Nevada summers can be both gorgeous and grueling. The scorching sun, parched landscape, and searing temperatures make it difficult for anyone to stay cool and calm, and our furry friends are no exception. Dogs can be the perfect summertime companion, but if you’re in the market for a new furry friend, it’s important to take a look at the best dog breeds for handling Nevada summer heat.

But why do our beloved pups have such a rough time in the summer sun in the first place?

First and foremost, dogs have a higher body temperature than humans. While our body temperature hovers around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, a dog’s body temperature can range from 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that dogs are already starting out hotter than us, and in the summer heat, their bodies have to work overtime to regulate their temperature. Their only way to cool down is by panting, which can be inefficient in extreme heat and humidity. Fortunately, there are some ways to help them cool down!

Obviously, the fur doesn’t help. While fur provides insulation to keep dogs warm in cold weather, it can also trap heat and prevent their bodies from releasing it in hot weather. Dogs with thick, long coats are particularly susceptible to overheating and should be monitored closely in high temperatures. It’s important to brush your dog regularly to remove any matted or tangled fur, which can also trap heat against their skin. These breeds are definitely not among the best dog breeds for handling Nevada summer heat, and owners or potential owners should proceed with caution before exposing a dog with thick fur to our sweltering Nevada summer temps.

Something you may not know – dogs actually sweat differently than humans. While we have sweat glands all over our bodies, dogs only have them on their paw pads and noses. This means that panting is their primary method of cooling off. Additionally, sweat doesn’t evaporate as efficiently on a dog’s fur as it does on our skin, so they have a harder time regulating their body temperature through sweating alone.

Plus, if a pup is overweight, elderly, or has health conditions like heart disease or respiratory issues, they’re definitely at a higher risk of overheating in the summer. These dogs may not be able to regulate their body temperature as effectively as healthier dogs, and may need extra care and attention in hot weather. Make sure to provide plenty of water and shade, and avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat hours.

That said, these are some of the best dog breeds for handling Nevada summer heat aka those ridiculously hot temperatures. From pint-sized pups to larger breeds, these dogs have the stamina, traits, and temperament to breeze through the hottest season of the year.