.jpg?w=684&h=912)
By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Yes, dogs can get sunburned, especially on areas with thin fur or pink skin. In Singapore, the sun is strong all year round, so sun protection isn't just a holiday concern. Shade and timing are your best defence, and coconut oil is a gentle way to soothe the skin afterwards.
Which dogs are most at risk?
- Light-coloured or white coats, and dogs with pink skin
- Short or thin coats, and hairless breeds
- Dogs who've just been groomed or shaved
- Sun-loving dogs who like to sunbathe
- Thin-furred areas on any dog: the nose, ear tips, belly and inner thighs
Signs of sunburn
- Red, warm or tender skin
- Dry, flaky or peeling skin
- Hair loss in sun-exposed areas
- Licking or scratching at the area
- Blisters, in more serious cases
How to prevent sunburn
✓ Walk early or late: avoid the strongest sun, roughly 10am to 4pm.
✓ Provide shade at home and on outings.
✓ Don't shave your dog's coat. It might seem cooler, but the coat protects the skin from the sun.
✓ Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the nose and ear tips before short outings, for mild natural protection.
How coconut oil helps
Coconut oil gives mild natural protection for short outings, but shade and avoiding the midday sun are still your main defence. Where it really shines is caring for the skin:
Soothes sunburned skin
Calms redness and dryness.
Supports healing
Keeps the skin moisturised as it repairs.
Safe if licked
You don't need to worry when your dog cleans it off.
Conditions nose and paws
Keeps them less likely to dry and crack in the heat.
How to soothe mild sunburn
Cool the skin with a damp, cool cloth. Not ice.
Clean gently with JOOF Hygiene Water.
Apply a thin layer of coconut oil 2–3 times a day.
Keep your dog out of the sun until the skin has healed.
See a vet if there are blisters, open sores, or if your dog seems unwell, lethargic or overheated.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use sunscreen on my dog?
I don't recommend it. Many sunscreens, including human ones, contain zinc oxide or other ingredients that are harmful if licked, and I haven't found one that's completely toxin-free. Instead, rely on shade, walking early or late, and a thin layer of coconut oil on the nose and ear tips.
Can cats get sunburned too?
Yes, especially white cats on their ear tips and nose. The same care applies.
Which coconut oil should I use?
Choose an organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil that's also therapeutic grade. Not every organic, cold-pressed virgin coconut oil is. I recommend CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, which is therapeutic grade.
Shop this article
This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
RELATED READING
-Main.jpg?w=1920&h=720)