Warning for Dog Owners in Florida: Huskies Are Struggling in This Heat

Interesting
By Benji Okoro

Huskies are stunning dogs — but in Florida’s brutal summer heat, owning one could quickly turn dangerous.

If you’re walking your Husky in Florida this summer, you could be putting them in serious danger.
While these beautiful dogs are built for snow and ice, Florida’s brutal heat and humidity can be deadly.

Why Huskies Can’t Handle Florida’s Climate

© Pawp

Siberian Huskies were bred to pull sleds through snow — not to walk on scorching pavement at noon. Their thick double coat, designed to trap heat in freezing temperatures, now does the opposite: it holds heat inside, making it hard for them to cool down.

  •  Even a short walk in the sun can lead to:
  •  Rapid overheating
  •  Lethargy and confusion
  •  Vomiting or diarrhea
  •  Seizures or even collapse

 

Florida’s high humidity makes it even worse. Dogs cool down by panting, but in sticky air, panting becomes less effective — which puts Huskies at high risk for heatstroke.

Signs Your Husky Is Overheating

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you notice any of the following, get your dog to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area immediately:

 

  • Excessive panting or drooling 
  • Weakness or stumbling
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Seizures or unconsciousness
  • Call your vet immediately if symptoms persist.

 5 Dog Breeds That Actually Thrive in the Florida Heat

If you live in Florida and are thinking about getting a dog, here are some breeds that are much better suited for our climate:

Chihuahua

© Dog Academy

Tiny, energetic, and heat-tolerant — their short coat and low exercise needs make them great for apartment living and hot weather.

 Basenji

2. Basenji
© Stephanie Richer Photography

An ancient African breed, known for being clean and quiet. Their lean bodies and short fur make them ideal for humid heat.

Doberman Pinscher

3. Doberman Pinscher
© Reddit

They may look tough, but Dobies are surprisingly adaptable to warm climates thanks to their short coats and sleek build.

American Hairless Terrier

4. American Hairless Terrier
© Adopt a Pet

With no fur to trap heat, they stay cool easily — just don’t forget sunscreen or shade, as their skin can burn.

Belgian Malinois

5. Belgian Malinois
© AKC Marketplace – American Kennel Club

Used by police and military even in hot regions, they’re smart, heat-resilient, and highly trainable — but they need daily stimulation.

Still Want a Husky in Florida? Here’s What You Must Do

© BestLife4Pets

ome people are set on having a Husky, and while it’s possible, it’s not easy.

 

If you already have one — or are considering adopting — you must be willing to make big lifestyle adjustments:

 

  • Walk them only early morning or after sunset
  • Keep them indoors with AC during the day
  • Groom them regularly (but don’t shave)
  • Watch constantly for signs of heat stress

Remember: Just because you love a breed, doesn’t mean it’s fair to force it into an environment it wasn’t built for.

 Florida’s not getting any cooler — but your dog can be.

Choose a breed that’s meant to thrive in this climate, not just survive. Your dog will thank you, and you’ll avoid heartache.