There are certain dog breeds that suffer in the heat much more than others. The answer to why your pet pants excessively after a short walk in the sun is not only in the degrees on the thermometer, but deeply written in their DNA.
Today we explain how genetics influence your pet's temperature and why knowing their heritage is vital to prevent a dreaded heatstroke in dogs.
The role of genetics in canine thermoregulation
Unlike humans, dogs do not sweat through their skin. Their thermoregulation system (the ability to maintain a stable body temperature) works primarily through panting and, to a lesser extent, through the sweat glands in their paw pads.
When a dog pants, cool air passes over the moist tissues of their nose and mouth, evaporating the moisture and cooling the blood circulating through those areas. The effectiveness of this system depends directly on the dog's anatomy: the length of their snout, the type of coat, and their muscle mass. And all of this, of course, is dictated by their canine genetics.
Dog breeds with a higher genetic predisposition to suffer in the heat
Over the centuries, selective breeding has modified (or "shaped") dogs' DNA to adapt them to different jobs and environments. However, these anatomical modifications make certain breeds extremely vulnerable in summer.
Brachycephalic syndrome: Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boxers
Brachycephalic dogs (those with a broad skull and a short snout) top the list of those who handle the heat the worst. Breeds like the French Bulldog, the Pug, or the Boxer have compressed airways.
This anatomy prevents them from panting efficiently. By not being able to cool the air properly, heat quickly builds up in their body, drastically increasing the risk of collapse.
The genetics of the double coat: Huskies and Malamutes
The DNA of Nordic breeds such as the Siberian Husky or the Alaskan Malamute is designed for survival in the Arctic ice. They have a double coat: a dense inner layer that traps body heat and an outer layer that repels snow.
Although their coat acts as a thermal insulator that also protects them from the sun, in hot and humid climates this genetic design turns into an oven if they engage in intense exercise, making it difficult for them to cool down.
Large breeds with high muscle mass
Giant dog breeds, such as the Mastiff, the Saint Bernard, or the Newfoundland, have a large amount of muscle mass and body fat. The larger the size, the more heat they accumulate simply by moving and functioning. If we add a dense coat to this, we have dogs that need very cool environments to be comfortable.
Do you have a mixed-breed dog? Why it is vital to know their genetics
If you have a purebred dog, you know what to expect and what precautions to take. But the real risk appears when we talk about mixed-breed dogs.
If your dog is adopted, their DNA is an absolute mystery. They may look like a shepherd dog or a Labrador, but hide 40% Bulldog or Boxer in their genes. This means they could have inherited narrower airways or a genetic predisposition to suffer cardiorespiratory problems in the heat, without you knowing it just by looking at them.
Ignorance about our dog's genetic mix prevents us from protecting them properly during the hottest months.
4 Basic tips to protect heat-sensitive dogs
- Walks: Avoid the middle of the day (between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM). Walk early in the morning or at night, when the asphalt won't burn their paw pads.
- Constant hydration: Always carry a portable water bowl with fresh water during walks and ensure their bowl at home is never empty.
- Cooling zones: Provide a shady and cool place at home. Cooling mats are an excellent investment for brachycephalic or heavily coated breeds.
- Brushing yes, shaving no: If your dog has a double coat, brush them daily to remove dead hair (the undercoat). Never shave them, as their coat acts as a shield against sunburn and helps them regulate their temperature.
The best tool for taking care of your dog is information. With a dog DNA test, you can discover the secrets hidden in your pet's genetics.
At Koko Genetics, we analyze your best friend's DNA using a simple, completely painless saliva sample. Our test not only breaks down exactly which breeds make up your mixed-breed dog, but it also analyzes physical traits and indicators of health and genetic diseases that are vital for your dog.
