Paws and Sunburn: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Natural sunlight is essential for us humans. It offers plenty of health benefits including triggering vitamin D production, but did you know that dogs also need this vital nutrient? How often do you see your dog laying in the sun?!! Unlike us though, they can't synthesize it from the sun, but they do obtain a wealth of other benefits from some sun exposure.

Sunshine can lift their spirits, soothe aches, and enhance the quality of their sleep. However, too much sun can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancers in our furry friends. So, how do you strike the right balance?

How Dogs Can Develop Sunburn

Any dog breed can get sunburnt if they spend too much time outdoors under the sun's glare. However, dogs with shorter, lighter coats or no fur at all are particularly susceptible to sunburn. As are puppies with fairer, more delicate skin. If your dog has recently undergone a trim, they may also be more susceptible to the adverse effects of the sun.

The areas of dogs most exposed to the sun are also vulnerable. These include the ears, nose, paws and belly. Pavements can absorb sufficient heat from the sun and can burn paws and reflect upwards to burn tummies. This can put shorter-legged dogs like Corgis and Dachshunds at particular risk. We know walking on hot bitumen in Summer is painful, so too it can be for your dog.

Signs of Sunburn in Dogs

Your dog may become over-sensitive to touch and they may show signs of redness and inflammation of the skin. They may also feel tempted to lick or scratch areas affected by sunburn excessively.

In the most severe cases, dogs may become dehydrated with blisters and peeling skin on their bodies. They may develop a “down in the dumps” kind of behaviour and reluctance to go for a walk or play outdoors.

Summer Care For Dogs

Living with hot summers and plenty of sunshine means you'll need to adopt a few common sense rules to allow your dog to enjoy the summer months without developing any sun-related issues. First things first, always have a steady supply of fresh water available. Be sure to provide shade for your dog if they spend time outdoors on their own. Consider cooling mats to lay on, air flow from fans and the luxury of air conditioning if inside.

You should also avoid going for walks when the sun is at its strongest, typically between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm. Ensure you monitor the length of time your dog spends in the summer sun. If it's too long for you, then it's too long for your dog as well.

Special Considerations for Dogs Who Swim

Proper summer care for dogs is essential for the water-loving pooches. Some dogs are born swimmers and they get great pleasure from spending time in the water. Not only does water play bring them joy but it also improves their fitness levels at the same time. However, when swimming in a chlorinated pool or the surf, dogs can quickly develop dry skin and a dry coat. This can become further irritated by the effects of the sun. It's, therefore, particularly important to be mindful of the harmful effects of sun or water exposure and develop a skincare regime for your dog.

This should include thorough rinsing of your dog's coat to ensure all of the salt water and chlorine have been removed. If your pooch is showing signs of dry skin, using one of Plush Puppy's coat hydration products such as Reviva Coat or Seabreeze Oil to rehydrate and nourish the skin and coat.

Introducing Plush Puppy's Summer Survival Kit

• Your choice of shampoos to nourish sun-drenched coats of both swimmers and non-swimmers
• Seabreeze Oil: this coat oil boasts natural plant extracts specially formulated to keep coats hydrated and conditioned after exposure to water or the sun
• Coat Rescue: this intensive conditioning treatment breathes new life into dry or damaged coats
• O.M.G grooming spray: detangles the coat making brushing time more comfortable