What Sun Poisoning Looks Like in Dogs: Signs Every Pet Owner Should Know

By: Ashley Ralls

Sunshine can be great for outdoor adventures with your dog, but too much exposure can cause serious health problems—one of the most concerning being sun poisoning. While many people know about sunburn in pets, sun poisoning is a more severe reaction that can quickly escalate if not recognized and treated. Understanding what sun poisoning looks like in dogs is critical to keeping your furry friend safe during hot, sunny days.

1. Red, Inflamed Skin in Sun-Exposed Areas One of the first visible signs of sun poisoning in dogs is red, inflamed skin—especially in areas with thin fur or lighter pigmentation. The nose, ears, belly, and around the eyes are particularly vulnerable. The skin may appear unusually pink or red, and your dog might wince or flinch if you touch those areas.

2. Blisters or Peeling Skin As the condition worsens, the skin may develop blisters or even begin to peel. This is a strong indication of deeper tissue damage, similar to a second-degree sunburn in humans. These areas are very painful and can lead to secondary infections if the skin barrier becomes compromised.

3. Excessive Scratching or Licking Dogs with sun poisoning often try to soothe their discomfort by licking, biting, or scratching the affected areas. This behavior can make the irritation worse and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. If your dog suddenly becomes obsessed with grooming a specific area, take a closer look for signs of skin damage.

4. Lethargy and Weakness Sun poisoning isn't just skin-deep—it can also cause systemic symptoms. Dogs may become unusually tired, slow to respond, or uninterested in their usual activities. This lethargy is a sign that the sun exposure has affected more than just their skin and that their body is working hard to recover.

5. Vomiting or Diarrhea In more severe cases, dogs can develop gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea as a result of heat stress or sun poisoning. These symptoms may be accompanied by drooling or signs of nausea. If you notice this alongside sunburn symptoms, veterinary attention is urgent.

6. Fever and Warm Skin A fever is another warning sign. A dog's normal body temperature ranges from 101°F to 102.5°F. If your dog feels especially warm to the touch or has hot, dry skin, it may be running a fever. This can indicate inflammation or heat-related illness caused by prolonged sun exposure.

7. Shaking or Disorientation Neurological symptoms like trembling, disorientation, or difficulty walking are serious signs of advanced sun poisoning or heatstroke. These symptoms mean the condition is affecting your dog’s central nervous system and immediate medical care is necessary.

8. What to Do If You Suspect Sun Poisoning If you suspect your dog has sun poisoning, bring them indoors immediately and offer cool (not cold) water. Avoid applying human creams or ointments unless advised by a vet. Contact your veterinarian promptly—especially if your dog shows signs of blistering, lethargy, vomiting, or fever. Prevention is key, so during hot weather, keep dogs shaded, hydrated, and indoors during peak sun hours.