Can Dogs Get Sunburn? Signs, Treatment & Prevention Tips
Can Dogs Get Sunburn? Signs, Treatment & How to Protect Your Dog
Many dog owners are surprised to learn that dogs can get sunburn just like people. While a dog's coat provides some protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays, it doesn't completely block harmful sunlight—especially in dogs with thin coats, white fur, pink skin, or hairless breeds.
A mild sunburn may cause redness and discomfort, but severe or repeated sun exposure can damage the skin, increase the risk of infection, and may even contribute to certain types of skin cancer over time.
The good news is that sunburn is largely preventable. Understanding when dogs are most at risk can help keep your companion safe during sunny weather.
Yes, dogs can get sunburn. Dogs with white fur, pink skin, thin coats, or little hair are especially vulnerable. Mild sunburn usually causes redness and tenderness, while severe sunburn may lead to blisters, pain, and skin damage that requires veterinary treatment.
In this guide, you'll learn which dogs are most likely to get sunburn, how to recognize the warning signs, what to do if your dog gets burned, and the best ways to prevent sun damage.
Can Dogs Really Get Sunburn?
Absolutely.
Just like human skin, a dog's skin can be damaged by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Fur acts as a natural barrier, but areas with little or no hair remain highly exposed to the sun.
Veterinarians most commonly see sunburn during late spring and summer, particularly in dogs that spend several hours outdoors during the middle of the day.
Repeated sunburn isn't simply uncomfortable—it can also contribute to long-term skin changes and increase the risk of certain skin cancers in susceptible dogs.
Even on cooler days, UV radiation can be surprisingly strong. Dogs may develop sunburn during long walks, hikes, beach trips, or while relaxing in the backyard if they spend too much time in direct sunlight without shade.
Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?
Although any dog can develop sunburn under the right conditions, some breeds and coat types are much more susceptible.
Dogs at the highest risk include:
- Dogs with white or very light-colored coats.
- Hairless breeds.
- Dogs with thin or sparse fur.
- Dogs with pink noses or lightly pigmented skin.
- Senior dogs with thinning coats.
- Dogs recovering from surgery where the fur has been shaved.
Breeds such as the Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier, Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Boxer, Dalmatian, and Whippet may require extra protection during sunny weather.
Where Do Dogs Usually Get Sunburn?
Sunburn typically affects areas where the coat is naturally thin or where skin is directly exposed.
- Nose.
- Ear tips.
- Eyelids.
- Belly.
- Groin.
- Areas with shaved or thin fur.
These regions receive the greatest UV exposure and usually show symptoms first.
Common Signs of Sunburn in Dogs
Sunburn symptoms don't always appear immediately. In many cases, redness and discomfort develop several hours after sun exposure.
Mild cases often improve within a few days, while severe burns may require veterinary treatment.
Common signs include:
- Red or pink skin.
- Warm skin that's painful to touch.
- Dry, flaky, or peeling skin.
- Excessive scratching or licking.
- Whining when certain areas are touched.
- Blisters in severe cases.
- Swelling.
If your dog becomes lethargic, develops a fever, or refuses to eat after prolonged sun exposure, heatstroke may also be present and should be treated as an emergency.
Why Some Dogs Burn Faster Than Others
Several factors determine how quickly a dog develops sunburn.
The highest risk occurs when multiple factors combine, such as a light-colored dog spending several hours outdoors during peak sunlight.
| Dog Type | Sunburn Risk |
|---|---|
| Hairless breeds | ★★★★★ Very High |
| White-coated dogs | ★★★★★ Very High |
| Thin-coated breeds | ★★★★☆ High |
| Short-haired dogs | ★★★☆☆ Moderate |
| Double-coated breeds | ★☆☆☆☆ Lower |
How to Treat Mild Sunburn
If your dog develops mild sunburn, early treatment can improve comfort and reduce further skin damage.
- Move your dog into a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Offer plenty of fresh drinking water.
- Apply cool (not ice-cold) compresses for several minutes.
- Prevent additional sun exposure while the skin heals.
- Avoid scratching or rubbing irritated skin.
- Contact your veterinarian if blisters, severe swelling, or open sores develop.
Never apply human creams or medications unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian.
How to Prevent Sunburn
Fortunately, most cases of sunburn are preventable with a few simple precautions.
- Walk your dog during the early morning or evening.
- Avoid outdoor activity during peak UV hours.
- Provide access to shade whenever your dog is outside.
- Keep fresh water available at all times.
- Use a veterinarian-approved pet sunscreen when appropriate.
- Limit prolonged exposure at the beach or pool.
These simple habits also reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke during hot weather.
Can Dogs Get Skin Cancer From Sun Exposure?
Yes.
Repeated UV damage can increase the risk of certain skin cancers, particularly in lightly pigmented dogs with chronic sun exposure.
Although skin cancer remains relatively uncommon, veterinarians recommend minimizing repeated sunburn throughout your dog's lifetime.
Preventing sunburn today may help protect your dog's long-term health years from now.
When Should You Call a Veterinarian?
Mild sunburn often improves with rest, shade, and supportive care. However, severe sunburn or symptoms affecting your dog's overall health should never be ignored.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog develops blisters, large areas of peeling skin, severe pain, facial swelling, fever, extreme lethargy, vomiting, collapse, or difficulty breathing after spending time in the sun.
| Monitor at Home | See a Veterinarian |
|---|---|
| Mild redness | Blisters or open sores |
| Slight tenderness | Severe pain when touched |
| Normal appetite and energy | Lethargy, vomiting, or fever |
| Improves within 24–48 hours | Symptoms worsen or fail to improve |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs get sunburn through their fur?
Yes. Thick coats provide some protection, but dogs with thin, light-colored, or sparse fur can still develop sunburn after prolonged UV exposure.
Can puppies get sunburn?
Yes. Puppies with light skin or thin coats are especially sensitive to ultraviolet rays and should not spend long periods in direct sunlight.
Can dogs get sunburn on cloudy days?
Yes. Ultraviolet rays can pass through clouds, so sunburn is still possible even when temperatures feel mild.
Can I use human sunscreen on my dog?
No. Many human sunscreens contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which may be toxic if licked. Only use products specifically formulated for pets and approved by your veterinarian.
How long does sunburn last in dogs?
Mild cases often improve within several days, while severe burns may require veterinary treatment and take considerably longer to heal.
Can sunburn increase the risk of skin cancer?
Yes. Repeated UV exposure can increase the risk of certain skin cancers, particularly in dogs with light pigmentation or little natural protection from sunlight.
Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer ☀️🐶
Fresh water, shade, and avoiding the hottest part of the day are some of the easiest ways to protect your dog from sunburn and heat-related illness.
Portable Dog Water Bottle
Professional Pet Grooming Kit
4L Automatic Pet Feeder
Trusted Sources
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- VCA Animal Hospitals
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Last updated: July 2026 • This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your dog develops severe sunburn, blisters, difficulty breathing, vomiting, collapse, or other concerning symptoms after sun exposure, seek veterinary care immediately.