Last updated on July 31st, 2026 at 12:35 am
Last summer a client brought in her Bull Terrier, Duke, after a beach day. His nose was cracked, peeling, and painful to the touch.
Diagnosis: Sunburn
Bad enough that we had to treat it like a wound — antibiotic ointment, an e-collar so he’d stop licking it, and a stern talk with mom about SPF.
That’s the thing nobody tells new dog owners: your dog can get sunburned just like you can. And it’s not just uncomfortable — it can lead to real skin damage over time.
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Why Sun Protection Matters
Dogs’ skin isn’t as protected from UV rays as you’d think, especially on the nose, ears, and belly where fur is thin or nonexistent. According to the Moffitt Cancer Center, repeated sun exposure without protection raises the risk of skin cancer, not just burns.
This isn’t a “nice to have.” If your dog fits any of the categories below, sunscreen belongs in your summer routine right next to the leash and the water bowl.
Which Dogs Actually Need It
Short-haired or hairless breeds. Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier, Xoloitzcuintli — minimal coat means minimal natural protection.
Light-colored fur and pink skin. Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, and other breeds with white or light patches burn faster. Less pigment means less natural defense against UV.
Dogs with thin or shaved coats. If your dog’s been shaved for a medical reason or just doesn’t have much coat to begin with (looking at you, Whippets), that skin is exposed.
Puppies and senior dogs. Thinner, more sensitive skin at both ends of the age spectrum.
If your dog checks any of these boxes and spends real time outside, don’t skip this.
How to Choose and Apply Doggy Sunscreen
Do not reach for your own sunscreen bottle. Human sunscreen often contains zinc oxide or PABA — both toxic if your dog licks it off, which they will.
Here’s the right way to do it:
- Use a pet-specific sunscreen. No zinc oxide, no PABA, formulated for dogs.
- Patch test first. Small amount on the skin, wait 24 hours, watch for irritation.
- Target the vulnerable spots. Nose, ear tips, belly, groin — anywhere skin shows through.
- Reapply. Every few hours, and immediately after swimming.
Here are a few doggy sunscreens you can try:
Nourishing, non-greasy sun protection with shea butter and coconut oil — covers the nose, ears, belly, and paws where dogs burn fastest.
A no-grease, fast-absorbing formula with Vitamin E and antioxidants — built to target the nose, ears, and belly where sunburn hits hardest, with extra reassurance for light-skinned, sensitive dogs.
Gentle Creatures Pet Sun Protector
A zinc-free spray with olive oil, Vitamin E, and lecithin — massage onto the nose, ears, and belly 20 minutes before sun exposure. Easy non-aerosol application, made in the USA, safe for both dogs and cats with light fur.
Other Sun Protection Tips
In addition to sunscreen, consider these tips to protect your dog from sun damage:
- Provide Shade: Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas when outdoors.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the UV rays are strongest. Also monitor for any signs of your dog getting overheated like heavy panting and weakness.
- Protective Clothing: Use protective clothing, such as UV-blocking shirts, for additional coverage.
Final Note – Do Dogs Need Sunscreen
Duke healed up fine, but it took two weeks of daily ointment and a very unhappy dog in a cone. A few dollars of sunscreen would’ve saved him the misery.
If your dog has thin fur, light skin, or spends real time outdoors this summer, sunscreen isn’t optional. Ask your vet for a product recommendation if you’re not sure where to start.
Now you know.
Dr. Georgina Ushi is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009. Dr. Ushi has worked for 16 years in the Tampa Bay area, providing compassionate care to dogs, cats, and exotic pets.
In addition to her clinical work, she serves as an adjunct instructor at Florida A&M University, teaching in the veterinary technology program. Dr. Ushi also consults for pet well-being brands and writes evidence-based pet health content for Pet Health Love, as well as for PetMD. She is passionate about educating and empowering pet owners through clear, trustworthy information.
Her professional interests include emergency medicine, dermatology, pet telehealth, nutrition, and wildlife medicine.
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