Can Dogs Get Sunburn? Risks, Signs and Support

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.

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.

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.

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 .