Can Dogs Get a Suntan?

The Sunshine “D” Factor

It is common knowledge that we get vitamin D from the sun. It is healthy, good for our bones and muscles. But too much sun can cause a sunburn, and yes, your dog can get a sunburn.

How the sun can affect your dog.

Doggy Tan Lines

Your dog does have a lot of hair (most breeds) but that doesn’t prevent him getting a tan or even a sunburn. Ever had a sunburn on your head. Yeah. I have an Australian Shephard and to much sun can give her a sunburn on her nose.

A tan line on your dog may be harder to see but dogs also have Melanocytes that cause their skin to tan.

This is obviously easier to see on your dog where there is less hair, like their belly or their paws.

Sun time should be watched for a dog just as we do as humans.

Veterinarians recommend owners of dogs sunbathing to be mindful of their pets’ sensitivity to the strong rays and apply sunscreen. There are sunscreen products made for dogs, you should NEVER use human sunscreen product on your dog as some of the ingredients may be toxic. Dogs can get skin cancer just as we do. Always consider your dog’s safety when your out in the sun.

For more information on dogs and the sun click here.

https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2017/07/14/pet-overheating.aspx

For information on overheated dogs click here

https://www.akcchf.org/canine-health/your-dogs-health/caring-for-your-dog/dehydration-and-overheating.html#:~:text=Overheated%20dogs%20can%20suffer%20heat,noisy%20breathing%20could%20signal%20overheating.&text=If%20you%20suspect%20your%20field,before%20heading%20to%20the%20veterinarian.

For information on dog sunburn burn click here.

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-sunscreen/#:~:text=Treating%20Sunburn%20in%20Dogs&text=Cool%20compresses%20and%20ointments%20may,be%20needed%20to%20prevent%20inflammation.

HOW LONG WILL YOUR DOG LIVE?

The Average Lifespan for Dogs

Many people often wonder what the true expected lifespan is for their dog. We have all heard the multiply by “7” rule. This rule holds factual truth, but other factors determine your dog’s lifespan just as it would with human being.

Keep in mind the fact that smaller dogs typically have a longer lifespan than larger dogs. Science tells us that the first year of a dog’s life is around 15 years of a human life. So as a dog ages you will see the visible difference of how a dog ages compared to humans. As an example: a smaller dog that is 16 years old is the equivalent of an 80-year-old human. But a larger breed dog that is 16 is typically more equivalent to a 120-year-old human.

Genetics and Breeding

With Dogs as human’s longevity is largely based on genetics and the breeding. Certain breeds also have inherent health issue related to that breed.

Nutrition

Basic nutrition is critical for any dog. Buying and feeding your dog a good quality, nutritious dog food will keep your dog with the needed vitamins and nutrients that will increase his longevity. Extra supplements should only be needed if your dog is an athlete or a show dog. Know that poor nutrition can cause stress in your dog and stress decreases lifespan in dogs just as it can with humans.

Exercise

Exercise, exercise, exercise. True for humans, true for dogs. Use it or lose it. Daily walks at a minimum, running pay time better yet. Enough said.

Health Care

Taking your dog’s health into consideration contributes to his longevity. As they age regular checkups with your veterinarian become more and more critical. Health issues that are caught early can be remedied easier. Fleas, tics, and parasites can affect your dog’s health, cause stress and shorten his life span. Also, when and if your dog is injured, professional advice, and care should be administered to your dog.

The Environment

Your dog may spend a lot of time outdoors. Always be aware of toxins and contaminants that he may be closer to and be affected by. Things to keep in mind are lawn fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides can be toxic and affect your dog’s health in an extremely negative way. Keep all toxins safely stored out of reach from the curiosity of your dog.

Mental and Emotional Stimulation

A happy dog is a dog that lives a long life. Keep your dog in a happy, healthy environment with plenty of stimulation and exercise. Boredom can lead to depression and depression can shorten you dog’s lifespan. It’s simple.

Lots of Love

All we need is Love. Love is all we need. Dogs are just like humans in that we all want to be loved. When love is not demonstrated to your dog, stress, depression, and sadness is the side effect. That will shorten your dog’s lifespan. Show your dog he is part of the family (pack), show him he matters and show him he is appreciated, wanted and most of all LOVED.