Dog Breeds Suited To Humid Atlanta Living

Living in Atlanta is all about becoming okay with the sweltering, stuffy, all-encompassing heat and humidity that is characteristic of Southern summers. Even cooler weather is not immune to humidity, and the dampness in the air seeps into your bones no matter the temperature. 

While us humans are able to regulate our temperature with our sweat glands, our dogs aren’t quite as lucky. The only sweat glands that dogs possess are found in-between the pads on their paws, so most of the time they rely on panting to keep themselves cool.

Dogs with thick coats and long hair have a hard time keeping cool in this kind of humidity, so it’s important to consider what type of dogs are best suited to living here in the South. 

Characteristics of heat-tolerant dogs

It’ll be impossible to list every breed of dog out there that’s suited to hot weather, but we can certainly identify some of their characteristics! Keep in mind that not all of these characteristics have to be present in a dog at the same time, but the more of them a dog has, the more resistant to heat they will be. 

• Short coat: a short coat is a must for heat-resistant dogs. A short coat will keep the dog cool and regulated, even in hot and humid temperatures, and dogs with little to no hair are even better suited to the humid heat! A double-coat will also keep them insulated from both the heat and the cold!
• Low bodyweight: The less body fat a dog has, the more easily they are able to regulate their body temperature. Long-legged dogs and dogs with lithe, lean bodies can cool off quickly, despite the heat and humidity.
• Large ears: Fun fact, dogs can use their ears to regulate their body temperature! Through a process called vasodilation, dogs can expand the blood vessels in their ears and face to bring the blood closer to the air, where it cools down before traveling back into the body. The bigger the ears, the more they’re able to cool down!
• White or light fur: Dark fur absorbs heat, while light fur reflects it! A dog with short, light hair is much better at staying cool than a dog with long, dark fur. 

Another important characteristic to keep in mind is a dog’s energy level. If you live in an apartment, then you’ll definitely have to take into account how much energy a dog needs to stay healthy and happy. The American Hairless Terrier, for example, has almost all the characteristics of being incredibly heat-tolerant, but their energy levels are sky high and they require a lot of exercise and stimulation — so they may not be right for an apartment lifestyle.

Here are just a few dog breeds that display some of these characteristics and are known to be well-suited to hot climates AND have energy levels suited for apartment living!

9 dog breeds that are suited to heat & humidity

American Water Spaniels

Known for their love of swimming and ability to handle warmer climates with ease, American Water Spaniels are the ultimate outdoor enthusiasts. Their water-resistant, wavy coat not only keeps them protected in the water, but also helps them stay cool under the sun. 

These medium-energy dogs are perfect for those who enjoy a healthy mix of outdoor activities and relaxing downtime. While they love a good swim or romp in the yard, they’re just as happy to curl up and relax when playtime is over, making them a great balance of active and laid-back companionship.

Beagles

Beagles are small but mighty, and their short, sleek coats help them stay comfortable in the heat. They have the stamina to enjoy long walks and outdoor adventures, but they’re not too high-maintenance when it comes to exercise. 

Their medium energy level means they’re content with bursts of activity like walks, games and sniffs around the neighborhood, followed by some well-deserved relaxation indoors. If you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with you on a warm day but also knows how to relax and unwind, a Beagle might be just the companion!

Chihuahuas

Tiny but full of personality, Chihuahuas are perfectly built for warmer weather thanks to their Central American heritage and short, light coats. Their small size also helps them avoid overheating, and their large ears and skinny legs mean they can handle the heat better than many might expect. 

While they have plenty of spunk and personality, their energy levels are actually pretty manageable, making them ideal for those who want a dog that can enjoy some playtime but also enjoys lounging on a sofa. Whether they’re basking in the sun or just hanging out at home, Chihuahuas thrive in warm climates and don’t need a ton of exercise to stay happy.

Dachshund

With their smooth, short coats and distinctive long bodies, Dachshunds can handle warm weather much better than they can the cold, making them perfect for hot, sunny climates. They’re small enough to stay cool more easily, and their natural curiosity means they’ll happily explore with you on a warm day. 

Energy-wise, these little dogs are moderate; they enjoy a good walk or game of fetch but are also happy to spend hours snoozing on the couch. Their blend of playful and relaxed behavior makes them a great fit for warmer areas where they can enjoy the sun without overexerting themselves.

Dogue de Bordeaux 

Also known as a French Mastiff, the Dogue de Bordeaux’s imposing size and muscular build might look like they’re built for cooler weather, but their short, dense coat actually helps them manage the heat fairly well! Despite their size, they are quite mellow and don’t require as much exercise as some other large breeds. 

Their energy levels are low to medium, so they’re more likely to enjoy a leisurely stroll than a high-energy game of fetch, making them an ideal companion in hot climates as long as they have a cool, shady spot to rest afterward.

Golden Retrievers

Golden Retrievers are one of the most versatile dogs out there, and their thick double coat actually works to their advantage in warmer weather by protecting them from the sun’s rays! Though they need a little extra care in extreme heat, these happy-go-lucky pups are generally comfortable in warm climates. 

These medium-energy dogs love staying active, whether it’s swimming, hiking or playing fetch in the park, but they’re also known for being gentle and easygoing when it’s time to relax. Their adaptable nature makes them well-suited for households that enjoy both activity and downtime in the sun — the ideal apartment-friendly companion.

Greyhounds

Greyhounds, with their sleek, aerodynamic bodies and short coats, are practically built for warm weather. 

You’d think they’d be high-energy given their racing history, but Greyhounds are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to exercise! They’re happy to sprint for short bursts, but after that, they’re more than content to spend the rest of the day lounging around (same, honestly). These “couch potatoes” are perfectly suited to hot climates, as they don’t require a ton of activity and can cool off quickly with their lean build.

Labrador Retrievers

Much like their Golden Retriever cousins, Labradors are adaptable and handle a variety of climates well, including humid ones — their short, water-resistant coats make them especially suited to warm-weather activities like swimming, which they adore. 

With a typically-medium energy level, Labs are happiest when they can get out and play but will just as easily settle down after a good run or swim. Their easygoing nature, combined with their love for outdoor adventures, makes them ideal for those who enjoy being active in the sun without worrying about overexerting their dog in the heat.

Poodle

Finally, Poodles (particularly the Standard variety) are surprisingly well-suited to warmer temperatures, thanks to their curly, dense coats that provide both insulation and protection from the sun. While you can trim their coats to help them stay cooler in the summer, their natural coat does a pretty good job of keeping them comfortable in the sweltering heat. 

Poodles are medium-energy dogs who enjoy both mental and physical stimulation, making them a great choice for those who want a smart, active companion that can also relax when needed. Their adaptability and ability to thrive in different environments make them well-suited to warm climates and apartment dwellers, especially when the weather can get into the extreme high temperatures. 

If you live anywhere in or near our luxury Atlanta apartments and are looking to bring in a four-legged roommate, then consider these heat-resistant, apartment-friendly dog breeds. They’re more likely to be happy in the confines of an apartment, as well as in the heat of a Georgia summer. 

Have fun!

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Featured photo by Wade Austin Ellis on Unsplash