The desert air can greatly affect a dog's ability to search. A dog must have moisture available in its nasal membranes in order for the scent to be carried to the odor receptor sites. The process of sniffing in dry desert air dries out the membranes faster than the handler may expect. Dust is often heavy in the desert environment and also dries out the nasal membranes. The handler needs to remember that the dog will need frequent rest stops and water in order to work well.
Some searchers carry a mister in order to keep the dog's nose moistened.
The desert terrain can be punishing to the dog's feet. The hot sand absorbs 90 percent of the sun's radiated heat. This hot powder can get in between the dog's toes where its toughened pads offer no protection. Personal experience has shown that a dog with sore feet will not work. The slopes and peaks of desert mountains often are made of very sharp lava flakes.