Easiest dog breeds to live with in Morocco: the ranking

In Morocco, an "easy" breed must above all cope with heat, adapt to your home and stay healthy without costly care. A large British study on heatstroke helps compare breeds. Here is our ranking, from easiest to most demanding.

What science says about heat

A study published in 2020 in Scientific Reports (Hall et al.) analysed 395 cases of canine heatstroke, 14% of them fatal. Compared with the labrador, the chow chow had about 14 times the risk, flat-faced dogs (bulldogs, pugs) about twice the risk, and greyhounds about 4 times the risk, especially during exercise. The lhasa apso had a much lower risk (0.24 times the labrador's).

The easiest to live with

1. The adopted beldi (mixed-breed) dog

Often medium-sized, short-coated and used to the local climate, the shelter mixed-breed is generally robust. Its character is known to the volunteers who look after it: a real advantage when choosing.

2. The poodle (standard or miniature)

Intelligent, sheds little, comfortable in a flat if it goes out regularly. It does need regular clipping.

3. The lhasa apso and small dogs with normal muzzles

Small dogs with the lowest heatstroke risk in the study: a good choice in town, provided their coat is maintained.

4. The labrador

The ideal family dog and the study's reference breed. In summer, walk it early in the morning or in the evening, and watch its weight: obesity also increases heatstroke risk.

Easy… with conditions

5. The Sloughi

The Moroccan sighthound is calm and clean at home, but it must run. As with all sighthounds, avoid exertion during the hot hours.

6. The Aidi

Hardy and suited to Morocco's mountains, it is above all a guard dog: it needs space, an experienced owner and good socialisation. Difficult in a flat.

The most demanding in Morocco

7. Flat-faced dogs (French or English bulldog, pug)

Very popular, they breathe poorly in strong heat. Walks in the cool, a ventilated home and water at will are essential.

8. The chow chow and dogs with very thick coats

The highest heatstroke risk in the study. Best for households able to keep them cool all year round.

Frequently asked questions

Should a long-haired dog be clipped in summer?

Not always: the undercoat also protects from the sun. Ask a groomer or vet depending on the breed.

What are the signs of heatstroke?

Heavy panting, very red tongue, weakness, vomiting, collapse. It is an emergency: move the dog somewhere cool, wet it with cool (not ice-cold) water and call a vet.

Read more: adopt or buy: what budget and the quiz: which breed matches you.

General information that does not replace a vet's advice. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency.

Sources: Hall E.J. et al., "Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness (heatstroke) in UK dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016", Scientific Reports, 2020, as summarised by Futura Sciences; Le360 (Aidi); FCI (Aidi and Sloughi standards).