It’s February, and you’re in Florida with your dog enjoying the beautiful balmy weather. Now it’s August and the weather is like a firey furnace!  Although most breeds can live in hot climates with the proper care, some breeds do much better in hot weather. Dogs living in areas known for hot temperates need special care because they cannot handle the temperature extremes the way people can. When you adopt a dog, consider his outdoor environment and how much time he will be spending outdoors. When selecting a breed for hot climates, consider the following:

• Size
• Hair coat
• Facial conformation

Panting is one method that dogs use to cool off. Breeds with pushed in noses and short faces such as English Bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese and boxers, tend to have a more difficult time in a hot climate.

Giant dog breeds such as Newfoundlands and St. Bernard’s cannot handle exercise in hot weather as well as smaller dogs can. They are prone to sluggishness and obesity.

Some dogs that do well in hot weather are:

• Beagles
• Schnauzers
• Parson Russel Terriers
• Greyhounds
• Border Collie
• Dobermen Pinchers
• Whippets
• Italian Greyhounds

Always make sure that his dog water bowl is filled at all times, especially during hot weather.