Can Dogs Get Sunburn? The Surprising Truth About Sun Safety for Your Pup

Can dogs get sunburn? Yes, they absolutely can, especially on areas with thin fur or light-colored skin, such as the nose, ear tips, and belly. Many owners assume a coat of fur provides complete protection, but ultraviolet (UV) rays can still damage exposed or thinly covered skin. Repeated burns can also raise a dog’s risk of certain skin cancers over time. In Shreveport, where sunny days stretch from early spring well into fall, sun exposure is a real part of daily life for many local pets. Whether your dog loves lounging on the patio, splashing in Cross Lake, or tagging along on weekend hikes, it pays to understand how the sun affects their skin. At University Veterinary Hospital, we often help pet owners who are surprised to learn their dog has been burned. Here’s what you should know about which dogs are most at risk, how to spot the signs, and what steps protect your pup’s skin all year.

Can Dogs Get Sunburned? Understanding the Risk

Every dog can burn under the right conditions, but some face a much higher risk than others.

Sunburn happens when UV radiation damages the outer layers of the skin, causing inflammation, redness, and discomfort. Fur acts as a natural barrier, so the most vulnerable spots are the places where hair is sparse or skin is lightly pigmented. People who ask “can dogs get sunburn” are often surprised to learn that the belly is one of the most commonly burned areas, particularly for dogs who sunbathe on their backs.

Dogs at Higher Risk

Certain traits make some dogs more prone to sun damage than others:

• Short-haired or hairless breeds, such as pit bull terriers, whippets, boxers, Dalmatians, and Chinese cresteds
• Dogs with white or light-colored coats and pink skin underneath
• Dogs with pink noses or light pigment around the eyes and lips
• Pets that have been recently shaved or clipped short for summer
• Dogs with hair loss from allergies, infections, or hormonal conditions
• Outdoor dogs who spend long hours without access to shade

Why Repeated Exposure Matters

A single mild burn may heal on its own, but chronic exposure is a more serious concern. Over time, repeated sun damage can lead to a condition called solar dermatitis, which causes thickened, scaly, or crusted skin. Long-term UV exposure is also linked to certain skin cancers in dogs, including squamous cell carcinoma and hemangiosarcoma of the skin. That’s why the question “can dogs get sunburn” has a much bigger answer than a few pink patches after a long afternoon outdoors.

Do Dogs Need Sunscreen?

Some dogs benefit from sunscreen, but choosing the right product matters just as much as using one.

Dogs with thick, dark coats who spend most of their time indoors may never need extra protection. For high-risk pups, however, a pet-safe sunscreen can be a helpful part of an overall sun-safety plan, especially on the nose, ear tips, and belly.

Why Human Sunscreen Isn’t the Answer

It may be tempting to reach for the bottle in your beach bag, but many human sunscreens contain ingredients that can harm dogs if licked or swallowed. Two of the biggest concerns are zinc oxide, which can be toxic when ingested, and salicylates, which are related to aspirin. Since dogs naturally lick their noses and groom their skin, they are likely to swallow at least some of whatever you apply. Fragrances and other additives may also irritate sensitive canine skin.

Talk to Your Veterinarian First

Before using any sunscreen on your pet, ask your veterinary team for a recommendation. They can suggest a product formulated for dogs and help you identify which areas of your pet’s body need the most protection. If your dog has existing skin issues, allergies, or a history of sun damage, a personalized plan is especially important.

Keep in mind that sunscreen is only one tool. Even the best product works best alongside shade, smart timing, and protective gear. Owners who wonder whether dogs need sunscreen should think of it as a supplement to good habits rather than a replacement for them. Pet parents who still ask “can dogs get sunburn even with sunscreen on” should know that the answer is yes, if the product wears off or the dog stays in direct sun for too long.

How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Sunburned?

Sunburn in dogs looks similar to sunburn in people, though fur can make it harder to notice right away. If you’ve wondered can dogs get sunburn under all that hair, the answer often shows up in the places where fur is thinnest.

Check your dog’s most exposed areas after time outdoors, especially the bridge of the nose, the tips and edges of the ears, the belly, the inner thighs, and any spots where the fur has thinned. Signs of a burn often appear within a few hours of sun exposure and may continue to develop over the next day.

Common Sunburn Symptoms

Watch for these signs that your dog’s skin has been affected by the sun:

• Red or pink skin that feels warm to the touch
• Dry, cracked, or peeling skin, especially along ear tips
• Tenderness, flinching, or pulling away when touched
• Blisters or open sores in more severe cases
• Hair loss in the affected area
• Excessive scratching, licking, or rubbing at the skin

When Symptoms Point to Something More

A severe burn can come with fever, lethargy, or signs of heat-related illness, such as heavy panting, weakness, or vomiting. Because sunburn and overheating often happen together, these symptoms call for prompt veterinary attention. In addition, sores that don’t heal, crusty patches that keep returning, or new lumps on sun-exposed skin should always be examined. These changes can be early signs of solar dermatitis or skin cancer, and early detection makes a meaningful difference.

How to Prevent Dog Sunburns

Prevention is the most effective way to protect your dog’s skin, and a few simple habits go a long way.

Louisiana’s strong sun and long warm season mean that sun safety isn’t just a midsummer concern. Can dogs get sunburn on overcast days? They can, because UV rays pass through clouds, so it helps to build protection into your regular routine.

Time Outdoor Activities Wisely

UV rays are typically strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Schedule walks, play sessions, and outdoor training for early morning or evening whenever possible. This also helps reduce the risk of heat-related illness and protects paws from hot pavement.

Provide Shade and Cover

Owners who ask can dogs get sunburn in the backyard should know that shade is one of the simplest fixes. Make sure your dog always has access to a shaded spot when spending time outside, whether that’s a covered patio, a shade tree, or a canopy. Lightweight UV-protective dog shirts and rash guards can offer extra coverage for short-haired or light-skinned dogs who spend extended time outdoors. For dogs with sensitive eyes, protective canine goggles are another option.

Can Dogs Get Sunburn After a Summer Shave?

Yes, and it’s one of the most common ways it happens. It may seem like shaving your dog will keep them cool, but a dog’s coat actually helps shield their skin from the sun and regulate temperature. This is especially true for double-coated breeds. Ask your groomer or veterinarian about a safe trim length instead of a full shave.

Stay Consistent With Checkups

Routine wellness exams give your veterinarian a chance to check your dog’s skin for early signs of sun damage and answer any questions about sun protection for your individual pet.

What Does Dog Sunburn Treatment Involve?

If you suspect a sunburn, the best first step is to bring your dog indoors, out of the sun, and contact your veterinarian.

It’s natural to want to soothe your pup’s skin with home remedies, but many common sunburn products for people, including some creams, sprays, and aloe preparations, contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs. Applying the wrong product can also irritate damaged skin or lead to infection if your dog licks it. For these reasons, the team at University Veterinary Hospital recommends calling us at for guidance before trying anything at home.

What to Expect at the Vet

During the visit, your veterinarian will examine the burned areas, assess how severe the damage is, and check for signs of heat stress or infection. Mild burns may only need monitoring and a plan to limit further sun exposure while the skin heals. More significant burns may require prescription medications to reduce pain and inflammation, treatment for secondary infections, or specialized wound care.

Long-Term Skin Monitoring

For dogs with repeated burns or chronic sun damage, your veterinarian may recommend regular skin checks and, in some cases, biopsies of suspicious spots. Catching problems early opens the door to more treatment options and better outcomes.

Sun-Smart Care for Shreveport Dogs

So, can dogs get sunburn? They certainly can, and for some dogs, sun damage is a year-round concern rather than a once-a-summer surprise. Short coats, light skin, pink noses, and long hours outdoors all raise the risk, while shade, smart scheduling, and pet-safe protection help lower it. Because sunburn can lead to lasting skin problems and is sometimes linked with overheating, it’s always worth taking seriously. At University Veterinary Hospital, our team is happy to help Shreveport pet owners build a sun-safety plan tailored to their dog’s breed, coat, and lifestyle. We can recommend pet-safe products, examine any areas of concern, and provide care if your dog has already been burned. If you’ve noticed red, peeling, or tender skin on your pup, or you simply want advice before the next sunny weekend, call us at to schedule a visit.