Can Dogs Get Sunburned?

Dogs enjoy many of the same things that you and I would enjoy, including laying out in the sun. Unfortunately for some dogs, this can mean sunburn. It's true―your canine companion can get a sunburn. If you own a dog, it is important that you know your dog's risk as well as what the signs are of a sunburn, so that you can get him the attention he needs if a sunburn occurs.

Which Dogs Are Affected By Sunburns?

When it comes to humans, the paler your skin is, the higher your chance of getting a sunburn. The same idea applies to dogs: the lighter the fur, the higher the chance of sunburn. Therefore, dogs with white fur are more likely to develop sunburn.

However, this doesn't mean that if your dog is black, you don't need to worry about sunburns. Dogs with shorter fur or fur that is clipped short for the summer are also prone to developing a sunburn. Furthermore, dogs who are suffering from hair loss or are hairless, no matter what color they are, are also more prone to developing a sunburn.

The most common areas for sunburn to occur on a dog are the ears, the nose, the abdomen, groin area and on the insides of the legs.

What Does a Sunburn Look Like on a Dog?

In dogs, sunburn is relatively easy to recognize; especially if the dog has recently spent time in the sun. Mild burns, which are usually referred to as a superficial partial thickness burn, are similar to first degree burns and only involve the top layer of the dog's skin.

Deeper burns (deep partial thickness burns) occur when the sunburn has penetrated further into the layers of skin. This burn is similar to a second degree burn. However, unlike humans, dogs do not develop the typical blisters associated with this severity of burn.

Full thickness burns, similar to a third degree burn, are the most severe and include all the layers of skin and in some cases, some of the tissues below the dog's skin. It may appear to be white in color or similar in appearance to leather.

Each of these different severity's of burns can also be accompanied by hair loss and redness.

How to Treat Sunburn in Dogs

Treatment for a dog's sunburn varies based on the severity of the burn. All burns should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian.

For superficial burns, the veterinarian will clean the area before applying a topical cream. After the first visit, the owner will be able to apply the topical cream at home.

Deeper burns require more extensive treatment. The dog will likely require hospitalization where he will receive IV fluids for hydration and electrolytes. His sunburn will require daily attention: daily cleanings of the area, followed by application of the topical cream and fresh bandages.

As expected, repeated sunburns on a dog can lead to more serious issues including skin cancers. Therefore, owners should take precaution and apply sunscreen to your dog as needed. Look for sunscreens that are non-toxic and pet-friendly with a minimum of 15 SPF or higher. You can find pet-friendly sunscreens at your local pet supply store or online.

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Additional Information:

University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: Protect Your Pets from Sunburn

Pet Place: Sunburn in Dogs

Pet Education: Dogs & Cats Can Get Sunburn