What are characteristics of climate-sensitive breeds?
Written by
Elin Eriksson
Reviewed by
Prof. Edward Clarke, Ph.D.Climate-sensitive dogs experience distinct health problems during temperature extremes that require special considerations. I have witnessed the consequences firsthand when my Bulldog client suffered from heat exhaustion because of brief outdoor exercise on a summer day. He became dyspneic and cyanotic. We rushed him to emergency care. This demonstrated to me the great importance of temperature management with susceptible breeds.
Brachycephalic Breeds
- Short-nosed dogs like Pugs and French Bulldogs
- Compromised airways limit heat regulation through panting
- Overheat rapidly above 75°F (24°C)
- Require air-conditioned environments during warm months
Thick-Coated Northern Breeds
- Double-coated dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Insulating fur designed for cold becomes burdensome in heat
- Overheating risk above 70°F (21°C)
- Regular professional grooming essential for temperature control
Cold-Adapted Arctic Breeds
- Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes
- Thrive in sub-zero temperatures but struggle above 65°F (18°C)
- Require special cooling solutions in warm climates
- Paw protection needed on hot pavement in summer
Thin-Coated Southern Breeds
- Greyhounds and Whippets with minimal body fat
- Vulnerable to hypothermia below 45°F (7°C)
- Require insulated coats during winter walks
- Limited cold tolerance despite heat resilience
To meet the demands of my Bulldog client, I take him out on morning walks before the mercury rises. For rations that require going out, I use vests to keep them cool. For in-house enrichment, I utilize puzzle feeders or games that offer learning opportunities. All these things serve to keep them from suffering from heat emergencies and give them their necessary exercise. Heat control is a must when dealing with various breeds.
The changing of the seasons requires special attention. Spring has sudden spikes in temperature that catch owners off guard. I also recommend gradual acclimation, as well as careful attention to water consumption. The winter requires specific types of protection for thin-coated breeds, such as Greyhounds. Insulated types of coats will prevent hypothermia while engaging in outdoor cold-weather activities.
Think transportation is important, too. When transporting climate-sensitive breeds, proper temperature control in vehicles is necessary. When considering trips of this nature, feel the destination's weather patterns. It is inadvisable to move Huskies into hot climates for long periods of time. Their physiologies won't allow them to adapt to the constant heat regardless of conditioning.
Read the full article: 15 Dog Breed Traits You Need to Know
