Dogs are adaptable animals and almost any breed can be found living in any climate in the world. However, some are much better suited to living in certain climates than others. Much like a Husky prefers the cold, there are breeds of dog that thrive in warmer climates.

After thousands of years of evolution and selective breeding, some dogs are better suited for hot temperatures. If you live in a warm climate and are interested in owning a dog, here are some breeds that will love the sun alongside you.

Great Dane

These gentle giants don’t seem like an obvious choice for warm conditions, but they’re very well suited for it. With a short, slick coat this giant breed is naturally dispositioned to conserve energy. Despite their large size Great Danes are notorious couch potatoes who love lounging around. This means they aren’t likely to overly exert themselves in the heat, which reduces risk of heat stroke and other heat related illnesses.

Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler)

If you’re wanting a (much) more high energy companion then look no further than the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as a blue heeler. This incredibly active herding breed sports a double coat that helps them cool off in warm weather – and as you can imagine, it gets quite hot in Australia where the breed originated. Don’t be surprised when the heat doesn’t slow them down and be prepared to have games and toys for mental stimulation when it’s too hot for you – or the weather just doesn’t permit outdoor activity.

Chihuahua

If you’re looking for something small, then the Chihuahua may be the perfect dog for you. Originating in the Mexican desert, this breed is tiny, thin coated, and has large ears to help dispel heat. They are happy to keep you company in and outside of the house, not needing much outside of some water and shade to keep them cool in the summer. Unlike larger breeds, Chihuahuas aren’t known for their activity level and prefer to be carried rather than go on hikes.

Greyhound

The perfect large breed dog with medium energy that may be just what you’re looking for in a warm climate. Greyhounds are lean with very thin coats and skin that allows them to easily regulate their body temperature in hot climates. Their athletic bodies mean they can keep up with an active lifestyle, but ordinarily they enjoy one good romp a day and then are happy to take a leisurely stroll – making them very low maintenance if you’re hitting a busy period in life.