Some of us humans love to soak up the sun on a hot summer day, and some of us prefer to sit in the shade. Some of us burn and some of us get a nice summer glow, but all of us take the necessary precautions to protect our skin. Our canine companions love to feel the sun on their snouts, and, just like us, they need to protect their fur and skin during these UV filled months. We’re breaking down how the sun affects our dogs differently, how dangerous is excess sun exposure, and, ultimately, if dogs need sunscreen too.
A lot of sun is not for everyone
The two types of dogs who are most susceptible to sun damage are ones with light or thin (or no) fur. Greyhounds, Whippets, Pitbulls, and most breeds of Terriers, have shorter or thinner fur than their furrier friends and have a higher risk of sunburn. Dogs from harsher climates, like the Xoloitzcuintli, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Chinese Crested Dogs, and Jonangi have developed a gene for hairlessness throughout their evolution. While this helps them deal with the heat, it can leave them more susceptible to skin damage from prolonged sun exposure.
There are certain breeds that are best suited to sunnier climates like the Australian Cattle Dog or the Vizsla because they are working dogs with short coats and athletic builds. While their neighbors like the Australian Sheepdog and Polish Lowland Sheepdog have a thick coat of fur and are used to colder climates for their work. Thicker fur does better protect their skin from UV rays, but it does also mean that they have a harder time staying cool in hot climates.
Potential Risks
Dogs can get skin cancer, and like humans, prolonged unprotected exposure heightens their risk. When you’re doing routine flea and tick checks on your dog, note any new moles or discoloration on their skin. If you aren’t sure what to look for, you can ask your vet to do a check too. While dogs won’t get wrinkles and age spots, excess sun exposure causes dehydration, fatigue, and sunburn which can lead to greater health issues later on.
Safe Sun Exposure
We want to have plenty of time in the sun this summer and we want to stay safe while doing it. Try walking your dog earlier in the morning and later at night to keep them out of the height of UV rays during the day. When you do have to go out midday for a potty break, try to stay near shaded and grassy areas. If your dog loves the sun or you live in an especially hot area, try keeping a cooling pad or a kiddy pool filled with ice water for your pup to cool off in. As always, make sure they are drinking plenty of water throughout the day!
So, do dogs need sunscreen?
The short answer is yes, especially if they have a shorter coat that leaves them more exposed to the sun. You can order dog sunscreen–don’t use the human kind on them–online. While dogs have lived thousands of years without sunscreen, now that we have access to it, giving your dog a little sunscreen before time in the sun gives you peace of mind that you are doing the most to protect your dog in the sun.
