Vet reveals whether dogs require sun protection, an answer that might catch you off guard
Dogs, just like their human counterparts, need protection from the harmful effects of the sun. With the summer season fast approaching, it's essential to understand the risks and take the necessary precautions to keep our furry friends safe.
Who Needs Sunscreen?
Thin-furred and hairless dogs, those with light fur, dogs with clipped fur, and dogs with immune-mediated skin problems like Discoid Lupus Erythematous (DLO) are more susceptible to sunburn. These dogs require extra care to prevent skin damage caused by UV radiation.
The Best Sunscreens for Dogs
When it comes to choosing a sunscreen for your dog, there are several options available. Here are some top picks:
- EPI Pet K9 Care Sunscreen: This FDA-approved sunscreen for dogs offers SPF 30–40 and protects against UVA/UVB rays, malignant skin tumors, and inflammation. It sprays easily at any angle, dries without oiliness or stickiness, and contains vitamin E for fur health.
- Warren London Dog Sunscreen: This sunscreen contains aloe vera for coat conditioning and sun protection. It is a leave-in conditioner with sunscreen benefits designed for dogs and puppies.
- My Dog Nose It! Dog Sun Protection Balm: This natural, water-resistant, and paraben-free balm is safe to use on all dogs and created specifically to protect dogs during outdoor activities.
- Petkin SPF 15 Doggy Sun Wipes: These convenient wipes for applying sunscreen have an SPF of 15. However, it's important to avoid sunscreens containing zinc oxide or salicylates as those are toxic to dogs.
Applying Sunscreen on Dogs
Applying sunscreen to your dog should be done about 15 minutes before sun exposure to areas with thin or light fur such as the nose, ear tips, belly, and any exposed skin. If using spray sunscreens like EPI Pet K9 Care, spray evenly and then rub it in to ensure penetration. Remember to reapply every 2 to 3 hours or immediately after swimming, heavy panting, or wiping off.
Additional Protection Tips
In addition to sunscreen, there are other measures you can take to protect your dog from the harmful effects of the sun. Use sun shirts or cooling vests with UPF 45 for extra sun protection, especially for dogs that dislike topical products. Avoid peak sun hours (midday) and seek shade during outdoor activities to reduce UV exposure. Use dog hats or booties to protect ears and paw pads from sun and hot surfaces.
Remember, while sunscreen can provide a layer of protection, it's not a complete solution. Dogs are still at risk of heatstroke and burned paws, so other precautions should be taken. Playing in water can help cool off dogs, but it's important to do it little and often to reduce the risk of water intoxication and to reapply sunscreen afterwards.
For dogs with large clipped areas or who are hairless, a UV-protective thin dog t-shirt can be a good alternative to sunscreen. UV nose guards are available for dogs with DLE, and applying UV fabric to a basket muzzle can help reduce UV damage.
In an urgent situation, a baby sunscreen with SPF of over 15 without zinc oxide can be used on dogs, but it's important to prevent them from licking it off. On mornings that aren't cool, it's okay to skip a walk and replace it with some mental exercise inside to avoid walking in the heat.
Always remember, human sunscreens are not safe for dogs due to potential toxicity, particularly products containing zinc oxide which can cause severe hemolytic anemia when ingested.
Sources: [1][2][3][5]
- Dog breeds with thin fur, hairlessness, light fur, or clipped fur, as well as those with immune-mediated skin problems like Discoid Lupus Erythematous (DLO), require special care to protect their skin from harmful UV radiation.
- The EPI Pet K9 Care Sunscreen, with SPF 30–40 and FDA approval, is an effective choice for protecting dogs against sunburn, malignant skin tumors, and inflammation.
- In addition to applying sunscreen, owners should consider using sun shirts or cooling vests with UPF 45 for dogs that dislike topical products, and especially for dogs with exposed skin.
- For dogs with skin problems like DLO, UV nose guards can be found, and applying UV fabric to a basket muzzle can help minimize UV damage.
