressed by their owners. They also want to be shown appreciation for the obedience and sweetness they show their owners. They have water resistant coats that are easy to clean and trim. And they are easy to train, making them excellent K9 police dogs. However, they should be taught well at a young age because they tend to become too playful when excited, killing up the game instead of just retrieving them.
The Golden Retriever is one of the most world-renowned and preferred breeds. It’s even ranked 3rd as the most popular breed by the American Kennel Club.
If you’re thinking of having a dog, make sure you consider the breed’s viability in tropical weather. You should also look into health insurance options for your dog, so you have your pet covered wherever you go. These considerations will ensure a happy and healthy life not only for your dog but also for you and your family.
References:
American Kennel Club. Dog Breeds.
PetMD. Dog Breedopedia.
