22-07-2025
List of dog breeds most likely to get sunburn including French Bulldog and Boxer
While we Scots know fine well to protect our skin during summer, our pets are also at risk of burning.
Scots have seen a series of intense heatwaves already this year, with widespread scorching temperatures recorded all over the country.
But while we peely-wally Scots know to lather ourselves in sun cream, many of us don't realise that our dogs are also at risk of burning. But not all dog breeds are the same, and some are more susceptible to burning in the sun than others.
Luckily, Dr Charlotte Rice, in-house vet at pet supplement brand YuMOVE, has shared advice on which breeds are most at risk and how to identify sunburn in your pooch.
The expert said: 'Dogs with lighter coloured or white coats are generally more at risk than dogs with darker fur. Similarly, dogs with thinner fur or hairless breeds can be at higher risk."
Here's everything the expert shared about doggy sunburn and how to prevent it.
Which dog breeds are most at risk to sunburn?
The expert named several dog breeds that are most at risk of sunburn, due to the fact that they are either hairless or have very thin coats.
These included:
Chinese Crested Dog
Mexican Hairless Dog
Boxer
Weimaraner
Greyhound
Dalmatian
French Bulldog
Bull Terrier
These pooches are at a higher risk of burning than their furrier counterparts.
How to tell your dog is sunburned
Dr Charlotte continued: 'If your dog does have too much fun in the sun, often the first areas to show the effects will be their noses and the tips of their ears, alongside the belly and the tip of the tail (depending on how they've been lying).
'The key signs of sunburn you need to look out for are reddened or sore skin that might be uncomfortable to your dog when you touch the area. Sunburn can go hand in hand with signs of heatstroke, so it is sensible to be vigilant about both on sunny, warm days.'
What to do if your dog is sunburned
If your dog is severely sunburned, it's best to see a vet as soon as possible.
The expert adds: 'If you're concerned your pet may have some sunburn, start by getting them into the shade with some water, and we recommend seeing your vet. They'll help assess the damage, support with any aftercare, and suggest ways to help prevent it in future.'
How to protect your dog from the sun
Dr Charlotte warns against using human sunscreen on your dog, as many common ingredients in sunscreen are toxic for them, particularly zinc oxide.
Opt for a dog-friendly version instead, such as this SPF 50 balm on Amazon for £6.95, or this two-in-one insect repellent and SPF 15 balm from Pets at Home for a tenner.
But Dr Charlotte warns that keeping your dog out of the sun is the best idea to prevent sunburn.
She says: 'It's wise to keep your dog out of the sun during the heat of the day – typically between 11am and 3pm – although this time-frame can be much wider on hot days.
"If you're outside with your dog, aim to provide some shade, such as a sun umbrella. Opt for walks in shady locations, and use pet-friendly sunscreen on those at-risk areas.'
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