Your dog has found the sunniest patch in the garden and rolled onto their back, paws in the air. They look perfectly content — but that exposed belly is one of the places most likely to burn.

Dogs can get sunburn, just as we can. Their coat offers some protection, but areas with little or no fur are still vulnerable. Some dogs need more protection than others, particularly in strong summer sun.

The places to watch are the nose, ear tips and belly — anywhere the coat is pale, thin or missing.

Where do dogs get sunburn?

A dog's coat does not cover them evenly. The nose, ear tips, eyelids, lips and belly often have less hair, leaving the skin underneath exposed. Pale or pink skin contains less protective pigment and is especially sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light.

A dog that enjoys lying belly-up in the garden can therefore expose one of their least protected areas to the sun for quite a while.

Which dogs are most at risk?

Any dog can burn, but the risk is higher for:

• Dogs with white or pale coats and skin, including white Bull Terriers, Boxers and Bulldogs.
• Dogs with naturally thin or short coats, such as Whippets, Greyhounds, Staffies and Vizslas.
• Hairless breeds, including the Chinese Crested and Xoloitzcuintli.
• Dogs with pink noses, pale eyelids or white patches, whatever their breed.
• Dogs with bald or thinning areas caused by a skin condition, allergy, surgery or medical treatment.
• Dogs whose coats have been clipped very short, leaving previously covered skin exposed.

Before having your dog clipped for summer, ask a vet or experienced groomer what is suitable for their coat type. Some coats should not be clipped, and taking the hair too short can expose the skin to UV.

What does sunburn look like on a dog?

Look for skin that is red, warm, sore or itchy. Your dog may flinch when the area is touched or repeatedly lick or scratch it. More serious burns can blister, peel, crust or weep.

Signs may not be obvious straight away, so check exposed skin after your dog has spent time in strong sunlight. Sore, crusty or scaly skin also deserves veterinary attention: it can have causes other than sunburn and may need treatment.

Why sun protection matters

Sunburn is painful. Over time, UV exposure can also damage the skin and increase the risk of some skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma. Protection matters even if your dog has never visibly burnt.

Can you use human sun cream on dogs?

It is safest not to. Some human sunscreens contain ingredients that can harm pets if swallowed, including zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Dogs are likely to lick cream from their skin, so use a product labelled for dogs and follow its directions.

One label trap to avoid: “child-safe” does not necessarily mean dog-safe. Look for a sunscreen specifically labelled for pets.

Choose a pet-safe, waterproof product with SPF 30 or higher. Apply a small amount to a patch of skin first and check for irritation. Pay particular attention to pale, exposed areas such as the ear tips and belly, taking care around the eyes and mouth. Reapply as the label advises, especially after swimming. If you are unsure which product to use, ask your vet.

How to protect your dog from the sun

Sun cream helps, but shade and sensible timing are your first line of defence.

• Keep your dog out of strong, direct sun during the middle of the day. UK animal charities commonly advise extra care between about 11am and 3pm, although UV levels and temperature vary.
• Provide reliable shade and fresh drinking water. Check the shady patch has not moved as the sun travels across the garden.
• Avoid walks in hot weather. Check the forecast and local UV index, then go out early or later in the day when conditions are safer.
• Consider a lightweight UV-protective garment for a very pale or hairless dog, provided it fits well and does not make them hot.
• Encourage a determined sunbather to move into the shade before their skin — or body temperature — becomes a problem.

What to do if your dog is sunburnt

Move your dog out of the sun. For a small, mildly sore area, gently hold a cool, damp cloth against the skin. Do not put ice or a frozen pack directly on it.

Avoid human aftersun, creams and painkillers unless your vet specifically tells you to use them. Products that are harmless to people may irritate a dog's skin or be unsafe when licked.

Call your vet if the skin is blistered, broken, crusty or weeping, if a large area is affected, or if your dog seems painful or unwell. If you are not sure how serious it is, ring your practice for advice.

In short

Dogs can get sunburn, particularly on pale or sparsely haired skin. Give them shade and water, avoid strong midday sun, and protect exposed areas with a dog-safe sunscreen. A little preparation lets them enjoy a sunny day without paying for it later.

This article offers general information and is not a substitute for advice from your vet.