Can Dogs Get Sunburn? How Grooming Products Can Help

Yes, Dogs Can Get Sunburn—Here’s How to Protect Them Naturally

When we think of sunburn, we often think of humans—but dogs are vulnerable too, especially those with light-colored fur, thin coats, or exposed areas like noses, bellies, and ears. Long walks, hikes, or beach days can leave your doggo’s skin dry, red, and irritated from overexposure to the sun.

Thankfully, proper grooming products—especially those enriched with prebiotics and natural butters—can play a major role in dog sunburn prevention and skin recovery.

Signs Your Dog May Have Sunburn

Watch for these signs after sun exposure:

• Red or pink skin, especially on the nose, ears, or belly

• Dry, flaky patches

• Whining or discomfort when touched

• Licking or scratching sun-exposed areas

If your dog is showing these symptoms, it’s time to rethink their summer grooming routine.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

While any dog can be affected by the sun, certain breeds are more prone to burns:

• Short-haired or hairless breeds (e.g., Dalmatians, Boxers, Chinese Cresteds)

• Dogs with white or light-colored fur

• Dogs that spend extended time outdoors

Grooming Products That Help With Sunburn Prevention

While dog-safe sunscreen is useful, daily grooming products infused with protective and healing ingredients offer long-term benefits—especially when they support your dog’s skin microbiome.

🧴 1. Use a Prebiotic Dog Shampoo

Sun exposure can dry out your dog’s skin and disrupt its natural bacterial balance. A prebiotic-rich shampoo:

• Gently cleanses without stripping oils

• Supports healthy skin flora

• Helps prevent post-sun irritation and peeling

Avoid harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances, which can worsen sun sensitivity.

🧴 2. Apply Conditioner for a Protective Barrier

A probiotic leave-in dog conditioner helps form a light, breathable layer over the skin and fur. This conditioning step:

• Locks in moisture

• Prevents drying and cracking

• Enhances coat shine to reflect sunlight more effectively

🐾 3. Don’t Skip the Paw Butter

Hot pavements and sand can scorch sensitive paw pads. A high-quality paw butter for sun protection:

• Nourishes with natural oils like coconut, shea, or jojoba

• Creates a protective shield before sun exposure

• Soothes inflamed paws afterward

Paw butter isn’t just for winter—it’s a summer essential.

Bonus Summer Grooming Tips

• Groom regularly to remove dead fur and help airflow

• Trim—not shave—coats to avoid exposing skin directly to UV rays

• Bathe less frequently to avoid over-drying the skin in summer

• Keep your dog hydrated, inside and out

Why the Skin Microbiome Matters

Excessive sun exposure weakens your dog’s skin barrier, making it more prone to dryness, infection, and discomfort. Products with prebiotics and probiotics work to:

• Restore microbial balance

• Reduce inflammation naturally

• Strengthen your dog’s skin defense system

Final Thoughts: Groom Smart for Sun Protection

Your dog doesn’t have to suffer from summer skin woes. With a proactive grooming routine built around microbiome-friendly, nourishing, and protective products, you can keep your doggo’s skin healthy, hydrated, and sun-safe.