By Claudia Bensimoun

First published: Animal Wellness magazine

Can you protect your dog from skin cancer? This Animal Wellness feature by Claudia Bensimoun on barkuptoday.com reveals how UV exposure and genetics contribute to the risk of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It outlines prevention strategies such as pet-safe sunscreen, shade, and antioxidant-rich diets.

Breeds like Boxers and Dalmatians face higher risks, but holistic measures—omega-3s, regular vet checks—can reduce them. Below are key highlights from the article, offering practical tips for canine skin health. Read the full feature on AnimalWellnessMagazine.com here.

A lot of people think dogs don’t need shielding from the sun’s UV rays. But sunburn and even skin cancer can occur in canines that get too much sunlight. Find out how to protect your pooch.

When Yvonne’s dog developed a strange sore on his nose, she never dreamed it would be skin cancer. “I didn’t think dogs needed protection from the sun, but I soon learned I was wrong,” Yvonne says.

Whenever you take your dog outdoors, he’ll be exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. While most dogs have hair that acts as a natural sunscreen, frequent or prolonged sun exposure will eventually take its toll. Dogs have sensitive skin, and even 30 minutes of sun exposure can cause a burn in some breeds. Sunburn in a dog can appear as red skin or even hair loss.

Dog Skin Cancer Risks

Dogs most at risk are working canines and those exposed to a lot of sun during family activities such as boating and hiking. All hairless breeds and dogs that have been clipped should be kept out of the sun as much as possible. Breeds such as terriers, spaniels, Chihuahuas, Doberman pinschers, and other short-haired dogs, as well as all breeds with white or pink skin, are at high risk for sunburn.

Canine skin cancer

Research shows that dogs are just as prone to getting skin cancer as humans, with mast cell tumors being the most common. Although golden retrievers have an increased risk of mast cell tumors compared to other breeds, any dog can get skin cancer. Again, some breeds are more prone than others, especially those with light skin or pink noses.

“Most dogs have pigmented skin,” says veterinarian Dr. Nancy Scanlan. “White dogs have pink skin, but most of it is protected from the sun by hair. Skin cancer from excess sun exposure most often occurs in two places: the noses of white dogs, or dogs with pink noses or white markings on the muzzle. Short-coated dogs that enjoy sunbathing while lying upside down in the sun can also get skin cancer.”

• Mast cell tumors may be red, itchy, and periodically swell up and then disappear.

• Melanomas occur frequently in dogs. Those found on haired skin are generally benign; melanomas that arise in the mouth, gums, nails, and toes are the ones to look out for.

Selecting a sunscreen

Before you start thinking you’ll have to keep your dog inside more, know that you can protect him from the sun’s harmful rays using sunscreens or specially-designed apparel. The muzzle and ears are the most common places to apply sunscreen. “It is impossible to use sunscreen on the nose itself because dogs will lick it off almost immediately,” advises Dr. Scanlan. “The top of the muzzle and the ears are easier to treat.”

Prevention Strategies

When it comes to sunscreens for dogs, the key is to choose a product that’s safe, non-toxic, and effective. Sunscreens don’t need to contain unhealthy synthetic or chemical sun filters, yet many do. Most dogs will lick the sunscreen after application, so you need something that won’t harm your canine if he ingests it.

• Never use a product that contains PABA, as it can be fatal if licked off.

• Also avoid sunscreens that contain zinc oxide; any ingestion could lead to hemolytic anemia in dogs.

• The Natural Dog Snout Soother (SPF 10) contains shea butter, kukui nut oil, and vitamin E to offer snout sunburn protection and relief.

• Epi-Pet’s Sun Protector sunscreen is formulated especially for dogs and is fragrance-free. It also contains tocopheryl, an antioxidant that promotes healing for burned or damaged skin.

• Natural sunscreens made for children can be used on dogs. Products include Aubrey Organics Green Tea Sunblock for children, with SPF 25, or Jasön Kids Natural Sunscreen with SPF 46.

• Veterinarian Dr. Douglas H. Thamm recommends using UV-blocking sun shirts for dogs. This is a good alternative if you are unable to find a natural sunscreen. “Sunscreen is licked off after application, and toxicity after oral ingestion has not been well studied,” says Dr. Thamm.

Holistic Cancer Care

“Behavior modification, such as keeping dogs out of the sun, is the best preventative, but UV-blocking shirts and suits for dogs are a good alternative as well.” Lightweight sun shirts are great for outdoor activities like swimming and boating, and will keep your dog’s coat cool throughout the day. The PlayaPup UV Protective Rashguard Shirt, for example, is made from UPF 50+ rated fabrics to block 97.5% of harmful UV rays.

You can also take some simple lifestyle steps to help reduce sun exposure and minimize the risk of sunburn or skin cancer. Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when the sun is lower in the sky, and make sure he has access to shade in your backyard, at your cottage, or on your boat. Add in a non-toxic sunscreen for his muzzle and ears, or a UV-repellent jacket, and your dog will be all set for the summer!

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Image Credits: Pixabay