Floridians love their German Shepherds, which is the number one dog breed in the state, followed by Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Other popular breeds in Florida include Labrador Retrievers, Yorkshire Terriers, French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Maltese, Rottweilers, and Beagles.
If you’re thinking of bringing a puppy into your Florida home and you’re going to be a first-time pet parent, you’re probably wondering – Is Florida too hot for dogs? Or… Do dogs do well in Florida?
The truth is that dogs can do just fine in Florida or other tropical and subtropical climates, even without air conditioning, provided you follow some tips to help your pooch handle the heat and humidity.
Choosing the right breed is important. Long-haired breeds are better suited to cooler places or places that have long, cold winters. Brachycephalic breeds (short-headed breeds) like the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Boxer, and Pug may not be able to breathe as well as some other breeds in hot and humid weather, although some of them continue to be popular dogs in Florida. Lastly, it’s important to keep your dog at a healthy weight because obesity can cause your pooch to heat up even in mildly warm weather.
Some simple tips for dog care in Florida include providing a cool place for your dog to relax, something like a shallow pool in a shady spot in your yard. Plenty of fresh, clean drinking water is also vital. It’s important to restrict exercise to early mornings and late evenings, or if heading out during the day, perhaps taking your dog for a cooling swim in a river, lake, or ocean, making sure they are always supervised.
Also, remember that concrete and blacktops can burn your dog’s feet, so check the sidewalk before heading out or buy your dog protective booties for the paw pads. Never leave your dog in a car where they can become quickly overheated. Also, keep up with grooming and brush out the undercoat to keep it thin.
Florida is a great place for dogs provided you take some basic precautions. If you’re looking for a responsible breeder in Florida who can help you find the perfect furry friend, Puppy Hero has a database of reputable breeders in the state.
