In today’s post, we will answer the question: Can Akita live in hot weather? and cover everything related to this topic. Furthermore, we even share with you top summer safety tips for Akitas.
We all know that Akitas are fond of living in cold weather. But if you are someone living in a hot climate area who wants to adopt an Akita, you might wonder if Akita lives in hot weather or not.
Let’s dive right in!
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Can Akita live in hot weather?
Yes, Akita can live in hot weather even though it is not ideal weather for them to live in.
Everyone knows Akita has a beautiful double coat, and it acts as insulation to keep them cool from the hot temperature.
The undercoat is dense and short. It protects your dog from the cold but also supplies insulation from heat. The topcoat is longer and guards Akita against UV rays, water, and insects.
Moreover, dogs are highly adaptable and adjust themselves to the weather of any place, so although Akitas are known to be the dogs of cold areas, they can adapt to hot temperatures as well.
But you must help them adapt even better and protect their health from hot weather carefully. You will know more in this article.
Akita temperature tolerance
Akitas commonly tolerate temperatures as high as 86°F (30°C), depending on how active they are likely to be.
However, for your Akita to join you on a hike or run, the ambient temperature should not be above 68°F (20°C).
Akita’s ability to cool down by sweating is negligible. They sweat mainly through the glands in their paw pads, and the only way for an Akita to cool down significantly is to gasp. That’s why Akitas can get heatstroke very quickly.
Therefore, when it’s too hot outside, you should keep a close eye on your dog.
Can Akitas stay outside in the heat?
Yes, Akitas can stay outside in the heat but never keep them exposed to heat for a long time.
The reasons why Akitas can’t stay outside in the hot weather for too long:
Can become stressed and anxious
Possibility of dehydration
Risk of heatstroke
Extreme effects can lead to death
Can Akitas live in Florida?
Yes, Akitas can live in Florida comfortably. So if you take care to keep your Akita cool during hot Florida summer days, you can easily make them live there.
Can Akitas live in Hawaii?
Yes, Akitas can live in Hawaii and tolerate the tropical weather with proper care.
Can Akitas live in Arizona?
Akitas can live in Arizona and adapt to the heat of this place. Their double coat plays a vital role in keeping them cool.
How to keep an Akita cool in summer?
I don’t think any of us want to see our Akitas suffer from the heat of summer. So, when the warmth of summer comes, we need to be sure of ways to keep them cool. Here’re the top tips on how to keep an Akita cool in summer:
1 – Always have water available
You should ensure your dog has access to clean water all year round, especially in the summer.
A standard signal that the dog is not doing well with the heat is panting.
Panting, as opposed to normal breathing, allows them to take in air through their mouths while also cooling the insides of their bodies.
However, this can cause them to become dehydrated as their tongue dries up too soon when doing so.
If your dog starts panting excessively, give them more water right away to cool themselves and better adapt to hot ambient temperatures.
When you’re out with your dog, make sure you always bring enough water for them. However, veterinarians warn against giving too much water at once.
2 – Keep dogs inside during hot weather
Summer is the enemy of dogs with a thick coat like Akitas, so being outside is uncomfortable and extremely hot for them.
Keep them inside and avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, from 11 am to 4 pm to be exact, especially when perched at its peak.
3 – Brush their hair regularly
With a thick coat like the Akitas, removing any tangles and dead hair can help them cool. Also, bathe them once a month.
4 – Should you shave your dog in the summer?
No, you should not shave your dog in the summer except for medical reasons. Shaving will not help them stay cool. It just makes humans feel cooler by looking at their coats.
As I mentioned above, Akita’s double coat is great insulation for them in both summer and winter. Shaving your dog’s coat just takes away their natural protection and exposes their sensitive skin.
5 – Plan your walks
If it’s sunny and humid, you’d better avoid the midday heat. You should go for a walk early in the morning or later in the evening when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for your dog.
One more thing to check before you go is the pavement. Hot surfaces can hurt a dog’s paw pads.
Put your hand on the pavement to check the temperature. You can also pour water on it. If it immediately steams up, the pavement temperature is too hot for your dog.
In addition, you should walk your dog on the trails because they are not hard surfaces and are less likely to cause injury.
6 – Keep them ventilated
If you could turn on a fan or air conditioner, that would mean a lot to dogs. They can tolerate the heat and get some winter vibes inside while it’s hot outside.
7 – Never leave your dog alone in cars
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Cars parked in direct sunlight can reach internal temperatures up to 131°F to 172°F when it’s 80°F to 100°F outside.”
Therefore, never leave your dog alone in a hot car, even parked in the shade with the windows open.
Before putting them in the car, you should turn on the air conditioner. However, keep an eye on them to see if they start panting and give them cool water.
Conclusion
Akita can live in hot weather even though it is not ideal weather for them to live in. Their double coat acts as insulation to keep them cool from the hot temperature. They can live healthy and happy lives in hot weather if you take care of them properly. They’re intelligent, loyal, and a great companion.
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