Can Dogs Get Sunburned? How to Protect Your Dog This Summer
- Kimberly Layman
- Jul 16
- 7 min read
The Charleston sun doesn't waste any time letting you know it's summer. Between the humidity and the long, bright afternoons, most local dog parents are already thinking about hot pavement, hydration, and finding shade on walks. But there's one warm-weather risk that often gets overlooked entirely: sunburn.
It might come as a surprise, but dogs can absolutely get sunburned, whether they're out for a walk, lounging in the yard, or spending a day at the beach. Here's what to know, and how to keep your dog comfortable and protected all season.
Can Dogs Get Sunburned?
Yes. Dogs can develop sunburn on exposed or lightly furred skin after spending too much time in direct sunlight.
A dog's coat offers some natural protection, but it isn't a complete shield. UV rays can still reach the skin, especially in areas where fur is thin, and sunburn is more common than a lot of pet parents realize. It isn't something that only affects a handful of dogs at the beach. Any dog can be affected under the right conditions.
Which Dogs Are Most Likely to Get Sunburned?
Some dogs face a higher risk than others, though no dog is completely immune.
Dogs With Thin or Light-Colored Coats
Breeds with short, thin, or light-colored fur tend to have less natural protection. This can include dogs like:
Dalmatians
Pit Bull-type dogs
Boxers
Weimaraners
Greyhounds
This isn't a complete list. Coat color, thickness, and skin pigmentation all play a role, so it's worth paying attention to your own dog's individual coat rather than relying on breed alone.
Dark-Coated Dogs Are Not Immune
It's a common assumption that dark or thick-coated dogs are safe from sunburn, but that isn't the case. Even dogs with dense, dark fur can burn on the nose, ear tips, belly, and other thinly furred or exposed areas. Coat color offers some protection, but it doesn't eliminate the risk.
Hairless Breeds
Dogs with little to no coat have very limited natural sun protection. Their skin is exposed to UV rays much more directly, which makes sun safety especially important for these pups.
Areas Most Likely to Burn
Even dogs with thick, dark coats have spots where fur is naturally thinner. These areas tend to be the most vulnerable to sunburn:
Nose
Ear tips
Eyelids
Belly
Groin
Scars
Recently shaved areas
This is also why dogs can get sunburned on their nose specifically. It's one of the least protected areas on almost any dog, regardless of breed.
Signs Your Dog May Have Sunburn
Sunburn can be trickier to spot on a dog than on a person, especially under fur. Keep an eye out for:
Pink or red skin
Skin that feels warm to the touch
Tenderness or sensitivity when the area is touched
Peeling or dry skin
Scratching or licking at a specific spot
General discomfort in the affected area
If you notice any of these signs, especially if they seem severe, aren't improving, or are paired with your dog acting unwell, it's best to have your veterinarian take a look. Sunburn can sometimes resemble other skin conditions, so a professional evaluation helps rule out anything more serious.
Repeated sunburn over time can also contribute to lasting skin damage, which is one more reason prevention is worth the effort.
PAWS UP! Pro Tip: If your dog enjoys midday adventures, look for signs they're seeking shade or slowing down. Those subtle changes often tell you they're ready for a break before heat or sun exposure becomes a bigger issue.
How to Protect Your Dog From the Sun
The good news is that sunburn is largely preventable with a few simple habits that support overall dog summer safety.
Walk Earlier or Later in the Day
Midday sun in the Lowcountry is intense, so shifting walks to the morning or evening naturally reduces UV exposure during the hours when it's strongest.
Seek Out Shade
Whether you're on a neighborhood walk or at the park, routes with natural shade and a few rest breaks give your dog's skin a chance to cool down and stay protected.
Limit Exposure During Peak Hours
UV rays are typically most intense from mid-morning through mid-afternoon. Shorter outings or shaded routes during this window can make a real difference.
Consider Protective Clothing
Lightweight, UV-protective dog shirts can offer an extra layer of coverage, particularly for dogs with thin coats or light skin.
Talk to Your Veterinarian About Dog-Safe Sunscreen
Never assume human sunscreen is safe for your dog. Some common ingredients simply aren't appropriate for pets. Your veterinarian can help you choose a product that's genuinely safe and suited to your dog's individual skin and needs.
What If Your Dog Gets Sunburned?
If you notice signs of sunburn, the first step is simple: move your dog indoors or into the shade and avoid any further sun exposure to the affected area.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice blistering, significant redness, pain, or a large affected area. These signs warrant professional care rather than at-home treatment. When in doubt, a quick call to your vet is always the safer choice.
Summer Walks Can Still Be Safe and Fun
None of this means summer has to be stressful. With a little planning, dogs throughout the area can still enjoy plenty of walks, adventure, and fresh air all season long.
Early morning walks, shaded routes, regular water breaks, and adjusting the day's routine as temperatures climb all go a long way toward keeping dogs comfortable and protected. And on days when it's simply too hot to be outside for long, Fun Indoor Games to Play with Your Dog When It's Too Hot can help keep your dog engaged and active without any sun exposure at all.
How PAWS UP! Can Help
Summer changes the way we approach every visit. Our walkers pay close attention to each dog's comfort and adjust the visit accordingly, which can include:
Choosing shaded walking routes whenever possible
Adding extra water breaks throughout the walk
Slowing the pace during peak heat
Adjusting activities based on that day's weather
Watching for signs a dog needs a break or a shorter route
If you're looking for dependable midday dog walking that takes your dog's comfort and safety seriously, we'd love to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs get sunburned?
Yes. While a dog's fur offers some natural protection, it doesn't block UV rays completely. Dogs can develop sunburn on exposed or thinly furred skin after too much time in direct sunlight, just like people can.
Can dogs get sunburned on their nose?
Yes, the nose is one of the most common spots for sunburn in dogs. It has very little fur for protection, which leaves the skin more exposed to UV rays than most other areas of the body.
Which dogs are most likely to get sunburned?
Dogs with thin, light-colored, or hairless coats tend to be at higher risk, including breeds like Dalmatians, Boxers, Weimaraners, and Greyhounds. That said, any dog can get sunburned, including dark-coated dogs, particularly in thinly furred areas like the belly, groin, and ear tips.
Can dogs wear sunscreen?
Yes, but only sunscreen that's specifically formulated for dogs. Your veterinarian can recommend a product that's safe for your dog's skin and appropriate for their individual needs.
Is human sunscreen safe for dogs?
No. Human sunscreen can contain ingredients that aren't appropriate for dogs. It's best to check with your veterinarian before using any sunscreen product on your pet.
How do I know if my dog has sunburn?
Look for pink or red skin, warmth, tenderness, peeling, or a dog that seems to be scratching or licking at a specific spot. If symptoms seem significant or aren't improving, it's worth a call to your vet.
What should I do if my dog gets sunburned?
Move your dog out of the sun right away and avoid further exposure to the area. If you notice blistering, significant redness, pain, or a large affected area, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Can dogs get sunburned through their fur?
Fur provides some protection, but it isn't a complete barrier against UV rays. Areas with thinner fur, or dogs with lighter coats, are more susceptible to sunburn even with fur present.
Ready to Help Your Dog Stay Happy This Summer?
Summer walks don't have to be stressful. With thoughtful planning, plenty of water, and a little flexibility, your dog can safely enjoy time outdoors even during the hottest months.
If your workday keeps you away from home, our enrichment-focused Midday Dog Walks give your dog a safe, enjoyable break while you're at work. We adjust every visit based on the weather and your dog's individual needs, so you can have peace of mind knowing they're in caring, experienced hands.
Ready to learn more? Schedule a Quick Consultation Call today to see if PAWS UP! is the right fit for you and your dog.
About the Author
Founder of PAWS UP! | Serving Charleston Area Pet Parents Since 2016
Kimberly is the founder of PAWS UP!, an award-winning dog walking and cat care company serving North Charleston, Hanahan, Goose Creek, Ladson, Park Circle, and select areas of Summerville since 2016. Kimberly and her team specialize in Midday Dog Walks, Adventure Walks, Cat Care, and personalized in-home pet care designed to keep pets happy, healthy, and enriched in the comfort of home.
Passionate about animal well-being, safety, and relationship-based care, Kimberly also supports local shelter dogs through PAWS UP!’s Sponsored Shelter Breakouts program. PAWS UP! has been recognized as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite for five consecutive years, a CommunityVotes North Charleston Award Winner, a Charleston’s Choice Finalist, and a Best of South Carolina Honorable Mention Award Winner.
We'd love to hear from you!
Has your dog ever gotten a sunburn, or do you take extra precautions during the summer? Let us know what works for you in the comments below or tag us on socials @PawsUpCHS.
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