Protect Your Beloved Pup From Sun Damage With the Best Dog Sunscreens
Walking your dog is a way for them to exercise. However, long walks in the summer months mean an increased risk of sun damage. Yes, your dog is also at risk of sunburns, blistering, and crustiness. In fact, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to canine skin cancer.
Just as you use sunscreen to protect yourself from sun damage, a good dog sunscreen protects your beloved pup from harmful sun rays. These products come in various forms to suit the needs and application of different dog breeds and their owners. You can choose between wipes, sprays, balms, or sticks to keep your Fido moisturized and safe. However, choosing a product that suits you and your dog is not easy.
This buying guide lists the best dog sunscreens in 2024. We also describe the different types of dog sunscreens and some essential features to be mindful of to help you find the one that suits your needs.
Dog Sunscreens Buying Guide
Here is a detailed buying guide to help you find a suitable dog sunscreen.
How To Choose a Good Dog Sunscreen
A simple search for dog sunscreen yields hundreds of results. However, buying just about any product is not a wise decision. You should check out a few things to make sure it works both for you and your Fido. Here are some considerations to look out for:
Ingredients
It is completely natural for your dog to try and lick off its sunscreen. That’s why it is important to choose a product made using natural and safe ingredients.
There is a reason why veterinarians advise against using human sunscreen on dogs. They contain many ingredients that can be toxic for dogs.
Always check the ingredients list of different products and ensure that it is safe for your dog even when it consumes it. Look for organic or plant-based formulas, aa they are usually safe for application on pets.
Sun-blocking ability
Since it is a sunscreen, the product you decide to purchase should have the appropriate sun-blocking ability.
Look for ingredients like carrot seed essential oil or raspberry essential oil, as they can absorb the sun’s UV radiation before they can reach the skin. Natural oils and butter like coconut oil and shea butter are good at preventing sun damage.
Dog sunscreens, like human ones, also have an SPF value that will help you determine their sun-blocking potential.
Waterproofing
Unlike cats, dogs do love getting in water. If your pup feels the same way, you will have a hard time keeping its sunscreen on unless you find a product with a waterproof formula.
Waterproof sunscreen means your dog enjoys extra protection even while swimming or paddling. But be sure to reapply after it has dried off.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The UV rays from the sun are not only carcinogenic, but they also cause the skin to dry out. Prolonged exposure can lead to blistering, sunburn, and crustiness around sensitive areas like the nose.
Using a dog sunscreen with moisturizing and healing properties can help protect your dog’s skin from these outcomes. Sunscreens with anti-inflammatory properties soothe and heal inflamed skin. They also provide moisturization to prevent the skin from drying out.
Tips for Applying Dog Sunscreen the Right Way
Not everyone is a pro at pet care. Here are some tips for applying a dog sunscreen the right way:
- Although all the products we recommend above are dog-safe, it is still a good idea to test your dog’s sunscreen on one spot to make sure it does not trigger an allergic reaction. Once you are sure, you can apply it over other body parts .
- Start by applying on areas most exposed to the sun. These include ear tips, the bridge of the nose, inner thighs, groin, and the area around its lips.
- When applying on the face, do not get any in its eyes. It may cause burning and redness.
- Once you have completely applied the sunscreen, ensure your Fido does not lick it off. Restrain him from doing so for about ten to fifteen minutes until completely absorbed.
- Be sure to apply it for at least twenty minutes before letting it out. Reapply after every five or six hours and also after it goes swimming.
What Are Some Popular Types of Dog Sunscreen?
Depending upon its application, there are several different forms of dog sunscreen. Although the basic function remains the same, each type has unique features that buyers may or may not find useful. Have a look!
Sprays
Sprays are the most convenient type of dog sunscreen because of their ease of application. They are liquids that come in a container with a spray nozzle. You can use one to cover large areas like the belly or the entire body of hairless and short-haired breeds.
These dog sunscreens are non-greasy and easy to spread. They are absorbed easily and remain waterproof unless your pooch decides to take a dip in the pool, after which it is sensible to reapply.
Sticks
Sticks are a compact form of dog sunscreen that you can easily carry in your pocket. They are suitable for smaller areas like the nose, around the mouth, and ear tips.
They are mess-free and usually very easy to apply. Some also contain moisturizing agents that prevent your pup’s skin from drying out.
Wipes
If you don’t want to be bothered with sprays and sticks, you can look into getting dog-safe sunscreen wipes. Like regular sanitary wipes, these sunscreen wipes also come in a resealable packing and offer mess-free application. Just take one out and rub it on the areas of your dog’s body that are more prone to sunburn.
They are great for keeping areas like the muzzle and ears protected from sun damage.
Balms
Balms are thicker than both sprays and sticks. They stick to the part of the body, hence are great to use on the nose.
They come as small tubs of product that you can carry around with you. Most of these contain a natural emollient that helps skin retain moisture and keeps it protected from UV rays.
Conclusion
If your pup likes spending time outdoors, lathering it in sunscreen is a must. A good dog-safe sunscreen not only prevents painful sunburns but also keeps your pup safe from the other harmful effects of sunlight. However, the sheer variety usually confuses the dog owners. We reviewed the top dog sunscreens in 2021 to help narrow down your choice. Check them out and choose the most suitable one for your dog.
Five Top Dog Sunscreens in 2024
Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets
– Best Overall
The Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets is a spray-type dog sunscreen. It features an oil-free and non-greasy formula that spreads easily. The aerosol spray comprises a unique bag on the valve spray nozzle that sprays the product from all directions.
This pet sunscreen complies with the FDA ingredients testing standards. Even if your pup licks it, it won’t cause harmful side effects. It is oil-free and non-greasy, hence applies easily and absorbs quickly. Plus, it is water and sweatproof; hence won’t come off easily.
- Compliant with FDA standards
- Provides protection equivalent to SPF 30 – 40
- Very easy to apply
- A bit expensive
- 3.5 oz is suitable for few applications
My Dog Nose It Sun Protection Balm
– Runner Up
If your dog has a sensitive nose, paws, or ears, My Dog Nose It sun-protecting balm prevents it from sun damage. It features a non-toxic and completely natural formulation that is safe for your dog even when ingested. The balm is creamy with a paraben-free formula that spreads easily and evenly.
It contains the goodness of Carnauba Wax, corn starch, emollient ester, castor oil, and other organic ingredients to protect and rehydrate dry skin. You can apply it to sensitive regions like the nose and ears. It has healing properties that soothe inflamed skin and restore lost moisture.
- Made with all-natural ingredients
- Seals in moisture by creating a barrier
- Soothes and heals inflamed skin
- No SPF equivalent rating
Warren London Dog Sunscreen Spray
– Honorable Mention
The Warren London offers an all-natural aloe vera formulation that heals and protects your pup’s skin. The product comes in an easy spray bottle, which is convenient to apply. The consistency is thin and non-greasy; hence you can apply it evenly without ruining the dog coat.
This dog sunscreen boasts dual functionality. It works as a sunblock protecting your Fido or Fifi from harmful sun rays, as well as heal and soothes inflamed skin. The aloe vera in its ingredients heals and moisturizes its skin for a soothing effect. Plus, it absorbs quickly, so there are no extended waiting periods involved in its application.
- Prevents dryness and cracks
- Application is a breeze
- Lick-safe and non-oily
- Strong scent can irritate your pup
STAY. FIT. FOREVER. SAFETY FIRST PET PRODUCTS Organic Sunscreen & Moisturizer is a creamy balm that protects, soothes, and moisturizes. It features a multi-oil formulation in a beeswax base that makes it easy to apply.
Para 2. All the ingredients used in its making are 100%natural, organic, non-toxic, and canine-safe. The oils in it have a high SPF rating ranging from 2 to 50 SPF. It provides necessary moisturization while creating a barrier that prevents dryness. Furthermore, it comes with a 100% money-back guarantee so you can have your money refunded if you are not satisfied.
- Made with organic and natural ingredients
- Soothing and moisturizing
- With a multi-oil formulation
- Product quantity is very little
- Melts if exposed to the sun
The Bodhi Dog Sun Protector Spray is a non-aerosol spray-on dog sunscreen. It comes in eco-friendly, recyclable packaging. The formulation is relatively thin and easy to spray on exposed areas like the muzzle, ears, and belly region. It is made using natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba butter. Although the product absorbs quickly and is water-resistant, you should still reapply after a few hours for maximum protection.
The sunscreen is non-oily and alcohol-free. The non-greasy formula goes on furry areas, too, without leaving behind a sticky residue or matting the pup’s hair. It protects and moisturizes its skin without staining the coat. It offers protection equivalent to SPF 30, which keeps the harsh UV rays from damaging your dog’s skin. It works for all breeds, whether they have long hair or short.
- Specially formulated with shea butter and jojoba
- Non-aerosol spray applies easily
- Both the sunscreen packaging are eco-friendly
- Bottle can leak if mishandled
People Also Asked
A: It is not a good idea to apply your sunscreen on your dog because the SPF protection and zinc oxide commonly used in human sunscreens can be toxic for your dog.
A: Dog skin is just as sensitive as any human’s, so it is also prone to sun damage. Using dog sunscreen protects your pooch from sunburn and skin cancer development.
A: If your dog happens to swallow sunscreen, the most likely response is vomiting and diarrhea because its chemical composition is indigestible for your furry friend. But if the quantity he consumed is large, you should have him looked at because the salicylates in their composition can cause stomach ulcers or liver damage.