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Summer days for dogs are meant to be chasing a ball in the yard, going for a walk or simply lounging in a patch of sunlight, but while their coats offer some natural protection, canines are not completely shielded from the sun’s harmful rays.
Many owners may not realize their pets are vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage, especially if they assume fur provides complete protection. But prolonged sun exposure can cause painful skin damage and increase the risk of certain long-term health problems.
“Dogs can absolutely get sunburned,” Dr. Lindsey Kaplan, pet company Woof’s in-house veterinarian, told Newsweek. “Just like people, ultraviolet radiation can damage the skin, leading to redness, inflammation, and discomfort.”
But dogs cannot tell their owners when their skin starts to hurt, making it important to recognize the early warning signs.
What Does Sunburn Look Like on a Dog?
The signs of sunburn in dogs can look similar to those seen in humans, but the earliest signs can be subtle, especially in dogs with thicker coats where redness and irritation can be harder to spot.
Mild cases of sunburn may cause:
- Pink or red skin
- Warmth in the affected area
- Increased sensitivity when touched
- Excessive licking or scratching
“If the skin begins to blister, peel, ooze, swell significantly or if your dog appears painful, lethargic or otherwise unwell, it’s time to contact your veterinarian,” she said.
These symptoms may indicate a more serious burn or the development of a secondary skin infection that requires medical attention.
Which Dogs Are Most at Risk of Sunburn?
While all canines can experience sun damage, some have less protection than others.
Dogs most vulnerable to sunburn include those with:
- Thin, short or sparse coats
- White or light-colored fur
- Pink or lightly pigmented skin
- Hairless breeds
- Recently shaved areas
- Medical conditions that cause hair loss
Areas with little fur coverage are especially at risk, including a dog’s nose, ear tips, eyelids, belly and groin.
Even dogs with darker coats are not completely immune. Owners may assume their pets are protected because of their fur color, but repeated UV exposure can still cause damage over time.
Can Sun Exposure Increase a Dog’s Risk of Skin Cancer?
Like humans, dogs can experience the long-term effects of repeated UV exposure.
“Repeated sunburns may also contribute to chronic skin inflammation and premature skin aging,” Kaplan said.
Chronic UV exposure can also increase the risk of certain forms of skin cancer, making prevention an important part of summer pet care.
How Can Owners Protect Their Dogs From the Sun?
The easiest way to protect a dog from sunburn is to limit exposure when UV rays are strongest, generally from late morning through the afternoon, Kaplan said.
During those times, owners should consider:
- Keeping walks and outdoor play sessions shorter
- Providing access to shade
- Making sure fresh water is always available
- Using lightweight UV-protective clothing for especially sensitive dogs
- Applying pet-specific sunscreen when appropriate
Kaplan recommends indoor enrichment activities to help keep dogs entertained and mentally stimulated during those peak hours.
Dog-specific sunscreens can provide additional protection, but owners should avoid grabbing a bottle of human sunscreen without checking with a veterinarian first. Some ingredients commonly found in human sunscreens, including zinc oxide, salicylates and para-aminobenzoic acid, can be harmful if dogs lick and ingest them.
When Should You Call a Vet About a Sunburned Dog?
If a dog develops mild redness after spending time outdoors, owners should keep the area away from additional sun exposure and monitor the skin as it heals.
However, veterinary care is recommended if the skin begins blistering, peeling, swelling significantly or showing signs of infection. Dogs who appear unusually painful, tired or unwell should also be evaluated.
Treatment depends on the severity of the burn but may include pain relief, anti-inflammatory medications, topical treatments or wound care.
For pet owners, the best defense is prevention. A little planning before heading outdoors can help dogs safely enjoy summer without the painful consequences of too much sun.
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