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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteYes, dogs can get sunburn, especially where fur is sparse or skin is lightly pigmented. Shade and avoiding prolonged exposure during peak sun hours are the first steps; dog-formulated sunscreen and protective clothing can provide additional protection. If your dog has a visible burn, ask a veterinarian for advice.
Thin-coated, white or light-colored, hairless, and light-skinned dogs are at greater risk, but any dog can have vulnerable areas such as the nose, ear tips, belly, groin, and skin around the eyes and mouth. Sunlight reflected from water or pale surfaces can increase exposure.
Key takeaways
- Dogs can get sunburn, especially where fur is thin or missing and skin is lightly pigmented.
- Check the nose, ears, belly, groin, inner thighs, and skin around the eyes and mouth.
- Provide shade and avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours; water and pale surfaces can reflect sunlight.
- Choose sunscreen formulated for dogs, follow its label, prevent licking, and ask a veterinarian for guidance. Avoid products containing zinc oxide or PABA.
- Move a sunburned dog out of the sun and arrange veterinary assessment. Severe burns, blisters, open wounds, pain, or signs of illness need prompt attention.
Why can dogs get sunburns?
Fur offers some protection, but it does not make a dog immune to sunburn. Thin or missing fur and lightly pigmented skin raise risk. Hairless dogs, white or light-colored dogs, and dogs with exposed or compromised skin—including wounds or surgery sites—may be especially vulnerable. Allergies and some immune-mediated skin diseases can also increase risk. Any dog can have exposed or thinned areas.
Commonly vulnerable sites include the bridge of the nose, ear flaps or tips, skin around the eyes and mouth, belly, groin, and inner thighs. Dogs lying belly-up on concrete or other pale surfaces may receive reflected sunlight; water can reflect sunlight, too. The American Kennel Club guidance on sun protection for dogs also notes the risk to exposed skin.
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Possible signs include red or pink skin, warmth, itching, flaking, dryness, cracking, soreness or pain, and hair loss. More serious signs can include blisters, ulcers, wounds, or a rash. These signs can resemble other skin problems, so a veterinarian should assess uncertain or significant symptoms.
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- Dogs and cats can get sun burn - Pets with light fur color are most vulnerable. Simply massage sunscreen onto sensitive areas 20 minutes before sun exposure
- Formulated safe for pets - NO zinc oxide, safe ingredients that protect your pet, including octinoxate, olive oils, moisturizing vitamin E and conditioning lecithin
- 🇺🇸 Made in USA - At our state of the art facility in the heart of Pennsylvania
- Easy application - Non aerosol spray makes it super easy to apply with your hand or directly on your pet's coat. Remember, sunscreen should not be eaten by your pet, only applied to their skin
- Dog beach essentials - If you expect to spend a long time in the sun, make sure give your puppy sunscreen that will protect their nose, ears, and skin.
Sun-related skin damage can have longer-term consequences. Merck Veterinary Manual’s canine case material on solar-induced squamous cell carcinomas illustrates lesions in nonpigmented skin. Sun protection can reduce avoidable exposure but cannot guarantee prevention of skin cancer. Have a persistent sore, crust, lump, pigment change, or nonhealing lesion examined by a veterinarian.
How can you protect a dog from the sun?
Prevent exposure first, then consider clothing or sunscreen for skin that remains exposed. The best option depends on the dog, its tolerance for clothing or topical products, the exposure conditions, and product directions.
1. Reduce direct sun exposure
Provide dependable shade and a way for your dog to get out of direct sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours; PetMD describes peak UV exposure as typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your dog indoors for breaks when practical. Fresh water supports hot-weather safety, but it does not block ultraviolet radiation or replace shade.
Rank #2
- Protects skin and coat from Sun and UV rays, great for pets with thin, white or light-colored hair
- Non-greasy formula with UV filter and Jojoba and Shea butter conditioners for dogs, cats and horses
- Pet-safe ingredients, alcohol-free, no Zinc Oxide, great on noses, ears, and hairless breeds
- Easy to use, non-aerosol sprayer, apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours
- Ethical, family-owned small business making safe products for you, your pets and the planet!
Jerry Klein, DVM, Chief Veterinary Officer of the American Kennel Club, says, “The best way to protect your dog from the sun is to keep him indoors or in the shade, except for quick elimination periods, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.” The American Kennel Club’s dog-sunscreen guidance discusses shade and reduced exposure.
2. Use physical coverage
A dog sun shirt, sun suit, rash guard, or hat can physically cover exposed skin and reduce reliance on topical products. Choose clothing the dog tolerates and that fits comfortably. Do not assume a garment has a particular UV protection factor unless its label supports that claim. Clothing is additional protection, not a substitute for shade or avoiding excessive exposure.
3. Consider dog-formulated sunscreen
For exposed or lightly pigmented areas that clothing cannot cover, consider sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs. Read the complete ingredient list and directions, and ask a veterinarian for guidance—especially if your dog has skin disease, wounds, surgery sites, allergies, or a reaction to topical products.
Rank #3
- SUN PROTECTION AND WATER RESISTANT: Formulated with all natural ingredients, our balm protects dog's noses from harmful sun rays that cause cracking and sunburn on our furry friends noses. It is water resisitant which means it's great for using at the beach, the lake or even just sunbathing in the back yard at home!
- SNOUT SOOTHER: With all natural ingredients such as Carnuba Wax, Coconut Oil and more, our balm is great for dry cracked noses and paws. Bring your dog some relief by using our moisturizing and healing balm. For best results, apply before bedtime for maximum absorption.
- SAFE FOR YOUR PET: Human sunscreen is very toxic to our furry friends. Our Balm is created with all natural - safe ingredients for your dog. Keep your dog safe by applying our sunscreen balm to their nose, ears and belly.
- WHAT TYPE OF BREED IS THIS GOOD FOR? All breeds, however we highly recommend our moisurizing sun protection balm for any light colored fur, dogs with thin coats or no coats. According to the AKC - Some dogs are more at risk for sunburn than others such as, hairless dog breed. Also, dogs with white or thin coats and dogs with light-pigmented noses and eyelids are also more at risk for sunburn.
- SATISFACTION GUARANTEED: We pride ourselves for being 100% manufactured in the USA and for using the highest quality ingredients. Our excellent customer service team is always available for help.
Prevent your dog from licking the product during application and follow its label. AKC cautions against zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) in dog sunscreen because ingestion can be toxic. The ASPCA’s sunscreen safety guidance for pets provides additional ingredient-safety context. Do not assume a human sunscreen is suitable for a dog.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute| Option | Coverage | Practical fit and use | Safety and limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shade or indoor breaks | Reduces direct exposure for the dog in the shaded or indoor area | Useful when dependable shade or indoor access is available | Monitor the dog and avoid prolonged exposure; water and pale surfaces may reflect sunlight |
| Dog sun shirt, suit, or rash guard | Physically covers the skin beneath the garment | Useful if the dog tolerates clothing and it fits comfortably | Do not assume a UV rating unless supported by the product label; does not replace shade |
| Dog-formulated sunscreen | Topical coverage for selected exposed areas | Useful where clothing does not cover; follow the product’s directions for conditions such as swimming | Check ingredients, prevent licking, and ask a veterinarian; avoid zinc oxide and PABA |
| Shade cloth, tent, or canopy | Creates a shaded outdoor space | Useful when a portable covered space is needed | Does not protect a dog that leaves the shade or is exposed around its edges |
What sunscreen is safe for dogs?
Choose a product formulated for dogs, read its ingredients and directions, and ask a veterinarian if you are unsure. Prevent licking during application. Avoid sunscreen containing zinc oxide or PABA, which AKC cautions can be toxic if ingested. If your dog has skin disease, wounds, surgery sites, or a topical-product reaction, get veterinary advice before applying sunscreen.
Products differ, so follow the specific label for application and reapplication, including after swimming. Do not rely on a generic timing rule or a claimed UV rating unless it is supported by the product’s directions and labeling.
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- Sun-Safe Snouts, All Day Long: Don’t let the sunshine ruin the fun! This balm is packed with SPF30 protection to shield sensitive noses from harmful UV rays. Ideal for beach days, hikes, or just lounging in the yard;
- Ultra-Gentle, Super Effective: Made with Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Vitamin E, this balm soothes dry, sun-exposed skin while creating a gentle moisture barrier. Perfect for dogs with pink or light-colored noses;
- Smart UV Patch = Easy Reapply: Featuring a built-in color-changing UV sticker, the balm lets you know when it’s time to reapply. No guesswork—just worry-free outdoor time;
- Clear, Clean, and Mess-Free: Our transparent, fragrance-free formula glides on smoothly with a twist-up stick—no white cast, no greasy hands. Use it anytime, anywhere;
- Vet-Trusted, Breed-Approved: Reviewed by veterinary skincare experts and made for daily use. Whether your dog is a tiny explorer or a big sun lover, this balm keeps their nose protected and happy;
Can you put human sunscreen on a dog?
Do not assume human sunscreen is suitable for a dog. Human products may contain ingredients that are harmful if licked or ingested; VCA notes that zinc oxide can damage red blood cells and cause intestinal upset if ingested. Ask a veterinarian to review the exact product before use. If your dog has swallowed sunscreen, contact a veterinarian or animal poison service for guidance.
What should you do if your dog may be sunburned?
- Move your dog out of direct sunlight. Bring the dog indoors or into shade.
- Arrange veterinary advice for a visible burn. Sunburn can resemble other skin problems, and a veterinarian can assess the injury and advise on care.
- Do not give medication or apply topical remedies without veterinary advice. A cool compress may soothe the skin while you arrange care.
- Seek prompt veterinary attention for serious signs. Blisters, open wounds, significant pain, dark purple skin, lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, fever, or dehydration warrant urgent attention.
Treatment depends on the injury and the dog’s condition. Do not try to manage a significant burn or other concerning reaction with unapproved medication or topical products.
A practical sun-safety checklist for dogs
- Check the nose, ears, belly, groin, inner thighs, and skin around the eyes and mouth.
- Provide shade and avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours.
- Remember that water and pale surfaces can reflect sunlight.
- Use comfortable protective clothing if your dog tolerates it, without assuming an unsupported UV rating.
- Choose dog-formulated sunscreen, follow its label, prevent licking, and ask a veterinarian for guidance.
- Avoid sunscreen containing zinc oxide or PABA.
- Ask a veterinarian to assess visible burns or uncertain symptoms; seek prompt care for severe signs.
FAQ
Can dogs get sunburn on the nose?
Yes. The nose, especially where skin is lightly pigmented or exposed, can be vulnerable. Redness, warmth, pain, cracking, or a persistent sore should be assessed by a veterinarian because other conditions can look similar.
Best Value
- High-Performance Sun Protection for Dogs: Formulated with SPF 25 and broad-spectrum filters, this spray shields your dog’s skin from harsh UVA and UVB rays. Ideal for daily walks, beach trips, and outdoor play in strong sunlight
- Oil-Based Formula with Long-Lasting Coverage: Unlike water-based formulas, our oil-based blend creates a durable, breathable barrier that locks in moisture and ensures longer-lasting coverage without frequent reapplication
- Water-Resistant & Sweat-Proof: Designed for active dogs, this formula stays effective even through water play or high-energy activities. Perfect for beach days, hikes, or hot summer afternoons
- Fragrance-Free & Gentle on Skin: No artificial fragrances or dyes. Enriched with glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and botanical extracts like calendula and green tea to help maintain skin comfort during sun exposure
- Non-Sticky & Quick-Drying: The non-greasy formula dries quickly, leaving no sticky residue behind. Perfect for fuss-free use before outdoor activities and ensures your dog stays comfortable throughout the day
Do hairless dogs need sun protection?
Hairless dogs have less fur covering their skin and need careful sun protection. Provide shade, avoid prolonged direct exposure, and consider comfortable protective clothing or dog-formulated sunscreen with veterinary guidance.
Can white dogs get sunburned?
Yes. White or light-colored dogs may be at greater risk, particularly where skin is lightly pigmented or exposed. Any dog can have vulnerable areas.
When should I take my dog to the vet for sunburn?
Arrange veterinary assessment for a visible burn, and seek prompt attention for blisters, open wounds, significant pain, dark purple skin, lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, fever, or dehydration.
The Bottom Line
Yes, dogs can get sunburns. Reduce exposure with shade and breaks, and consider clothing or dog-formulated sunscreen for exposed skin. Ask a veterinarian about visible burns, uncertain symptoms, product safety, or severe signs.
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