Can Dogs Get Sunburns? A Vet‘s Guide to Protecting Your Pup
As a lifelong dog lover and veterinarian, I‘m always looking for ways to keep my furry patients healthy and happy. With summer fast approaching, one important topic that often comes up with pet parents is sunburn. Can dogs get sunburns? How can you spot and treat a burn on your pup? And most importantly, what steps can you take to prevent painful burns in the first place?
In this ultimate guide, I‘ll answer all of those questions and more. We‘ll dive into the science behind dog sunburns, highlight which breeds are most at risk, and share my top tips and product picks for shielding your dog from the sun‘s harsh rays. By the end, you‘ll have everything you need to safely enjoy the summer with your best four-legged friend. Let‘s get started!
Do Dogs Really Get Sunburns?
The simple answer is yes – dogs can absolutely get sunburned, just like humans. While their fur does provide some innate protection, it‘s not a foolproof barrier against the sun‘s UV rays. Areas with thin, light-colored, or no fur are especially vulnerable, including the:
- Nose
- Ears
- Belly
- Groin
- Paw pads
Image source: American Kennel Club
Dogs with short, thin, or light-colored coats are also more prone to sunburns overall compared to dogs with thick, dark fur. "We see the most sunburns on dogs with white or tan fur, especially on the ears, nose, and belly," says Dr. Joya Griffin, a veterinary dermatologist at Animal Dermatology Clinic in Seattle.
Just like with humans, repeated sun exposure and sunburns can lead to skin cancers in dogs down the line. "Chronic sun damage absolutely increases the risk of skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma, hemangioma, and hemangiosarcoma in dogs," warns Dr. Griffin.
According to a 2020 study from the Journal of Small Animal Practice, an estimated 40% of dogs will develop some form of cancer in their lifetime, with skin tumors being the most common type diagnosed. While not all skin cancers in dogs are caused by sun exposure, it is a major risk factor.
So while your pup may love nothing more than basking for hours in the sunshine, it‘s up to us as pet parents to enforce sun protection and moderation. Trust me, a bad sunburn is not only uncomfortable for your dog, it can have serious health consequences.
Which Dog Breeds Face the Highest Sunburn Risk?
Certain dogs are far more likely to get sunburned than others. Hairless breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog), Peruvian Inca Orchid, Chinese Crested, and American Hairless Terrier are especially prone since they have no fur to shield them from UV rays.
A hairless Chinese Crested dog wearing sun protective doggie sunglasses. Image source: Adobe Stock
Dogs with naturally short, thin, or light-colored coats also face an increased risk of sunburn compared to their thick-coated counterparts. At-risk breeds include:
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Pit Bulls and Pit mixes
- Dalmatians
- German Shorthaired Pointers
- Greyhounds
- Whippets
- Boxers
- Bull Terriers
- French Bulldogs
- Weimaraners
- Vizslas
- Beagles
- Basset Hounds
The sparser or lighter the fur, the less natural protection that dog has against the sun. However, even thick-coated and dark-furred dogs can get burned on exposed areas like the nose or belly.
It‘s also important for owners to keep in mind that dogs with certain health conditions may be more prone to sunburns. "Dogs with alopecia (hair loss) from allergies, endocrine disorders, or other medical issues are also in the high-risk category, regardless of breed," says Dr. Carlo Siracusa, Professor of Clinical Behavior Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Bottom line – when in doubt, provide sun protection for your pup, no matter their breed or coat type. Better safe than sorry!
5 Vet-Approved Tips to Prevent Doggie Sunburns
Now that you know dogs can and do get sunburned, let‘s talk prevention strategies. Shielding your dog from excess sun exposure is the best way to avoid painful burns and reduce skin cancer risks. Here are my top tips:
1. Limit Time Outdoors During Peak Sunlight Hours
Avoid having your dog outside for long periods between 10am and 4pm when the sun‘s rays are at their strongest. If your pup needs a midday bathroom break, make it quick!
2. Provide Accessible Shade
If you and your dog are outdoors during the day, ensure they have a shaded area to retreat to. A large patio umbrella, shade sail, or pop-up canopy are all good portable options. Just remember, doghouses and other enclosed structures don‘t provide adequate shade and can make overheating worse.
3. Apply Dog-Safe Sunscreen
Slather on sunscreen made for dogs on vulnerable spots like the ears, nose, belly, and any areas with particularly thin fur. Be sure to use a formula specifically made for dogs to avoid ingredients that could be toxic if ingested, like zinc oxide. My top picks are:
- Epi-Pet Sun Protector Sunscreen Spray – SPF 30
- Emmy‘s Best Pet Products Dog Sun Skin Protector Spray – SPF 30
- Warren London Dog Sunscreen – SPF 15
- Beach & Dog Co. Canine Sunstick – SPF 30
Start applying sunscreen about 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming. And don‘t forget to hit often-missed areas like the tips of the ears, the top of the nose, and the belly!
4. Add a Layer of UV-Protective Dog Clothing
Another great way to physically block UV rays is with sun-protective clothing made just for dogs. Rash guard-style shirts, bodysuits, hats, and even doggles (dog goggles) with UV-blocking lenses can all help shield your pup.
Some of my favorite brands include:
- PlayaPup UV Protective Dog Shirts
- Shed Defender Bodysuit
- Doggles ORIGINALZ
- Walkin‘ Hats for Dogs
If your dog isn‘t used to wearing clothes, introduce the garments gradually and make it a positive experience with plenty of treats and praise. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics to prevent overheating and remove the clothing promptly if your pup seems uncomfortable.
5. Beware of Hot Surfaces
While sunburns tend to get the most attention, hot pavement can be equally damaging to your dog‘s sensitive paw pads. Before heading out for a walk, hold the back of your hand against the ground for at least 5 seconds. If it‘s too hot for your hand, it‘s definitely too hot for your dog‘s feet.
Stick to walks on grass or dirt paths on scorching days or invest in a set of protective dog booties. My favorite summer pair is the Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots. They‘re durable with a Vibram outsole that protects paw pads from rough, hot surfaces.
A dog ready for a sunny day in his UV-blocking sun shirt, hat, and goggles. Image source: Ray Hennessy via Unsplash
Spotting and Treating a Sunburn on Your Dog
Despite an owner‘s best prevention efforts, sunburns can still happen. It‘s crucial to know the signs so you can start treatment right away. Sunburned skin on a dog will look red, inflamed, or discolored and may be warm or tender to the touch. Your dog may also yelp, whine, or pull away if you touch the affected area.
If you suspect your dog has a sunburn:
- Move them indoors or into the shade immediately.
- Apply cool (not ice cold) compresses to the burn to relieve pain.
- Gently dab on a dog-safe aloe vera gel to soothe and moisturize the skin.
- Do not apply any human sunburn creams, sprays, or ointments unless okayed by your vet.
- Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns or see signs of blistering or open sores.
For mild sunburns, Dr. Siracusa advises, "A compress of green tea can also help, thanks to the tannic acid and theobromine which have anti-inflammatory effects. Steep a green tea bag in cool water and apply to the burned area for 5 to 10 minutes a few times a day."
More severe sunburns with substantial blistering, cracked skin, or oozing may require veterinary treatment, including pain meds, antibiotics, or medicated creams to prevent infection. When in doubt, always consult your vet for sunburn care guidance.
Other Summer Health Hazards for Dogs
Beyond sunburn and scorched paw pads, Dr. Griffin emphasizes that hot weather presents additional risks owners need to be aware of, especially heat stroke. "Dogs can‘t sweat like humans, so they‘re very prone to overheating in high temperatures," she notes.
Never leave a dog in a hot car, not even for a minute. On an 85°F day, the interior of a car can hit 120°F+ within 30 minutes, even with the windows rolled down. Hundreds of dogs tragically lose their lives to hot cars each year.
Image source: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
Limit your dog‘s time outdoors and exercise on scorching days, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours for walks and play sessions. Always ensure your pup has easy access to fresh water and shady spots to chill out.
"Watch out for early signs of heat stroke like heavy panting, bright red gums, confusion, vomiting, and collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to an air conditioned space immediately, drape cool wet towels over their body, and call your vet for next steps," says Dr. Griffin. Heat stroke can be deadly in dogs, so prompt action is key.
A dog staying hydrated at a water fountain at the park. Image source: Karsten Winegeart via Unsplash
Key Takeaways: Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Sun
As a responsible dog owner, protecting your pup from sun damage should be a top priority this summer and all year round. By following the expert tips outlined here, you can dramatically reduce your dog‘s risk of sunburns and heat-related illnesses.
Some final advice from Dr. Griffin, "Remember, if you‘re feeling hot and tired from the sun, your dog probably is too. Be proactive about sun and heat protection rather than waiting until you spot a problem. If you have any concerns about your dog‘s sun sensitivity or see signs of a burn or heat sickness, contact your vet right away. We‘re here to help!"
Now get out there and safely soak up that summer sun with your best canine companion. Just don‘t forget the dog sunscreen!
