How easily can dogs get heat stroke?
It’s easy for our pets to overheat in warm weather. Unlike us, they can’t remove layers when it gets Read More
What dog breeds are more susceptible to heat stroke?
Frances Schroeder
2025-11-04 14:01:23
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We found that nine breeds, in particular, had a significantly higher risk of heatstroke compared to labrador retrievers: chow chow (17 times more likely to suffer from heatstroke) bulldog (14 times more likely) French bulldog (six times) French mastiff (five times) greyhound (four times) cavalier King Charles spaniel (three times) pug (three times) English springer spaniel (three times) golden retriever (three times). Most of the breeds at higher risk of heatstroke are brachycephalic (flat-faced). Brachycephalic dogs are more likely to overheat because they often already struggle to breathe, even at rest. The chow chows and golden retrievers also had increased risk of heatstroke because of their thick “double coats”. Heavy dogs also showed an increased risk of heatstroke. Large dogs, in general, were more likely to develop heatstroke than dogs under 10kg, with giant breed dogs (weighing over 50kg) three times more likely to develop heatstroke. Dogs aged over two years old were also at greater risk, with elderly dogs (over 12 years) most likely to develop heatstroke.
Sheila Cummings
2025-10-26 17:02:06
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Brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers have a harder time regulating their body temperature, making them more prone to heatstroke. Brachycephalic dogs are particularly susceptible to heatstroke.
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If you notice signs and symptoms of heat stroke in yourself, you should call 911 or your local emerg Read More
Malika Hirthe
2025-10-22 04:25:00
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Here are some dog breeds that are particularly susceptible to hot weather.
Akitas have a low tolerance for heat.
The Alaskan Malamute was bred to pull heavy loads in freezing Alaskan temperatures.
This makes them one of the best dog breeds for cold weather, but one of the worst for hot climates.
Boston Terriers don’t have a thick fur coat, but they are brachycephalic, meaning they have a short muzzle that makes it difficult for these dogs to cool themselves off by panting.
Because Boxers are brachycephalic and have high energy levels, they tend to overheat easily.
Chow Chows are not well suited for hot weather due to their thick double coat and heavy build.
The flat face of an English Bulldog makes this breed prone to overheating.
Another short-muzzled breed, French Bulldogs cannot effectively cool down through panting.
Pekingese can’t tolerate hot weather because they have a long, thick coat and because they’re brachycephalic.
Despite the Pug’s short fur and compact size, they don’t do well in hot weather because of their flat face.
Originally from the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards were bred for cold-weather rescue work, thanks to the thick coat that protects them in the mountain snow, Saint Bernards can struggle in hot and humid climates.
Ethan O'Reilly
2025-10-17 09:54:21
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Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers) are more susceptible due to their breathing difficulties. Overweight dogs or those with thick coats. High humidity, which hampers the effectiveness of panting, can also increase the risk for any dog. Excessive exercise during hot weather is another factor that can lead to heat stroke in dogs.
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Heat stroke happens when excess heat overwhelms your body’s built-in system for cooling itself. You Read More
Will a dog with heat stroke drink water?
Panting can progress to distressed or noisy breathing as the heatstroke worsens, restlessness or agi Read More
Gustave Carroll
2025-10-06 13:59:05
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Research has revealed that four of the UK’s favourite dog breeds are at high risk of heat stroke from temperatures of 20C and above. The Kennel Store research also showed that a further five breeds had a medium risk of developing heat stroke at those temperatures. These are the dog breeds at the highest risk of heat stroke: High Risk Border Collie Springer Spaniel Labradoodle French Bulldog Medium Risk Labrador Retriever Cockapoo English Cocker Spaniel German Shepherd Dog Golden Retriever. A Kennel Store expert said: During heatwaves, dogs with particular features are more susceptible to heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses, specifically French Bulldogs, Labradoodles, Springer Spaniels and Border Collies. Cockapoos, German Shepherds and the nation’s favourite Labrador Retriever - amongst other breeds - are also at medium risk of suffering through the heat wave. The features that increase a dogs risk include having thick fur, short muzzles, and preferring cold climates.
Presley Larson
2025-10-03 04:22:20
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British researchers determined that certain breeds, as well as those that are older and/or overweight, may be more likely to suffer from the heat-related illness than others.
In general, most at risk are dogs that weigh more than 110 pounds, and also breeds with flat faces — such as pugs and French bulldogs — according to the study in Scientific Reports.
The breeds identified at highest risk of heatstroke were:
Chow chow
Bulldog
French bulldog
Dogue de Bordeaux
Greyhound
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Pug
Golden retriever
Springer spaniel
Chow chows, for example, were 16 times more likely to develop heat stroke compared to Labradors.
Flat-faced breeds, such as bulldogs, are especially vulnerable because their breathing is compromised by the shape of their skulls, Hall explained.
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Most dogs are comfortable at temperatures between 15-25°C, but this is very much dependent on their Read More
How to avoid a dog from getting heat stroke?
Limit activity to the cooler times of the day. Provide access to shady areas. Avoid strenuous exer Read More
Felipe Hoeger
2025-09-19 08:22:09
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: 18
Brachycephalic dogs face a higher risk of heat-related issues due to their distinctive respiratory tract structure, making them more prone to heatstroke – a severe, potentially fatal condition. These breeds, like Bulldogs and Pugs, have shorter noses and elongated soft palates, complicating their breathing process and making it harder for them to regulate body temperature. Their shortened airways restrict airflow, increasing their susceptibility to overheating and heatstroke compared to other breeds. Brachycephalic dogs, with their unique flat faces and short noses, are particularly susceptible to heat-related problems. Practicing heat safety for flat-faced breeds like brachycephalic dogs is particularly important due to their respiratory structure.