How to Use Sunscreen on a Dogs Nose

Spending time in the sun is great for humans and dogs alike, but sunburn can have devastating effects. Light colored and hairless dogs are particularly vulnerable to the sun, but most dogs need protection for prolonged exposure of sensitive areas like the tips of the ears, the eyelids, stomach and nose. The skin of the nose just behind the tip can easily become burned and dehydrated causing it to dry, crack and bleed. Protect your dog's nose from sun-related conditions by using sunscreen every time it spends more than an hour in the sun.

Things You'll Need

  • Sunscreen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a sunscreen that is non-toxic for animals. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a good product for you, or use a sunscreen made for young children, which is less likely to have scent added or any other ingredients that can irritate the dog's skin.

    • 2

      Select a product with a sun protection factor of at least 15. This will provide the level of protection your pet's sensitive skin needs. It should not contain PABA or zinc oxide, which can be harmful to your dog.

    • 3

      Apply the sunscreen to the exposed area of the nose, just behind the tip where the hair begins. Distract the dog and keep its attention so the sunscreen has time to soak in.

    • 4

      Apply a second coat after 15 minutes, and use it every time your dog spends more than an hour in the sun.

    • 5

      Treat scabs that develop on the nose with an antiseptic such as witch hazel and a healing tea tree oil or ointment before continuing with the sunscreen.