Can Your Dog Actually Get Sunburned? Details To Know

If you've ever spent too much time out in the sun without protection, chances are you came out of that situation with a nasty sunburn. Just like us humans, dogs are not invincible to the power of the sun. If your dog is spending time outside on a hot day without protection, they too will come away sunburnt.

Sunburn in dogs is more likely in the summertime when the sun is hot and strong; however, they can burn whenever they're outside and the UV is high. Some signs of sunburn on dogs include red or pink skin, hair loss, rash, and scaliness. It's possible for dogs to get burnt on any area of their body, but certain spots are more prone to sun damage. Anywhere your dog's fur is thin or there isn't any fur at all will be the areas most at risk, such as the nose, belly, and ear flaps. 

Not only do sunburns have uncomfortable short-term effects for your pup, but just like humans, too much sun damage over time can put your pup at risk for skin cancer. It's extremely important to keep your dog protected when they're spending time outside to prevent sunburns while still allowing them to have some fun in the sun.

One of the best ways to protect your dog from sunburn is by using dog-formulated sunscreen. Never use human sunscreen on dogs, as it contains chemicals that could be toxic if your pup happens to lick it off. Apply dog sunscreen on all parts of your pup's body where they are likely to get burnt and where their fur is thinner. Focus on the nose, groin area, inner thighs, tips of the ears, and anywhere else your dog is lightly-colored or short of hair. Make sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day if your pup is spending a lot of time outdoors, and any time after they get wet.

Along with sunscreen, you can also prevent your pup from getting burnt by using sun-protective clothing and accessories. Consider buying a dog sunsuit to protect your dog's body from the harsh rays of the sun. Give them a pair of doggy goggles to act as sunglasses and protect their eyes. Similar to you putting on a big, floppy hat before heading to the beach, there are also dog sun hats out there to protect your precious pooch from getting burnt.

While sunburns can affect every dog and every pup should use sun protection, there are certain dogs who are more prone to sunburns than others. If your dog loves laying in the sun, they could be more at risk for sunburn, especially if they enjoy sunbathing on a concrete driveway. Certain dog breeds are also more prone to sunburns. Since dogs are more likely to get burnt on parts of their body that don't have fur, this means hairless pups, such as the Chinese Crested, are more at risk of getting sunburnt than a dog who has a thick coat.

Dogs with white on their ears and dogs with light noses and eyelids are also more prone to getting sunburnt, with breeds such as bulldogs and Dalmatians being some who are more at risk. Dogs with white fur are also going to be more prone to getting burnt. Dogs with thin, short fur, such as pit bulls and greyhounds, will typically be in more trouble out in the sun than dogs with thicker fur, such as Bernese Mountain dogs and Newfoundlands. However, it's still possible for a thick-coated dog to get sunburnt in thinner areas where fur has shedded, so sun protection is key for all breeds.