Can dogs get sunburned? Sun safety for dogs

Yes, dogs can get sunburned, especially on thin-coated, light-colored, or exposed skin like the nose, ears, and belly, and just like with people, too much sun can damage their skin over time. It's a part of summer safety that's easy to overlook because that fur coat seems like full protection. As a bakery that loves sending dogs off on sunny adventures, we want you to know how to keep your pup safe under a bright sky.

A note first: this is general education, not medical advice. If you notice irritated, blistered, or persistently red skin on your dog, check with your vet.

Why dogs get sunburned

A dog's coat offers real protection, but it isn't a complete shield. Areas with thin or sparse fur, the bridge of the nose, the ear tips, the belly, and the groin, are exposed to the sun's rays. Light-colored and white dogs have less pigment to absorb UV, and short-haired or hairless breeds have less coat to begin with. Dogs with skin conditions or patches of hair loss are vulnerable too. The result: sunburn that looks much like ours, with red, tender, sometimes flaky skin.

Which dogs are most at risk

Some pups need extra shade. White and light-coated dogs, such as many Bull Terriers, Dalmatians, and white Boxers, burn more easily. Hairless and thin-coated breeds, like the Chinese Crested or Whippet, have little natural cover. Dogs who love sunbathing belly-up expose a particularly delicate area. And any dog with thinning fur from grooming or a skin issue has less protection. If your dog fits one of these descriptions, plan sun protection into your summer routine.

Signs of sunburn in dogs

Sunburn shows up in familiar ways. Watch for skin that looks red or pink, feels warm or tender to the touch, or seems to bother your dog when handled. Flaking, peeling, or curling at the ear edges can appear after sun exposure. A dog who flinches when you touch a sunny-day hotspot is telling you something. If the skin blisters, breaks open, or doesn't settle down, call your vet, since repeated sun damage can lead to longer-term skin problems.

How to protect your dog from the sun

The best defense is simple: limit peak-sun exposure and provide shade. Keep outings to the cooler, lower-sun hours of morning and evening, and make sure there's always a shady retreat outdoors. For dogs who need more, dog-specific sunscreen can protect vulnerable spots, never use human sunscreen without veterinary guidance, since some ingredients like zinc oxide can be harmful if licked. Lightweight UV-protective shirts are another option for thin-coated dogs. Ask your vet what's right for your pup.

Sun safety fits into heat safety

Sun protection and heat protection go together. The same cool-hour timing that prevents sunburn also reduces the risk of overheating and protects paws from hot pavement. Keep fresh water available, provide shade and airflow, and never leave your dog in a parked car. The AVMA's warm-weather pet safety guidance and Cornell's summer heat safety tips tie these summer safety threads together nicely.

Reward the shady breaks

Teaching a sun-loving dog to enjoy the shade is easier with a tasty incentive. We like making the cool, covered spot the best spot in the yard. Our all-natural, USA-baked Froyo frozen treats give dogs a refreshing, lickable reason to settle out of the sun on a hot afternoon. They're a fun treat, not a sun-protection product, so keep the shade and water coming. For everyday rewards and training calm "settle in the shade" habits, our limited-ingredient Soft & Chewy treats are easy to hand out.

Key takeaways

• Dogs can sunburn, especially on the nose, ears, belly, and thin-furred areas.
• White, light-coated, hairless, and thin-coated dogs are most at risk.
• Signs include red, warm, tender skin and flaking or peeling.
• Protect with shade, cool-hour timing, dog-safe sunscreen, and UV shirts.
• Pair sun safety with hydration, shade, and never leaving a dog in a hot car.

Frequently asked questions

Where do dogs get sunburned most often?

The most exposed spots burn first: the bridge of the nose, the tips of the ears, the belly, and the groin. Thin-furred and light-colored areas are especially vulnerable. Dogs who sunbathe on their backs expose tender belly skin.

Can I use human sunscreen on my dog?

Not without veterinary guidance. Some human sunscreen ingredients, like zinc oxide, can be harmful if a dog licks them. Use a dog-specific sunscreen and ask your vet which product suits your pup.

How do I know if my dog has a sunburn?

Look for pink or red skin that feels warm or tender, along with flaking or peeling in exposed areas. If your dog reacts when you touch the spot, that's a clue. Blistering or skin that won't settle warrants a vet visit.

Are some dogs more prone to sunburn than others?

Yes. White, light-coated, hairless, and thin-coated dogs burn more easily, as do dogs with thinning fur or skin conditions. These pups benefit most from shade, sun-safe timing, and dog-appropriate protection. When unsure, ask your vet.