Do you worry about how your dog will cope in the sweltering heat during summer?

As pet owners, it’s normal to be concerned about your furry family members wellbeing when there is a heat wave or a heat-health alert has been issued in the UK.

With this in mind, you might be wondering what you can do to help them cope better – from cool mats to keeping treats ice cold in the freezer, there are many options.

But what about putting sunscreen on them to avoid sunburn? Let’s find out if they need it, according to the pet experts.

Pet food company Scrumbles explained: “Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not immune to sunburns and other sun-related issues.

“Their fur, while offering some protection, isn't enough to shield them completely from harmful UV rays.

“Just like us, dogs can suffer from painful sunburns, particularly in areas with less hair coverage such as the nose, ears, belly, and groin.”

Some breeds are more vulnerable than others including those that are light-skinned, short-haired, and hairless.

Scrumbles adds: “Sunburn in dogs is not merely a temporary discomfort; it can lead to more severe consequences.

How often should you walk your dog in the summer?

“Repeated sunburns can cause skin damage, increase the risk of skin cancer, and contribute to premature aging in our canine companions.”

Can I use human sunscreen on my dog?

So to put it simply, if you’re wondering if dogs need sunscreen, the answer is yes.

Scrumbles continues: “Dogs can benefit from sunscreen, especially when they are going to spend extended periods outdoors.

“But not all sunscreens are safe for them.

“It's crucial to use a sunscreen that is specifically designed for dogs and free of harmful ingredients.”

@attn No one likes a sunburn #petsoftiktok #dogsoftiktok #tiktoktaughtme #tiktokpartner ♬ original sound - attn:

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How to apply sunscreen to your dog in summer

Before applying sunscreen to your dog, conduct a patch test to check for any adverse reactions, advises Scrumbles.

If there is no reaction, you should follow these steps:

  • Gently hold your dog still and apply sunscreen to exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly.
  • Rub the sunscreen in thoroughly, ensuring even coverage.
  • Prevent your dog from licking the sunscreen off by distracting them with a treat or engaging them in play.
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 4 hours, or more frequently if your dog goes swimming or gets wet.

Visit the Scrumbles website to find out what sunscreen is suitable for your dog.