Your dog needs sunscreen if he has light-colored hair or nose, spends a lot of time outdoors, or has any bald spots.
Like humans, dogs are susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays and can experience sunburns, rashes, and sun allergies. Even worse, prolonged exposure can cause your dog to develop skin cancer.
From prickling sensation and itching to the dangers of skin cancer, pets are also vulnerable to these skin conditions when exposed to intense sun rays.
Thus, your dog needs sunscreen to be protected against these harmful rays.
And, if you think your pet does not require sun protection, discover the risk factors to understand the most common reasons why your dog needs sunscreen.
Short hair
Some dogs have naturally short hair, and if you have a short-haired dog breed who loves to enjoy beach parties or basking under the sun, you should consider using sunscreen to protect your dog.
If you shave your dog’s coat in the summer, you must protect your pup by considering how much time your dog spends under the sun.
You might not know dogs with short coats tend to get sunburns more than their long-haired counterparts.
Light-colored nose
If your dog’s nose is light-colored, you should consider protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays. A nose balm provides extra protection.
Bald spot
Has your dog undergone any surgery? Is he bald or has a bare belly? If the answer to these is “YES,” your dog will need sunscreen.
When your dog is in the sun for more than 15 minutes, always apply a layer of pet sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
Spending time outside
Does your dog love to spend most of the time outdoors? Does he enjoy the whole day on the beach, hiking the trails, roaming in the woods, splashing in the pool, or kayaking?
If so, your dog needs sunscreen. Never leave him outside uncovered for long periods.
Like humans, sunscreen should be applied often, especially after swimming or exercise.
A white coat
Is your dog as white as snow, or have a light-colored coat? Then, using sunscreen is a must. Light-colored hair dogs are usually highly susceptible to skin conditions due to sun exposure. Thus, use sunscreen regularly on your furry pal and never skip covering them when outdoors.
Choose dog-safe sunscreen
When choosing a sunscreen for your dog, it’s important to look for a formula that is specifically designed for pets.
Avoid sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and octyl salicylate, as these ingredients can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Also, avoid human sunscreen.
Opt for a fragrance-free and waterproof sunscreen, as dogs may lick their fur after application or if they have been swimming.
Additionally, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to ensure adequate protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Remember to apply sunscreen to areas with thin hair and exposed skin, such as the nose, ears, and belly.
Always consult with your veterinarian before using any new products on your pet.
How to apply sunscreen
When applying sunscreen to your dog, start by choosing a pet-safe sunscreen that is free of harmful ingredients.
Begin by carefully reading and following the product’s instructions.
Before applying the sunscreen, ensure that your dog’s coat is clean and dry.
Apply the sunscreen generously to the areas with thin or light-colored hair, such as the nose, ears, belly, and any other exposed skin.
Be mindful of your dog’s tendency to lick itself, so try to distract them after applying the sunscreen to allow it to be absorbed before they can ingest it.
If your dog loves the water, use a waterproof sunscreen and reapply as directed, especially after swimming.
Always monitor for any adverse reactions and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Watch for sunburn signs
After applying sunscreen to your dog, it is important to monitor them for signs of sunburn or other sun-related skin issues.
Watch for any redness, irritation, or excessive licking or scratching, as these could indicate a reaction to the sunscreen or sun exposure.
Additionally, watch for any changes in your dog’s behavior, such as increased sensitivity to touch or reluctance to be in the sun.
Inspect your dog’s skin regularly, especially on areas with thin hair, for signs of sunburn or unusual skin changes.
If you notice any concerns, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Remember to provide shaded areas for your dog to rest and limit their time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours.
Regular monitoring and proactive measures can help ensure your dog’s skin health and overall well-being.
Dog breeds prone to sunburn
Due to their genetic makeup and physical characteristics, some dog breeds are more prone to sunburn and sun-related skin conditions.
Dogs with light-colored and thin fur, such as Dalmatians, Boxers, Bull Terriers, and Pit Bulls, are particularly susceptible to sunburn.
Additionally, hairless breeds like the Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli are more vulnerable to sun damage due to their lack of protective fur.
Owners of these breeds should be especially vigilant about sun protection, including using pet-safe sunscreen and limiting exposure to intense sunlight.
Monitoring these dogs for any signs of sun damage, such as redness, irritation, or dry skin, is also crucial in preventing more serious conditions like sunburn and skin cancer.
Sun exposure risks
Sun exposure poses several risks for dogs, including sunburns, rashes, and sun allergies.
Prolonged exposure to the sun can even lead to the development of skin cancer in dogs.
Just like humans, pets are also susceptible to these skin conditions when exposed to intense sun rays.
Factors such as short hair, light-colored nose, bald spots, spending extended periods outside, and having a white or light-colored coat can increase the risk of sun-related skin issues in dogs.
To protect our furry friends, it’s important to understand the risks associated with sun exposure and take necessary precautions to ensure their well-being.
Use sunscreen safety
Sunscreen plays a natural part in protecting your furry companion against sun-related skin conditions. However, there is always the question of how safe sunscreens are for your pet.
From a few selected and clinically proven sunscreens recommended by the vet and animal health communities. Types of dog sunscreen include a nose balm, sunscreen spray, or wipes.
If your dog is in the water, consider water-resistant sunscreen.
Owners see the need for sunscreen
A 2023 survey of 2,000 U.S. pet owners conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Merck Animal Health discovered that 15% apply sunblock to their pets.
From a few selected and clinically proven sunscreens recommended by the vet and animal health communities. Options to consider include a nose balm, sunscreen spray, or wipes.
Over half make sure their animals have access to fresh water (59%) and fans or air conditioning (54%), while almost half check for fleas and ticks (47%), as well as limit outdoor activities and time spent outside (46%).
Importance of regular vet checks
Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your pet’s skin health.
Vets can identify and address any skin issues early on, provide recommendations for preventative care, and offer guidance on how to keep your pet’s skin healthy.
Additionally, routine check-ups can help detect any underlying health conditions that may manifest as skin problems.
By staying proactive with vet check-ups, you can promptly ensure your pet’s overall well-being and address any skin-related concerns.
Final thoughts on knowing when your dog needs sunscreen
Remember that dogs can suffer from sunburns and sun-related skin conditions just like humans.
It’s important to be aware of the risk factors that make your dog susceptible to sun damage and to take the necessary precautions, such as using pet-friendly sunscreen and providing shade and water when spending time outdoors.
By being proactive and using the right protection, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays safe and healthy in the sun.
Jamie Hytten is a Birmingham-based content writer with vast experience writing about pets and their healthcare. Over the past decade, he has ghostwritten for many top pet care sites. Besides writing, he loves spending time with his family and pet dogs.
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