With summer comes heat stroke for our dogs. However, although heat stroke can affect all dogs, there are breeds that are more vulnerable than others for different reasons and may be more prone to suffering from it. We will tell you what these breeds are so that you pay more attention.
Which dogs are prone to heat stroke?
Even if we take special care, heatstroke can always affect your dog.
You know, dogs do not regulate their temperature as we do. They do it through the sweating of their pads and panting.
One of the recommendations we make to make your dog happy in summer is to avoid the hottest hours to take him for a walk and always provide him with fresh water.
You should know that, in general, older and younger dogs tend to suffer more from heat stroke.
In addition, those with darker hair or brachiocephalic breeds (those with flat noses) are especially vulnerable to it.
Below, we will specify the breeds that are more prone to heatstroke.
Pug
In these dogs, it is common for breathing difficulties to arise, making them a target for heatstroke. In addition, if they are dark-haired, the matter is aggravated. It is best to let them rest quietly on days of intense heat and avoid physical activity.
Alaskan Malamute
This is an example of another type of breed that is also prone to heatstroke. We are referring to dog breeds from mountainous regions. These dogs have a long and thick coat to cope well with the cold in winter, but in summer it is a problem.
Chow Chow
Many people think that shaving these dogs in the summer is a good idea, but they are wrong: leaving their skin uncovered can cause serious sunburn.
Pomerania
This dog has the same hair condition as the previous one. It is very important to brush it and avoid haircuts. In addition, its short muzzle can also make breathing difficult in high temperatures.
Shih Tzu
When it comes to the Shih Tzu, their lengthy coat can actually work to their advantage when it comes to regulating their body temperature. Even with a trim, their coat can provide insulation to help them stay comfortable. However, due to their short snout, this breed is particularly susceptible to heatstroke since they are unable to breathe as easily as other dogs.
English Bulldog
The bulldog is the breed most likely to suffer from heatstroke. It belongs to the brachycephalic breeds, or what is the same, with a flat face.
This breed is prone to suffering from serious respiratory problems, which in the summer are aggravated. They usually find it hard to breathe when they exert themselves too much, especially in the heat.
St. Bernard and Bernese Mountain Dog
Two other cases similar to the Alaskan Malamute. They are dogs that come from cold areas, and, as such, they adapt well to low temperatures. However, in summer, special attention should be paid to them.
French Bulldog
Because of their flat muzzle and tiny windpipe, they have trouble breathing and are prone to choking, so be cautious around them all year, but especially in the summer!
Boston Terrier
Very similar to the French Bulldog, although it is less resistant to physical exercise. Even so, he has the same breathing difficulties and is very prone to heatstroke.
Boxer
These dogs have endless energy! However, this, coupled with their short muzzles, endangers their health. They must be forced to rest and drink water so that they don't end up suffering from heatstroke.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This breed also has a short muzzle that makes breathing difficult. In addition, as in the case of the Pug, it is prone to putting on weight, which does not help at all in times of intense heat.
Pekingese
This little dog has the same problem as his friends with a small muzzle. In addition, their long hair does not help them cope well with the heat in summer.
Do you have any of these furries at home? So, now that you know, keep an eye out for any signs of heat stroke in them and treat them!