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Can Dogs Get Sunburn? Summer Dangers to Avoid for Pet Owners

At long last, the dog days of summer are here. Longer days, family vacations, backyard barbecues, and outdoor adventures create plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with your canine companion.

But summer also brings seasonal hazards that many pet owners underestimate. While most people know to provide water and shade, dogs face a variety of warm-weather risks that can quickly turn dangerous. From overheating and dehydration to toxic plants and burned paw pads, summer presents challenges that require extra vigilance.

Here are seven common summer dangers veterinarians see every year, and what you can do to keep your dog safe.

1. Heat Stroke and Dehydration

Dogs don't sweat the way humans do. They primarily cool themselves through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. When temperatures rise, this cooling system can become overwhelmed.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that can develop quickly, especially in brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, as well as overweight dogs, senior pets, and puppies.

Signs of heat stroke include:

Many owners also wonder whether dogs can dehydrate. The answer is absolutely yes. A dehydrated dog may have dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and reduced skin elasticity.

Always provide access to fresh water and shade when outdoors. Schedule walks during cooler morning or evening hours and avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat.

If you suspect heat stroke, move your dog to a cool area immediately, offer water, and contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic right away.

2. Hot Cars

One of the most preventable summer tragedies involves dogs in hot cars.

Even on a relatively mild day, temperatures inside a vehicle can climb rapidly. Cracking the windows provides little protection. Within minutes, the interior of a parked car can become dangerously hot.

Many pet owners underestimate how dangerous a dog in a car or hot environment can be. On an 80-degree day, interior temperatures can exceed 100 degrees in less than 20 minutes. On hotter days, temperatures may reach 120 degrees or more.

Dogs left in hot vehicles can suffer heat stroke, brain damage, organ failure, and death.

The safest rule is simple: if you can't bring your dog inside with you, leave them at home in a cool environment.

If you see a distressed dog in a parked vehicle, contact local authorities immediately.

3. Burned Paw Pads

Sidewalks, asphalt, and sand absorb and retain heat throughout the day. While air temperatures may feel manageable, ground surfaces can become hot enough to burn sensitive paw pads.

Before walking your dog, place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's feet.

Signs of burned paw pads include:

Consider walking during cooler hours or using protective booties when necessary.

4. Sunburn

Many people are surprised to learn that dogs can get sunburn.

In fact, if you've ever asked, "Can dogs get sunburn?" the answer is yes. Dogs with light-colored coats, thin fur, pink skin, or sparse hair coverage are particularly vulnerable.

Common areas affected by sunburn include:

Sunburn can cause redness, pain, peeling skin, and discomfort. Repeated sun exposure may even increase the risk of certain skin cancers.

Provide shaded areas when outdoors and ask your veterinarian about pet-safe sunscreen products. Never use human sunscreen containing zinc oxide, as it can be toxic if ingested.

5. Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

Summer is prime season for parasites.

Fleas can trigger allergic reactions and skin infections. Ticks may transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Mosquitoes spread heartworm disease, which can be costly and difficult to treat.

Protect your dog by:

Remember that prevention is far easier (and less expensive) than treatment.

6. Toxic Plants, Fertilizers, and Garden Chemicals

Summer gardening can unintentionally create hazards for pets.

Many landscaping products contain chemicals that may be harmful if ingested. Fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, and mulch products can all pose risks.

Certain plants are also toxic to dogs, including:

Symptoms of poisoning vary but may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, tremors, or seizures.

Store lawn and garden products securely, follow label directions carefully, and supervise your dog when exploring new outdoor areas.

If you suspect your dog has consumed a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian immediately.

7. Water and Swimming Hazards

Many dogs love swimming, but water activities carry risks.

Strong currents, rip tides, boating accidents, and fatigue can all place dogs in danger. Not every dog is a natural swimmer, and even experienced swimmers can become exhausted.

Additional concerns include:

Whenever possible:

Blue-green algae can be especially dangerous because exposure may cause severe illness or death within hours.

Don't Forget About Cats

While dogs often receive most of the attention during summer safety discussions, cat owners should also remain vigilant.

Heat stroke in cats is less common than in dogs, but it can still occur. Cats confined to poorly ventilated areas, garages, sheds, or sunrooms may overheat during periods of extreme heat.

Signs of heat stroke in cats include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. Like dogs, affected cats require immediate veterinary care.

Indoor cats should always have access to fresh water and cool resting areas during hot weather.

Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer should be a season of fun, not emergencies. By understanding the most common warm-weather risks, including heat stroke, dehydration, burned paws, parasites, toxic substances, and the dangers of hot cars, you can help your pet stay healthy all season long.

A little preparation goes a long way toward preventing accidents and ensuring your pet enjoys a safe, happy summer by your side.