Hot Dog, Hold the Burn: Do Dogs Really Need Sunscreen?
Photo by Frames For Your Heart on Unsplash
We get it. Summer is for sunshine, patio brunches, and long walks with your favorite four-legged plus-one. But while you’re slathering on your SPF 50 and sipping iced lattes, there’s one thing most pet parents forget to ask:
Does my dog need sunscreen too?
Short answer?
Absolutely, yes.
Dogs Can Get Sunburned — And It’s Not Cute
Your dog’s fur may be a built-in fashion statement, but it’s not always a full-body sun shield. Dogs with short coats, light-colored fur, pink noses, or exposed skin (think: belly, ears, and snout) are especially at risk of sunburn — and even more serious damage, like skin cancer.
Some of the signs your dog’s been sunburned include:
- Red or irritated skin (especially on their nose, ears, or belly)
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Dry, cracked, or peeling skin
- Whimpering when touched
Just like with humans, sun damage adds up over time. And your pup doesn’t need to be at the beach for it to happen — a simple walk or backyard hang can be enough on a high UV day.
Canine-Safe Sunscreen Exists — But Not All Sunscreens Are Safe
Here’s the deal: never use human sunscreen on your dog.
Ingredients like zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) — safe for us — are toxic to dogs if licked or ingested.
Instead, look for dog-safe sunscreens that are:
- Fragrance-free
- Non-toxic
- Designed for pets (not babies — not even the “gentle” kind)
Apply to sun-sensitive areas: their nose, belly, ears, and any exposed skin. And yes, you’ll need to reapply if your pup is swimming or out for long periods.
Other Ways to Keep Your Pup Safe in the Sun
Seek Shade
If you’re outside for more than 15–20 minutes, make sure your pup has access to a shaded area. Portable umbrellas, tents, or trees are your new best friends.
Hydrate Like It’s Their Job
Always bring water when you’re outdoors. Collapsible bowls and hydration packs are easy wins for summer strolls.
Limit Peak Sun Time
UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try early morning or late evening walks to keep your pup cooler and safer.
Consider UV-Protective Gear
Sun shirts and goggles (yes, doggles are real) can protect sensitive pups from both heat and light. They also look ridiculously cute, so…win-win.
Paw Patrol
Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paw pads. Use your hand to test — if it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for theirs.
At Doolce + Diego, we believe wellness doesn’t clock out in the summer.
It’s year-round. It’s preventative. And it’s rooted in real care.
Whether it’s sunscreen, hydration, or just staying cool, protecting your dog’s skin is part of protecting their health.
Because that sun-kissed glow? That’s for you.
Your dog just wants shade, safety, and a cold bowl of water.
For more no-BS pet wellness insights → Bark Times
