Quick answer: Yes, dogs can get sunburned, especially on the nose, ear tips, belly and any areas with thin, light or short fur. White, light-colored, hairless and recently shaved dogs are most at risk. Signs include red, warm, tender skin, peeling, hair loss and blistering. Protect your dog by limiting midday sun, providing shade, using UV-protective clothing and applying a sunscreen made for dogs to exposed areas. Avoid human sunscreens containing zinc oxide or salicylates, which can be harmful if licked. See your vet for blistering, open sores, crusting or skin changes that don't heal, since long-term sun exposure can contribute to skin cancer.

Can dogs really get sunburned?

Yes. Dogs can get sunburned when ultraviolet (UV) rays damage their skin. Most dogs have fur that blocks some UV light, but areas with little or no fur, and dogs with light-colored or thin coats, are much more vulnerable.

Sunburn in dogs looks similar to sunburn in people: red, warm, tender skin that may peel or blister. Repeated sun damage over time can lead to a condition called solar dermatitis and increase the risk of skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma and hemangiosarcoma.

Which dogs are most at risk?

Any dog can burn, but these dogs are at higher risk:

• White and light-colored dogs. Less pigment means less natural protection.
• Short-haired or thin-coated breeds. Such as Dalmatians, Whippets, Boxers, Pit Bull types, Bull Terriers and Greyhounds.
• Hairless breeds. Like the Chinese Crested and American Hairless Terrier.
• Dogs with pink noses or skin. Including dogs whose noses have lost pigment.
• Recently shaved or clipped dogs. Shaving removes the coat's protection.
• Dogs who love sunbathing. Especially belly-up sun lovers.
• Dogs with skin conditions or hair loss. Patchy fur leaves skin exposed.
• Dogs at high altitude or near water and sand. UV rays are stronger and reflect off water and sand.

Where dogs burn most

The most common sunburn spots are the bridge and tip of the nose, ear tips, the belly and groin, the inner thighs and areas around the eyes and lips. Dogs who sunbathe on their backs often burn on their belly, where fur is thin.

Pink or lightly pigmented skin anywhere on the body is also at risk. Check these areas after sunny days.

Signs of sunburn in dogs

Look for these signs, usually a few hours after sun exposure:

• Red or pink skin
• Skin that feels warm or tender to the touch
• Flinching or pulling away when touched
• Dry, cracked or peeling skin, especially on ear tips
• Hair loss in exposed areas
• Blisters or crusting
• Licking or scratching sunburned areas
• Fever or lethargy with severe burns

Sunburn can take several hours to show, so check your dog's nose, ear tips and belly in the evening after a long sunny day. Catching early pinkness lets you add shade and protection before it becomes painful.

Sunburn or heatstroke?

Sunburn affects the skin; heatstroke affects the whole body. Both can happen on the same hot, sunny day, and heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency.

Heatstroke signs include heavy panting, drooling, a bright red tongue, weakness, stumbling, vomiting, diarrhea and collapse. If you notice these, move your dog to a cool place, offer small sips of water, wet them with cool, not ice-cold, water and get to a vet right away.

Sunburn alone usually causes red, tender skin without these whole-body signs. If you're unsure, call your vet. The AVMA explains warm weather risks in more detail.

What to do for mild sunburn

For mild redness and warmth, move your dog indoors or into shade and keep them out of the sun until the skin heals. Gently apply a cool, damp cloth to the area to soothe it. Offer fresh water.

Don't apply human creams, aloe products or after-sun lotions without asking your vet first. Some contain ingredients that can be harmful if licked, such as certain alcohols, fragrances or numbing agents. Your vet may recommend a dog-safe soothing product.

Prevent licking or scratching, which can make irritation worse. A soft cone or a lightweight shirt can help.

When to see the vet

Contact your vet if your dog has:

• Blisters, open sores or oozing
• Burns covering a large area
• Crusting, scabbing or skin that doesn't heal
• Signs of pain, fever or lethargy
• Swelling or signs of infection
• Recurring sunburn in the same spot
• Any new lump, sore or skin change on sun-exposed areas

Severe sunburn may need prescription treatment for pain, inflammation or infection. Skin changes that don't heal should be checked for sun-related skin damage or cancer.

Nose care: the most common burn spot

Pink or lightly pigmented noses burn easily, and repeated sunburn can lead to crusting, cracking and pigment loss. Some dogs develop a condition sometimes called "Collie nose," or nasal solar dermatitis, in which the nose becomes sore and scabby after repeated sun exposure.

Apply dog-safe sunscreen or a vet-recommended nose balm before outdoor time. Reapply after your dog licks it off or swims. If your dog's nose stays crusty, raw or develops a sore that doesn't heal, see your vet.

Nose pigment can change with age, seasons and some health conditions. Any sudden or significant change is worth mentioning at your next vet visit.

Can I use sunscreen on my dog?

Yes, but only a sunscreen designed for dogs. Many human sunscreens contain ingredients that can be harmful if your dog licks or swallows them, which most dogs will.

Avoid sunscreens with zinc oxide, which can cause stomach upset and, if a large amount is eaten, more serious problems, and salicylates, such as octisalate or homosalate, which are related to aspirin and can be toxic. The ASPCA recommends calling poison control if your dog eats sunscreen; fees may apply.

Look for a sunscreen labeled for dogs, ideally fragrance-free and made for use on noses and ears. Ask your vet for recommendations, especially for dogs with sensitive skin.

How to apply dog sunscreen

Follow these simple steps:

• Test a small area first. Check for any reaction over 24 hours.
• Apply to exposed areas. Nose, ear tips, belly, groin and any thin-furred spots.
• Rub in well. Massage it in so your dog is less likely to lick it off.
• Distract your dog. Offer a toy or short walk for 10 to 15 minutes so it can absorb.
• Reapply as directed. Usually every few hours and after swimming.

Shade, timing and smart sun habits

Sunscreen is just one tool. The best protection is limiting sun exposure during peak hours, usually from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk your dog in the early morning or evening, when UV levels and temperatures are lower.

Provide plenty of shade in your yard with umbrellas, trees or shade sails. Indoors, sun streaming through windows can burn sunbathing dogs too, so consider blinds or UV film on favorite sunny spots.

Shade also helps prevent overheating. Our guide to keeping your dog safe in summer heat explains heat safety in detail.

UV-protective clothing

Lightweight UV-protective shirts and vests are a great option for at-risk dogs, especially hairless breeds and short-coated dogs who spend time outdoors. Look for breathable, light-colored fabrics with a UPF rating.

Make sure clothing fits comfortably, doesn't restrict movement and doesn't cause overheating. A lightweight bandana can add a little extra coverage on the neck. Browse Happy Yay dog bandanas for breathable summer styles.

Should you shave your dog for summer?

Many vets recommend against shaving double-coated breeds, such as Huskies, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. Their coat helps insulate them from heat and protects their skin from the sun. Shaving can leave skin exposed to sunburn.

If your dog needs a trim, ask your groomer to leave at least an inch of fur. Regular brushing to remove loose undercoat helps them stay cool without losing sun protection. Our guide to spring shedding in dogs explains how to manage the coat.

Can dogs get sunburned indoors?

Yes, it's possible. Dogs who spend hours sunbathing in front of windows or glass doors can be exposed to UV rays, especially UVA, which passes through many types of glass.

If your dog has a favorite sunny window spot and is at risk of sunburn, consider UV-blocking window film or sheer curtains. Move their bed slightly out of the strongest light, and check their nose and belly regularly.

Beaches, boats and pools

Water and sand reflect UV rays, increasing sun exposure. Dogs at the beach, on boats or by the pool can burn faster than you'd expect.

Bring shade, reapply dog sunscreen after swimming, take regular breaks and limit time in direct sun. Our guides to dog beach day guide and dog water safety and swimming have more tips.

Sun exposure and skin cancer

Repeated sun damage over many years can increase the risk of certain skin cancers in dogs, particularly in light-skinned, short-coated breeds that sunbathe often. Squamous cell carcinoma often appears on the nose, ears or belly as crusty, scabby or non-healing sores.

Check your dog's skin regularly, especially sun-exposed areas, and show your vet any new lumps, sores or skin changes. Early detection makes a big difference. Our year-end dog health checklist is a handy reminder for routine checks.

Senior dogs and dogs with skin conditions

Older dogs often have thinner coats and slower-healing skin, which can make them more vulnerable to sunburn. Dogs with allergies, hair loss, autoimmune skin conditions or hormonal disorders that cause thinning fur may also burn more easily.

Talk to your vet about sun protection if your dog has a skin condition. Some medications can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Our guide to caring for a senior dog covers other summer comfort tips for older pups.

Breeds and coats most at risk

Any dog can burn on thin-haired or exposed skin, but some dogs need extra protection all summer.

• White and light-coated dogs. Pink skin under a light coat burns more easily. Think Dalmatians, white Bull Terriers, white Boxers and light-coated Pit Bull types.
• Hairless and thin-coated breeds. Chinese Crested, American Hairless Terrier, Whippets and Greyhounds.
• Short-coated breeds. Boxers, Beagles and Pointers with thin hair on the belly and ears.
• Dogs with pink noses. Pink or partly pink noses burn quickly.
• Dogs who sunbathe. Belly-up nappers expose the thin skin of the belly and groin.
• Recently shaved dogs. A fresh summer cut can leave skin unprotected.

Dark-coated, double-coated dogs are at lower risk of sunburn on most of their body, but they can overheat quickly. Watch them closely for heavy panting, drooling and weakness on hot days, especially flat-faced breeds.

Using the UV index to plan walks

The UV index tells you how strong the sun's burning rays are each day. Most weather apps show it, and it's a simple way to decide when sun protection matters most.

• UV 0 to 2 (low). Little risk for most dogs.
• UV 3 to 5 (moderate). Protect pink noses and thin-haired dogs during midday.
• UV 6 to 7 (high). Seek shade from late morning to mid afternoon and use dog-safe sunscreen on at-risk areas.
• UV 8 and up (very high to extreme). Walk early and late, keep outdoor time short and protect at-risk dogs with shade, clothing and sunscreen.

UV can be high even on cool or cloudy days, and reflects off water, sand and snow. Pavement temperatures are a separate concern. Test hot surfaces with the back of your hand for seven seconds before walks. See winter paw care for year-round paw protection tips.

Sun protection after surgery or shaving

Dogs often come home from surgery with a shaved patch of skin, and that area burns very easily. Keep the area out of direct sun until the fur grows back, and ask your vet before applying anything near an incision.

After a summer shave at the groomer, start with short outdoor sessions and plenty of shade. For double-coated breeds, ask your groomer about a trim rather than a full shave, since their coat helps protect against sun and heat. Our guide to choosing a dog groomer explains what to ask.

Dog sunburn myths

A few common beliefs leave dogs unprotected:

• Dogs can't get sunburned. They can, especially on noses, ears, bellies and thin-haired areas.
• Fur is always enough protection. Thin, light or shaved coats offer little protection.
• Human sunscreen is fine. Many contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which are harmful if licked.
• Cloudy days are safe. UV passes through clouds.
• Only summer matters. Snow reflects UV, so high-altitude winter outings count too.

Beach, lake and boat days

Water days are some of the best summer memories, but they also bring the most sun exposure. Water and sand reflect UV, so dogs can burn faster than you'd expect.

• Bring shade. A beach umbrella, pop-up tent or shaded dog bed.
• Reapply sunscreen. After swimming and every couple of hours, using a dog-safe product.
• Use a sun shirt. A light UV-protective dog shirt covers the back and belly.
• Pack fresh water. Saltwater and lake water can upset stomachs. Offer fresh water often.
• Rinse after swimming. Salt, sand and chlorine can irritate skin.
• Use a life jacket on boats. Bright colors also make your dog easy to spot.

Plan beach trips for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower and the sand is cooler on paws.

Summer road trips and the sun

Sun pours through car windows, and a dog who naps by the window can burn on one side of the face or nose. Use window shades on long drives and give your dog a shaded spot in the car.

Never leave a dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Plan rest stops in shaded areas and pack water, a bowl and a cooling mat. Our traveling with your dog guide has a full summer packing list.

How to choose a dog-safe sunscreen

Not every sunscreen labeled for pets is the same. Look for products made specifically for dogs, and read the label before you buy.

• Made for dogs. Formulated to be safe if licked in small amounts.
• No zinc oxide. Zinc can be toxic if swallowed.
• No salicylates. Ingredients like octyl salicylate are related to aspirin and can be harmful to dogs.
• Fragrance free. Less likely to irritate skin or encourage licking.
• Easy to apply. Sticks and balms work well on noses and ear tips. Sprays help on bellies, but avoid spraying near the face.
• Water resistant. Useful for swimmers, though you'll still need to reapply.

Patch test any new product on a small area first and check the skin the next day. If your dog has sensitive skin, allergies or a medical condition, ask your vet to recommend a product.

Summer sun safety checklist

Use this list to keep your dog protected:

• Walk early or late, avoiding midday sun.
• Provide shade in the yard and on outings.
• Use dog-safe sunscreen on noses, ears and bellies.
• Avoid human sunscreens with zinc oxide or salicylates.
• Try UV-protective clothing for at-risk dogs.
• Don't shave double-coated breeds.
• Reapply after swimming.
• Check skin regularly for redness or sores.

• Dogs can get sunburned. Especially on noses, ears and bellies.
• Some dogs are more at risk. Light-colored, short-coated, hairless and shaved dogs.
• Use dog-safe sunscreen only. Avoid human products with zinc oxide or salicylates.
• Shade and timing matter most. Limit midday sun and provide plenty of shade.
• See the vet for severe burns. Blisters, sores or non-healing skin need attention.

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Summer picks

Can dogs get sunburned?

Yes, especially on areas with thin or light fur like the nose, ears and belly.

Which dogs get sunburned most?

White, light-colored, short-coated, hairless and recently shaved dogs.

Can I use human sunscreen on my dog?

It's best not to. Many contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which can be harmful if licked.

What does sunburn look like on a dog?

Red, warm, tender skin that may peel, lose hair or blister.

How do I treat my dog's sunburn?

Keep them out of the sun, apply a cool damp cloth and ask your vet before using any product.

Should I shave my dog in summer?

Vets often advise against shaving double-coated breeds, since the coat protects skin from the sun.

Where should I put sunscreen on my dog?

On the nose, ear tips, belly, groin and other thin-furred areas.

Can dogs get skin cancer from the sun?

Repeated sun damage can increase the risk of certain skin cancers.

Is it safe for my dog to sunbathe?

In moderation, with shade available, and avoiding peak midday hours.

Do dogs need sunglasses?

Most don't, but some dogs with eye conditions may benefit. Ask your vet.