Whether it's a sunny backyard picnic or a hike, one of the best parts of having a dog is exploring the great outdoors together. But wait — can dogs get sunburn? While some dogs have a higher risk of sunburn than others, any dog can get one. Sunburns are uncomfortable, and they can increase some pups' risk of developing skin cancer. Fortunately, you can minimize your canine companion's chances of sun damage.
Read on to learn about dog sunburns, including common signs, risk factors, how to treat sunburn on dogs and tips for prevention.
What Is Sunburn in Dogs?
Sunburn is caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, leading to inflammation that damages the skin. Multiple sunburns can cause skin cancer in predisposed dogs. The areas of skin most likely to get sunburned include the nose, tips of the ears and belly.
Types of Sunburn
Sunburns are categorized by skin damage severity. Contact a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's sunburn, no matter how mild or severe it may seem.
First-Degree
First-degree sunburns damage the skin's outer layer (epidermis). They usually heal on their own within a few days without treatment.
Second-Degree
Second-degree sunburns damage the skin's outer and middle layers (dermis). Second-degree sunburns may cause blisters and introduce infection risk. They can take weeks to heal and require veterinary treatment.
Third-Degree
Third-degree sunburns are rare and require emergency care. These burns severely damage all layers of the skin and destroy nerves. Third-degree burns are usually caused by fires or chemical burns, not sun exposure, and can take months to heal.
What Are the Signs of Sunburn in Dogs?
The signs of sunburn in dogs are typically consistent across all breeds and ages. With a mild sunburn, you might notice your pup's skin is slightly pinker or redder than normal.
When to Take Your Dog to the Vet
Take your dog to a veterinarian for immediate treatment if you notice any of these signs:
Dark red or purple skin
Swollen or leathery skin
Crusting or peeling
Blisters
White discoloration inside the burn area
Oozing skin or skin that appears wet
Fever
Shivers
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Signs of heatstroke
The signs of sunburn in dogs can mimic several other skin diseases, including infections, autoimmune disorders and skin cancer. Consult your veterinarian about any abnormal skin conditions, including sunburn, to rule out other causes and minimize your pup's discomfort.
What Puts Dogs at Higher Risk of Sunburn?
These factors can increase dogs' odds of sun damage:
Pink skin
Hairless or short-haired breeds
Hairless noses and ears
Extended exposure to sunlight during the day
Shaved or closely trimmed hair
Medications that increase sun sensitivity
Examples of short-haired breeds include Dalmatians, greyhounds, vizslas, and Weimaraners .
Tasty Tips
How to Treat Sunburn on Dogs
A sunburn isn't always a veterinary emergency. Mild sunburns that result in pink skin typically don't need treatment and will heal on their own within a few days. If your dog tolerates it, you can apply a cool compress to the affected area to help them feel more comfortable. Never use ice packs. You can also give your dog a bath with cool water and soothing oatmeal shampoo.
Veterinary Treatment
Anything more severe than a mild sunburn requires your vet's attention. Sunburns are considered emergencies if your dog's skin oozes, blisters or turns dark red or purple. Pups who aren't eating or drinking, show signs ofdehydration or appear to be in pain also need prompt care.
Sunburn treatment depends on the burn's severity and your dog's signs. It can include:
Antibiotics for skin infection
Medicated cream or lotion
Petroleum jelly
Fluids for dehydration
Pain medication
Skin grafts (for severe burns)
If your dog has blisters or peeling skin, leave them alone. Picking at the skin can disrupt healing and lead to infection.
How to Prevent Dog Sunburn
The best way to deal with sunburns is to prevent them in the first place. You can take several steps to prevent sunburns, including:
Limit sun exposure — especially if your dog is predisposed to sunburns — between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Put a T-shirt on your dog when they go outside.
Apply a vet-approved dog sunscreen to sunburn-prone areas of skin. Reapply every 90 minutes.
Have your dog's skin checked by a veterinarian once a year.
Protecting Your Dog's Skin Health
So, can dogs get sunburn? Yes! And now you know how to spot the signs of sunburn and prevent them from occurring in the first place. Armed with this information, you and your dog can safely enjoy summer and all the wonderful adventures the outdoors has to offer!
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