Like all dogs, German Shepherds also enjoy the sun. A little too long under the harsh sun rays can be harmful to a German Shepherd as much as it can be to a human. Spending some time out in the sun can do a lot of good to your dog, but this does come with its caveat.
German Shepherds can get sunburned just like any other dog, or even humans for that matter. Their ears, nose, and belly are most prone to sunburn, and the symptoms of sunburn are usually indicated through curled and dry edges on your dog’s ears and skin infections.
In this article, you will find more information about these symptoms in detail and how it can be treated and prevented. Keep on reading to learn about the sun risks you may be inadvertently exposing your dog to, and how to use sunscreen to help your German Shepherd avoid getting sunburned.
Are German Shepherds Less At Risk Of Getting Sunburned?
Like any other breed, German Shepherds are at risk of being sunburned when exposed to the harsh sun for a prolonged time. It is a common belief that dogs that have light fur cover or are thin furred are more at risk. However, it does not completely nullify the fact that dark-colored and thick-coated dogs are not at risk.
Standard German Shepherds are mostly dark coated, and their standard coat is also quite thick. This does not mean that they cannot get sunburned. They are just as susceptible to being sunburned as any other light coated four-legged furry friend.
Areas That Get the Most Damaged Due To Sunburn
When a German Shepherd gets sunburned, you will notice a considerable change in their fur’s texture. Generally, their thick fur coat is quite soft and smooth to touch, but the texture no longer stays the same when they get sunburned. It tends to become rough to the touch and develops a kind of burned edge.
Apart from the coat, you also need to check the tip of their ears, nose, and their bellies for possible sun damage. Other areas that may be sensitive to the sun are the areas around the mouth, the tail, and even the eyelids.
Even though the German Shepherd may be thickly coated and covered in dark fur, any sun damage can be easily felt by touching the surface area of these body parts. They will feel rough and almost crinkly to the touch. Aside from this, there are many other symptoms of sunburn, which are discussed below:
Symptoms Of Sunburn
Usually, the most obvious sunburn symptom in a dog is quite similar to the symptom in humans. The skin turns red. However, this may be slightly difficult to discern in a dark-coated furry friend like a German Shepherd, in which case the other symptoms will come in handy.
- Rough and crinkly hair. Among the other symptoms, another most obvious one is hair loss. Sunburn causes the hair on your four-legged friends to turn crinkly and rough. Eventually, they tend to fall off. This is not similar to shedding, as shedding is a natural process. This hair fall will be noticeable and more than is usual.
- Ears develop dry edges. You will also want to check your dog’s ears. Dog ears tend to stay soft to the touch. However, if you find that the edges are cracked or have developed unusual dryness, then that is also a sign of sunburn. (Source)
- Skin infections. Skin infections are a common problem resulting from sunburn. Too much of the sun’s harsh rays, and it is quite likely to trigger an infection on your German Shepherd’s skin. This could be a rash that they cannot stop itching to something more serious, like skin ulcers.
- Skin ulcers. Skin ulcers are open wounds that ooze pus. In case you see these wounds on your German Shepherd’s body, it is advisable to take them to a veterinarian at the earliest. These ulcers are treatable if steps are taken at the right time.
The Risk Of Overheating
While German Shepherd dogs do quite well in cold as well as hot weather as long as they have their standard coat and access to shade and cold water. The risk of overheating arises when any one of these three things is missing and the dog has been exposed to the sun for a prolonged period with no respite.
Overheating can also cause similar effects as sunburn as the sun’s Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays will affect the fur and skin of your precious German Shepherd dog. In addition to that, overheating can also lead to a host of internal problems in your dog’s organs, causing your dog to suffer and become irritable.
How To Avoid Sunburns In German Shepherds?
There are many different ways in which you can prevent sunburn in your German Shepherd. Some of them are, in fact, quite simple and straightforward. Here are a few quick and easy steps you can follow:
Use A Shade
While it may seem relatively simple, adding a shade for your German Shepherd dog will work wonders in preventing sunburn. The idea is so simple and easy that it almost seems impossible that so few people have adopted it for their dogs.
Having a shade constantly on their backs while they are outdoors will give them the thrill of being out in the sun while, at the same time, protecting them from the harmful rays of the sun.
There are lots of options available in the market today, from the Niubya 1680D Large Canopy Dog Crib to the CoolerDog Oasis – Dog Shadow, both portable and lightweight. You can carry these around with you to the parks or other outdoor spaces and make use of the shade that these canopies provide.
Introduce Your German Shepherd To Protective Clothing
Another way to prevent sunburn in your dog is to gear them up with Ultraviolet (UV) protective clothing. These may not be as effective as a canopy, but it does help protect the sensitive areas of your dog like their belly and most of their precious coat, so it comes highly recommended.
Use Sunscreen For Your German Shepherd Dog
Consider using sunscreen to prevent any damages that your dog may suffer from sun exposure. Ideally, using a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor or SPF range between 30 and 50 should suffice. You can choose between a spray, stick, or balm. You do not need to go on a hunt for a special sunscreen for dogs.
You can try the Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen, which comes with SPF 30 and is oil free. It is also rich in antioxidants which is great for the skin and is enriched with Vitamin C and E.
Apply it gently over the most sensitive areas of their body, basically giving the nose, ears, and belly a good rub with it. Do not forget any bare patches on their body.
Final Thoughts
Although there are sunscreen and many alternatives that you can implement to help your dog from being sunburned, there is also only so much that a sunscreen lotion can do to help protect your beloved hound. Somewhat limiting the time outdoors can help avoid being sunburned.