Protecting more than paws: A guide to choosing safe and effective dog sunscreen

According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 6 million cancer diagnoses are made in dogs each year, with cancer being the leading cause of death in adult dogs.^1,2 Of these, 30% involve skin cancer, with 20% classified as mast cell tumors. Mast cell tumors are commonly located in the skin, with 50% found on the body, 40% found on the limbs (particularly the hind limbs), and the remaining 10% found on the head and neck.³ The treatment of choice for mast cell tumors is surgical excision, with chemotherapy and radiation therapies considered for severe mast cell tumors. Given the invasive treatments involved regardless of severity, prevention of mast cell tumors and skin cancer in dogs is crucial.⁴

According to the American Kennel Club, smaller dog breeds are defined as those that weigh less than 35 lb and should spend a few hours outdoors in temperatures ranging from 60 °F to 90 °F, whereas medium- to large-sized dog breeds can stay outdoors longer under the same conditions.³ However, prolonged exposure to UV radiation increases the risk of 2 solar-induced skin cancers: hemangiosarcoma (HSA) and squamous cell carcinoma.⁵

HSA is a cancer of the blood vessels that commonly affects the spleen or heart of older, large-breed dogs. Although its exact cause is unclear, UV radiation is believed to contribute to the development of the skin form of HSA.⁶ Squamous cell carcinoma, by contrast, is the most frequently diagnosed skin cancer in dogs, and there are 2 types: cutaneous and subungual.⁷ Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma affects older dogs and usually appears on the head, lower legs, abdomen, and rear. Subungual squamous cell carcinoma develops underneath the nail.⁶

Introduction

According to Credence Research, the veterinary dermatology market is projected to grow from $18,545,000 in 2024 to $35,091,000 by 2032.⁸ This significant growth demonstrates the rising demand and awareness for dermatological care for companion and livestock animals worldwide.⁹ Dermatological conditions like parasitic infestations, allergic dermatitis, autoimmune skin disorders, and skin cancers are becoming more prevalent.⁸

Despite the growing awareness, a common misconception continues that a dog’s fur provides protection against sun-related skin damage. However, certain breeds are particularly susceptible and associated with skin cancer. Breeds like bloodhounds, basset hounds, and standard poodles are at greatest risk of squamous cell carcinoma, which usually appears on the head, legs, abdomen, and rear. Cancers caused by prolonged sun exposure may develop on the lower abdomen or near the pubic area in white-skinned, short-haired breeds, such as Dalmatians, pit bull terriers, bull terriers, and beagles. Lastly, skin cancer may develop on the underside of poorly haired dogs, as they lack protection from UV radiation. This risk is further increased by the dog’s instinctual behavior, such as lying on its back.⁶ Given the wide range of causes of skin cancers in dogs, pharmacists can play an important role in reducing UV-related risk and supporting overall canine skin health through counseling and recommending appropriate products.

Sunscreen

A 2022 survey of 2000 dog owners revealed significant gaps in awareness regarding canine sun protection. Approximately 46% of owners were unaware that dogs require sun protection, whereas 55% did not realize that sunburn can be just as harmful to a dog's skin as it is to humans. Lastly, 7 in 10 owners were unaware of how much sunscreen to apply. With very few owners knowing about a dog’s sunscreen needs, even fewer regularly use sunscreen. Approximately 57% of owners reported they never apply sunscreen to their dogs when they go for walks. Furthermore, 4 in 10 owners believe that human sunscreens are safe for dogs. Many human sunscreens contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, especially if ingested during grooming.¹⁰

Such toxic ingredients include zinc oxide, salicylates, and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).¹¹ Zinc oxide, when ingested, can lead to vomiting. In rare scenarios, it can lead to facial swelling and pruritus.¹² Salicylates, which include aspirin, may result in gastrointestinal (GI) upset, GI ulceration, hyperthermia, tachypnea, acidosis, and acute liver injury.^12,13 In fact, salicylates, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, are considered the most frequently ingested poisonous medication class, according to the Pet Poison Helpline.¹⁴ Lastly, PABA, which is found in older sunscreen formulations, is also associated with adverse reactions in dogs.^13,15

Although there are sunscreens marketed for dogs, they are usually not tested by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). Thus, their effectiveness and sun protection factor (SPF) rating are unclear.¹⁶ Currently, only Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen is approved by the CVM for use in dogs and horses.¹⁷ It is the only FDA-compliant pet sunscreen, meaning its material, packaging, or product meets all FDA regulations (passed inspections, has proper labels, or has had all proper forms submitted to the administration).¹⁸ Therefore, this product should be used whenever possible. If this product is unavailable, dog-marketed sunscreens are preferred over human sunscreens as an alternative due to safety considerations, as mentioned earlier. Before purchasing these dog-marketed sunscreens, consider consulting with a veterinarian or pharmacist.

If a dog-marketed sunscreen is used, it is generally advisable to select one that is water-resistant, unscented, and with at least an SPF of 30, even if it is not officially standardized. Before a full application, a small patch test should be performed to check for any allergic reaction. Sunscreen should be applied to areas most vulnerable to UV radiation, including the bridge of the nose, ear tips, skin around the lips, inner thigh, and groin—especially in dogs with fair or light complexion. Sunscreen should also be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 4 to 6 hours, or more frequently after swimming.¹⁹

Sunscreen alternatives

If dog-marketed sunscreens are not readily available, alternative sun protection methods can be just as effective. Protective clothing, such as sun shirts or cooling vests, can cover large areas of skin, reducing direct exposure to UV radiation. Like humans, limiting sun exposure during peak hours is also essential. Avoiding outdoor activity between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV radiation is the strongest, can reduce the risk of skin damage.¹⁹

Although this article focuses on canine sun protection, pharmacists and pet owners should also be aware that prolonged exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of skin squamous cell carcinomas in cats. These tumors usually develop on sun-exposed areas, such as the ears, eyelids, eyelashes, nose, and lips. White or lightly colored cats have less protection against UV radiation and are therefore more commonly affected.

Thus, both dogs and cats can experience sun-related skin damage. Similar preventive measures are suggested for cats, including using UV-filtering window screens and keeping cats indoors during peak sunlight hours (between 10 AM and 2 PM).²⁰ However, sunscreen recommendations mentioned are not interchangeable between species. Products considered safe for dogs should not be used on cats, and vice versa.

Pharmacy perspective

From a pharmacist's perspective, education in animal health is important for improving patient outcomes. Pharmacists are the most accessible health care professionals and frequently provide counseling and over-the-counter recommendations to human patients. In many community settings, pharmacists also dispense medications prescribed for pets. Thus, this accessibility places pharmacists in a valuable position to guide pet owners in selecting safe and effective treatments tailored to a pet’s specific needs. Their expertise allows them to analyze ingredients, identify potential toxicities, and ensure an appropriate dose based on species, size, and health status. By strengthening collaboration with veterinarians, pharmacists can further enhance patient care while expanding their knowledge in animal health.

This interdisciplinary approach helps reduce the risk of acute issues, supports pets’ overall health and well-being, and provides pet owners with an additional resource when navigating animal health products.

References

1. How common is cancer in dogs? risk and early warning signs. American Animal Hospital Association. Updated April 29, 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.aaha.org/resources/canine-cancer/
2. Dog breeds and cancer: which dogs have increased risk? IDEXX. January 9, 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.thevetiverse.com/en-au/latest/dog-breeds-and-cancer-which-dogs-have-increased-risk/
3. Facts. FETCH a Cure. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://fetchacure.org/resource-library/facts/
4. Canine cutaneous mast cell tumor. Veterinary Cancer Society. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://vetcancersociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Draft-Mass-Cell-Tumor-vs4.pdf
5. Paretts S. How long can you keep your dog outside? American Kennel Club. Updated March 24, 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/how-long-can-dogs-be-outside/
6. Hohenhaus A. Do dogs need sunscreen? protecting your dog from solar-induced tumors. The Animal Medical Center. September 15, 2021. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://www.amcny.org/blog/2021/09/15/do-dogs-need-sunscreen-protecting-your-dog-from-solar-induced-tumors/
7. Cohen A, Sylvester S. Hemangiosarcoma in dogs. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Updated October 2024. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/hemangiosarcoma-dogs
8. Villalobos AE. Tumors of the skin in dogs. Merck Veterinary Manual. Updated April 2026. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/skin-disorders-of-dogs/tumors-of-the-skin-in-dogs
9. Veterinary dermatology market outlook 2025-2032: growth drivers, trends, and forecast. Credence Research LinkedIn page. July 8, 2025. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/veterinary-dermatology-market-outlook-2025-2032-growth-0a21c
10. Bisht S. Veterinary dermatology drugs market. Credence Research Inc; 2025. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/veterinary-dermatology-market
11. Melore C. Sunscreen for pets? nearly half of dog owners don’t know their pooch can get sunburnt too. StudyFinds. July 15, 2022. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://studyfinds.org/sunscreen-for-pets/
12. Pets and sunscreen: don’t get burned by the myths! American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. August 7, 2019. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://www.aspca.org/news/pets-and-sunscreen-dont-get-burned-myths
13. Sunscreen and zinc oxide ingestion in pets. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/sunscreen-and-zinc-oxide-ingestion-pets
14. Top 10 human medications poisonous to pets. Pet Poison Helpline. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owners/basics/top-10-human-medications-poisonous-to-pets/
15. Immelman L, Goodman IH, Keller N. Transient chemotherapy-induced alopecia after successful reversal of 5-fluorouracil myelosuppression and neurotoxicosis in a 9-month-old dog. Aust Vet J. 2022;100(6):236-242. doi:10.1111/avj.13154
16. Meyers H. Do dogs need sunscreen? American Kennel Club. Updated March 10, 2026. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/do-dogs-need-sunscreen/
17. O’Sullivan K. Do dogs need sunscreen? Forbes. July 8, 2025. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-dog-sunscreens/
18. FDA compliant vs. approved: what is the difference? The Cary Company. Accessed April 9, 2026. https://www.thecarycompany.com/insights/articles/fda-compliant-vs-approved-what-is-the-difference
19. Do dogs need sunscreen? Apex Vets. Accessed April 6, 2026. https://apex.vet/blog/do-dogs-need-sunscreen/
20. Villalobos AE. Tumors of the skin in cats. Merck Veterinary Manual. Updated May 2026. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/cat-owners/skin-disorders-of-cats/tumors-of-the-skin-in-cats#squamous-cell-carcinomas_v3247220