Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
One thing to take into consideration is that some dogs simply can’t handly the heat.
These breeds will quickly tire – and even become ill – if they are exposed to hight temperatures for an extended period of time, so won’t thank you for long walks in the sun and don’t enjoy living in warmer climes.
Here are the 12 breeds of dog that hate the heat.
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1. Pug
A thick coat isn't a problem for the tiny Pug, but its flat face is, while a tendency to pile on the pounds makes them particularly prone to heat stroke. | AFP via Getty Images

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel's thick coat, relatively short muzzle and long ears combine to make them struggle in the heat. This can be exacerbated if they are carrying extra weight - so limit those treats. | AFP via Getty Images

3. Alaskan Malamute
Considering the Alaskan Malamute has been bred over centuries to pull sleds over freezing Arctic tundra, it's perhaps not surprising that sunbathing isn't really their thing. Their thick, fleecy coat means they just can't cool down when the temperature rises. The same goes for their close cousins, the Siberian Husky. | AFP via Getty Images

4. Pekingese
The Pekingese’s flat face, thick double coat, and compact build create a combination highly associated with overheating. Even brief exposure to heat can become dangerous. | AFP via Getty Images
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