Best Dog Sunscreen Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide
If you’re looking for the best dog sunscreen to protect your pet during the hot summer days and you have little time on your hands to prospect the market, you have come to the right place. After a thorough analysis, we have concluded that the product that offers excellent quality and value is the Happy Pet Hot Dog! Sun Protection Spray for Dogs. This option is veterinarian recommended and it features the use of only natural ingredients so that you can be certain it won’t affect the sensitive skin and coat of your dog. It compares to an SPF 15 rated sunscreen for people which means that it will provide excellent protection. The formula used is also free of dangerous chemicals such as parabens and sulfates. In the event that our first choice is unavailable, we recommend that you take the time to consider the Warren London Premium Dog Sunscreen.
Comparison table
The sun spray offers excellent protection and it has a quick and convenient design so that you can apply sunscreen on your dog in just a matter of seconds. The formula compares to an SPF 15 rated sunscreen for people which means that it can block 93% of UVB rays. It’s best to apply the spray outside since the formula is a bit greasy and can stain your floor, furniture and clothes. If you’re looking for an affordable dog sunscreen that is efficient and can keep your pet protected from the sun all without using dangerous and yucky chemicals, then you’ll certainly be happy with what this product has to offer. Thanks to its innovative formula, you can use this sunscreen year-round to protect your pet against the harsh UVB rays that can damage its skin. It also has a moisturizing effect since it includes natural Aloe vera that protects the skin from getting scaly or dry. It is not the best choice when taking your dog at the beach since the formula comes off easily in the water. With this option, you get skin care and protection in a single bottle that is convenient to use and portable. You can take it with you everywhere you go. What’s more, it is non-greasy and non-oily and that allows for a mess-free experience. This dog friendly sunscreen is equivalent to an SPF 30 rated sunscreen for people and it can block 97% of UVB rays. It works even through the coat of the pet which makes it very easy to apply. The bottle also has a bag-on-valve so that you can spray it at all angles. You need to rub the sunscreen into the fur for it to reach the skin and this can be unpleasant since the spray is very oily. This is an FDA compliant pet sunscreen that will keep your dog safe and happy for those long days at the park, by the pool or on the beach since it uses a waterproof formula. It is safe for all breeds of dogs and it also works on horses.
Our Top Choice 
2nd Best
Also To Consider
7 Best Dog Sunscreens (Updated Reviews) in 2023
We know just how difficult finding the right dog sunscreen can be, which is why we have selected some of the most popular and critically acclaimed products and showcased them below. Feel free to pick the one that manages to satisfy your requirements.
- 1. Happy Pet Hot Dog! Sun Protection Spray for Dogs
- 2. Warren London Premium Dog Sunscreen
- 3. Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets
- 4. Natural Dog Company Snout Soother
- 5. My Dog Nose It Moisturizing Sun Protection Balm
- 6. Petkin Doggy Sunwipes 20 count
- 7. PETfection 100% Natural & Organic Dog Sunscreen Spray
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Happy Pet Hot Dog! Sun Protection Spray for Dogs
With this natural dog sunscreen, you won’t have to worry about any side effects since the formula uses a combination of natural ingredients without any of the yucky chemicals that could affect the skin and coat of your furry family member. It compares to an SPF 15 rated sunscreen for people which makes it suitable for all-year use.
It comes in a uniquely designed bottle that is very convenient to use so that you won’t have to waste minutes trying to apply the sunscreen evenly across your dog’s coat. The sprayer nozzle also has a dial under the trigger so that you can lock the mechanism so you don’t risk the liquid leaking when storing the bottle in your purse.
The product is veterinarian recommended so that you can be certain that you’re buying a quality product that has been tested thoroughly. Furthermore, this brand is known for its eco-friendly manufacturing process and you can rest assured knowing that the sunscreen has not been tested on animals.
For the product to protect your dog properly you should apply the sunscreen about 15 minutes before the pet gets exposed to the sun and then re-apply every 2 hours during long outdoor walks.
This option provides a quick and convenient way to apply sunscreen on your dog when you need to take it out for some fun in the sun.
It is a cheap dog sunscreen and that helps even pet parents who are on a budget to get a quality sunscreen for their four-legged companion.
The formula uses only natural ingredients and the manufacturer stays away from dangerous chemicals such as parabens and sulfates.
The sunscreen is fragrance-free and non-irritating and it is ideal for pets who have sensitive skin and need delicate protection.
It has a greasy texture which means that it’s best to use it outside since if you use it indoors, you can easily stain your tile or wood flooring, furniture and your clothes.
It can take a while to get your dog used to this sunscreen, especially if it has long hair.
2. Warren London Premium Dog Sunscreen
What makes this option stand out is the fact that you get two products for the price of one, namely a dog safe sunscreen to protect your pet from harsh UVB rays and a moisturizer to prevent the skin from drying out or getting scaly from the sun. The moisturizing effect is achieved by the Aloe vera used in the formula.
This option can be used year-round to protect your dog’s vulnerable areas such as the nose and ears, or for breeds that have thin coats and skin that is more susceptible to sun damage. It is very easy to apply even directly on the coat since the spray nozzle will make sure that no spot is left unprotected and once applied, it will dry in seconds.
It has a non-oily texture which makes it more pleasant for the owner to apply and the pet won’t feel uncomfortable. The formula is also lick-safe since all the ingredients are natural and non-toxic.
As if that wasn’t enough, this choice is safe to keep on your dog and not wash off daily. This way you can save a lot of time especially if your dog doesn’t like bathing each day. It is safe for dogs of all ages and it will stay fresh up to 1 year after the bottle is opened.
It is a high-quality option that will protect the vulnerable areas that are not covered by coat and for dog breeds that have light-colored or thin coats.
This unique formula includes natural ingredients such as Aloe vera to keep your dog’s skin moisturized so that it won’t get scaly or dry out from the sun.
It is very easy to use since all you need to do is apply a light and even layer of spray on your pet’s coat to get hours of protection and hydration.
It is non-oily and once dry it becomes lick-safe so that you can let your pet have fun without babysitting it since the formula dries out in seconds.
While it can handle a bit of water, the formula is not completely waterproof and that means that it can wash off during long exposures.
During long walks, you will need to re-apply it every 1-2 hours.
3. Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for Pets
The Epi-Pet sunscreen is a versatile product that can keep your dog happy and protected for those long and enjoyable days by the pool, at the beach, and at the park. It offers advanced protection so that you can rest assured knowing that the sun won’t harm your dear four-legged pal. As a plus, it can also be used on horses.
The spray nozzle allows pet parents to spray the sunscreen at any angle including upside down so that they can reach every inch of their dog’s coat. It is water- and sweat-resistant so that active dogs can explore every spot without losing the protection they so desperately need when exposed to the sun.
The manufacturer recommends to re-apply the product every 2-4 hours if the pet is on land and every 80 minutes if it is in water. You won’t have to worry about side-effects since this option uses only FDA compliant ingredients and it works on all breeds of dogs and horses.
To apply the formula around your pet’s more sensitive areas such as around the eyes, nose, ears, and muzzle, it is suggested that you spray the product directly on your hands and rub it on its skin so that you don’t risk making your pet uncomfortable.
The bottle is designed with a bag-on-valve that can provide constant spraying from all angles and it lets you conveniently cover the entire body of your pet including the chest, inside the legs, and abdomen.
It is non-greasy so that it can keep your pet protected without making it feel uncomfortable and once applied it will feel fresh on the skin and your dog will be ready to go out and have fun in the sun.
The sunscreen is safe to use on dogs of all breeds and ages and it is also formulated to protect horses.
It is water- and sweat-resistant and that makes it perfect for active dogs that like to spend hours on end running and playing outside.
It is quite expensive and it doesn’t last you very long since with moderate usage the bottle only lasts for about a month.
It has a smell that some dogs don’t like and that makes it difficult to apply the sunscreen.
4. Natural Dog Company Snout Soother
If you’re looking for a quality sunscreen for dog nose, this all-natural and organic remedy is very efficient and has been recommended by thousands of veterinarians around the world. It doesn’t have any fragrance which helps to ensure the comfort of your pet since the nose of your dog is extremely sensitive to strong smells.
As stated above, this is a natural alternative that uses a blend of organic ingredients such as jojoba oil, hemp seed oil, grape seed oil and natural Vitamin E that together will protect your dog’s nose against the harsh solar radiation.
What’s more, this soothing balm can also be applied to your pet’s nose to treat dryness and painful cracking of the skin as well as other common ailments such as discoid lupus and hyperkeratosis. This way you can get a comprehensive remedy that can keep the nose of your four-legged companion protected all-year-round.
Since it uses only natural ingredients, the balm can also be used for humans with dry skin and chapped lips as long as you don’t use the same stick that you use on your dog. If you are still not convinced, this product has been featured in more than 30 magazines and has garnered positive feedback from thousands of customers.
The manufacturer uses a holistic approach to understand what each dog needs which is why each ingredient is selected carefully to guarantee the safety of your beloved companion.
This remedy won’t just protect the nose against UV rays but it will also treat dryness and cracking and several other common nose skin ailments.
The sunscreen is safe to use for dogs of all breeds and sizes and you won’t have to worry about side effects.
It is a product that has garnered positive feedback from thousands of happy customers which guarantees that you’ll get a product that works as advertised.
Dogs like to lick their nose after the sunscreen is applied which makes it wear off quicker and you’ll need to keep them occupied with other treats until it has dried.
The tube is only 1/3 full and it is very small which means that you pay quite a lot for very little product.
5. My Dog Nose It Moisturizing Sun Protection Balm
This is another pet-safe protection balm for the nose of your dog and it features only natural ingredients that are proven to be effective and gentle enough not to damage the sensitive skin around the nose. It will reduce the risk of sunburn and skin irritation and it is a paraben-free balm that offers a host of other benefits.
It can also soothe and heal the skin by adding moisture to the unprotected areas and it will prevent the nose color from fading. The formula is water-resistant which means that you can use it at the beach or at the lake without having to worry that your dog will be left unprotected if it decides to take a quick swim.
The balm can also be used to treat cracked paws and when you’re using it as a moisturizer, to get the best results you should apply it before bedtime for maximum absorption. It is very easy to apply the balm and you’ll only need to re-apply it every two hours for full UV protection.
The product is good for all breeds of dogs but specifically for pets with thin coats or no coats at all since they are the ones that are the most at risk of getting sunburns.
This product is water-resistant and once applied and dried it will continue to protect your dog if it decides to go for a swim.
It is free of dangerous chemicals that could damage the skin of your pet such as parabens, Titanium Oxide, and Zinc Oxide.
The balm has a clear and velvety smooth texture that is very easy to apply and it dries very fast and it will never get greasy or oily.
It will not just eliminate sunburns but it will also soothe and heal skin irritations by adding moisture to unprotected areas.
It dries relatively fast but for pets that like to lick their noses frequently, applying the balm can be frustrating since it gets removed by licking and you have to start all over again.
The container is very small and you get about half an ounce worth of product which won’t last you very long if you have a large dog.
6. Petkin Doggy Sunwipes 20 count
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to cover up your dog in sunscreen when it’s time to get outside for some fun, you should take the time to consider these nifty wipes. Each pack comes with 20 wipes that are moistened with a non-greasy formula that has been specifically designed for dogs, which is why it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals.
You can use the wipes to protect the entire coat of a light-colored or short-haired dog and it is very easy to use on sensitive areas such as the ears, muzzle, nose, and pink skin areas. It is much easier for pet parents to spread the sunscreen using these wipes than a spray formula that can often make your pet feel stressed.
The wipes can be used all-year-round and they compare to the protection offered by an SPF 15 rated sunscreen for people. You only need to apply it liberally 15 minutes before going outside and re-apply every 2 hours if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.
The package is resealable which means that you won’t risk the other wipes drying once you’ve opened the package. Depending on the size of your dog you might have to use more than one wipe to cover all sensitive areas.
The wipes are made with a gentle, non-oily and non-sticky formula that can provide year-round protection for your dog.
It is very easy to cover your dog in sunscreen since the wipes are much more comfortable to use without making a mess in the house, especially on sensitive areas such as the ears, nose, and muzzle.
The product uses gentle ingredients and your pet won’t be harmed if it licks itself after you are done applying the sunscreen.
It is one of the few dog sunscreens that doesn’t include zinc and it is also free of parabens.
These wipes are not waterproof which can be a big downside since dogs will naturally want to cool down during the summer and they’ll go for a quick swim when possible.
The product has a vanilla coconut fragrance and this is a big issue for pets that are very sensitive to fragrances, especially when applied to the nose area.
7. PETfection 100% Natural & Organic Dog Sunscreen Spray
This is a 100% natural and organic sunscreen spray designed to protect the skin of your pet from becoming sunburned and it can also soothe any redness that your dog might already have. It can be used anywhere on your dog’s body that the sun can reach with the exception of the eyes.
The formula steers far away from dangerous chemicals and instead focuses on natural and organic ingredients such as sesame, carrot seed, Aloe vera, and lavender. These ingredients won’t just protect the skin against the harmful effects of the sun but they will also nourish it and keep it moist and supple.
The gentle mist that the spray nozzle creates will get through the coat to reach the skin. For the more sensitive areas, you can spray sunscreen on your hands so that you get better control to avoid spraying it in your dog’s eyes.
The formula has a light white color so that you see where it’s been applied before it disappears into the skin. This makes it much easier to apply it evenly and cover every spot on your dog’s coat that needs to be protected. It is safe for dogs of all breeds and ages.
It is completely natural and organic with absolutely no chemicals, dyes, additives, or artificial fragrances used.
Once applied you won’t have to worry that your pet will get into trouble if it begins to lick its coat since this formula does not contain toxic ingredients.
The spray nozzle is very easy to use, you only need to spray sunscreen directly onto the affected area and then rub it in using your hands.
The formula is gentle and non-sticky so that your pet doesn’t feel uncomfortable once you are done applying it.
It won’t just protect the skin against the sun but it will also nourish it and keep it moist and healthy.
It is not the most affordable option on the market but if you want to get a product that uses only natural and organic ingredients you do need to pay more.
There’s no mention of whether this option is water-resistant.
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
When the summer months arrive and the sun is getting dangerously hot, it is time to think about sun protection for your pets. The list of available dog sunscreens is getting longer each day and this can make it difficult for a new pet parent to select the right product. With that said, you don’t need to fret since our buyer’s guide will help you make an educated purchase.
We’ve looked at numerous specialized articles, dog sunscreen reviews and customer surveys to identify the key factor one ought to consider when buying this type of product. Take a quick look below if you want to see more.
Types
There are three main types of dog sunscreens available for you to purchase: sprays, wipes, and sticks. All types are equally efficient but some owners may prefer one over the other for reasons that we will talk more about below.
Spray sunscreens are the most popular option on the market and they have the advantage of being much more efficient when you have dogs with thin coats or no coats at all. The spray nozzle will let you cover every spot of the coat with an even layer of sunscreen.
A spray product also tends to last you longer and be cheaper. The disadvantage of spray sunscreen is that it is much more difficult to apply the formula on the sensitive areas such as the nose, ears, muzzle, and eyes. They can also be a bit messy and it is best to avoid using them indoors.
Wipes provide a convenient and quick way to cover your dog in sunscreen without having to worry about making a mess in your home. Unlike a spray product that is best used outdoors so as not to make a mess in your home, wipes are much easier to use and provide a mess-free experience.
The main disadvantage is that if you have a large dog breed you’ll need to use a lot of wipes. While this is certainly a convenient type of sunscreen to use, it is not very economical and it can cost you more in the long run.
Lastly, sunscreen sticks are designed for breeds with a thick coat that only need protection on the areas where the skin is exposed to the sun such as the nose, ears, muzzle and pink areas. Since the stick is very small, you’ll have no problem reaching these small areas. They are very small so it’s difficult to use them to cover a large area.
Focus on pet-safe products
The thick, white cream sunscreen that people use contains Zinc Oxide, and while this substance is very effective in sunscreens for humans, it is toxic for dogs. It is important to check the ingredients list before purchasing a dog sunscreen since there are still some options that use Zinc Oxide.
If ingested, this substance can damage your dog’s red blood cells and that can result in severe anemia that can require a blood transfusion. Apart from reading the ingredients list, you should also take the time to see what previous customers have to say about the product in question.
Spending just one minute reading the top user reviews can help you get an idea of the quality that the sunscreen offers. Another way of ensuring that you get a pet-safe product is to focus exclusively on reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality pet products. They might cost a bit more but it will be worth it for the safety and health of your dog.
Waterproofing
Another important feature to consider when purchasing sunscreen for your dog is waterproofing. Many pet owners won’t even consider purchasing a product if they’re reading a dog sunscreen review and they see that it is not waterproof and for a good reason.
Dogs are very energetic and during the summer when the sun is the hottest there’s nothing they’ll love more than a swim to cool off a bit. If the sunscreen is not waterproof then you’ll need to reapply it every time your pet goes out of the water and this is simply not feasible.
With that said, you can still get a product that is not waterproof if your dog tends to avoid water or if you live in an area where there are very few spots where your pet could bathe.
Other protection measures
Sunscreen is very important but just as we tend to put on sunglasses, hats and special UV-protective clothing when going out in the sun, your dog can do it too. You can purchase canine rash guard shirts and visors that have a UPF 50.
The best protection against the harmful effects of the sun is avoidance so if your pet likes to spend a lot of time outdoors, you can also consider getting an exercise pen that has a sunscreen cover. The cover will work similarly to a beach umbrella and it will block the sun’s rays and leave your pet to have fun for hours on end without any side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can a dog get sunburn?
Yes, dogs can get sunburn just as easily as humans do, especially light-colored and short-haired pets. White dogs tend to have fairer skin underneath their fur and this makes them more susceptible to getting burned by the sun.
With that said, if you have a long-haired or dark-colored dog, it doesn’t mean that it will be safe for it to spend hours in the sun. All canines, regardless of their breeds or thickness of their coats have areas that are vulnerable such as the belly, ears, and nose.
It is very important to keep them protected and use a high-quality sunscreen when spending time in the sun. You should also watch out when walking on hot roads and paths during the summer since it can be easy to forget just how hot these surfaces can get when you’re not walking barefooted. If it’s too hot outside for you, then it is too hot for your pet as well.
Q: What kind of sunscreen is safe for dogs?
You can’t use human sunscreen on dogs since it contains ingredients that are toxic to your four-legged companion. Zinc Oxide is one of the most dangerous ingredients in sunscreens since if ingested it can cause severe anemia that can result in the death of your pet or require expensive treatments to cure.
It is best to focus on products that are designed specifically for dogs. Since the FDA doesn’t test sunscreens for pets, it can be difficult to find the right product. The first step should always be to check the list of ingredients. Make sure that the product does not contain Zinc Oxide, Titanium Oxide, parabens or sulfates.
Once you’ve found a product you like, you should also take a few minutes to read some product reviews to get an honest opinion. Lastly, don’t forget to discuss with your veterinarian since he or she will be able to provide you with more detailed information and guide you to the right product for your pet.
Q: How and in what areas do you apply sunscreen to your dog?
You can apply sunscreen everywhere on your dog, especially if you have a breed that has a thin coat. The most important areas that need to be covered are the spots that are exposed and that don’t have much fur coverage.
These areas include the face, ears, snout, lips, belly, and groin. You should pay particular attention to areas of light or pink skin around the snout and nose since these spots are very sensitive and need extra protection. For dogs that suffer from alopecia, you should also cover any patches of skin where the hair has thinned.
As to how to apply sunscreen, things are fairly simple since all you need to do is follow the instructions that the manufacturer has included on the packaging. If your pet has special needs, you can also ask your vet about how to properly apply sunscreen on your pet.
Q: Can I put human sunscreen on my dog?
It is best to avoid using human sunscreen on your dog. With that said, if you’re in a situation where you don’t have a dog sunscreen available and you absolutely need to take your dog out in the sun, then you might be able to get by with a sunscreen designed for children or babies that is SPF 15 or higher.
You still need to be cautious and check the ingredients before you even consider applying it to your dog. Never use a sunscreen that contains Zinc Oxide and this is a very common ingredient among human sunscreens. You should avoid para-aminobenzoic acid and products that are artificially scented since these ingredients can be toxic to pets.
If the sunscreen seems safe, you should test a small amount on a patch of your dog’s skin to see if there’s any side-effect. Don’t use it if the skin shows signs of irritation or if your pet looks uncomfortable.
Q: Can dogs be allergic to sunscreen?
Yes, sunscreens can have ingredients that may be safe for some pets but trigger allergies in others. Sunscreens that are artificially scented, in particular, should be avoided if you have a sensitive pet since these ingredients can be toxic to dogs and trigger nasty adverse reactions once applied to the skin.
You should take the time and discuss with your veterinarian about the ingredients that your pet is allergic to and if they can be found in dog sunscreens. Before trying any sunscreen on your pet, even if you believe it to be safe, you should test it on a small area first since there’s always a small chance that your dog might have a reaction to it.
Find a small area of skin that you can check easily and put some sunscreen on it while keeping an eye on your dog to see if there’s any behavioral change or if the skin gets irritated.
Leave a comment
0 Comments