Do dogs get sunburnt?

We're used to slathering ourselves in sunscreen on hot, sunny days, but it turns out our four-legged companions are just as vulnerable to the sun's harmful effects. Dogs can suffer from sunburn just like we do, so it's important we're armed with the knowledge to better protect them.

- Freya Parr

While we may not think to coat our pets in thick layers of SPF50, you might be surprised to learn that dogs can get sunburnt on sunny days. And just like with humans, exposure to UV radiation from the sun can lead to skin cancer in dogs.

Dogs are particularly vulnerable to sunburn if they have light-coloured fur or skin, or a thin, short or patchy coat. Breeds worth keeping an eye on in the sun include bull terriers, Dalmatians, Weimaraners, Chinese cresteds, greyhounds and boxers.

Just like humans, sunburn is easy to spot on your pet. Redness, crusting, flaking, itching, blisters and discomfort are the symptoms consistent across species.