“Protect Your Dog from the Sun with Budget-Friendly UV Protection Gear”
Just like humans, dogs can suffer serious skin damage from spending too much time in the sun. Prolonged sun exposure without proper protection can lead to canine solar dermatitis—a chronic sunburn condition that may increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
That’s why sun protection for dogs is essential, especially during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking trails, or just lounging in the backyard, make sure your pup is protected with veterinarian-recommended SPF products.
Why SPF Matters for Dogs
“Dogs need sunscreen too—preferably with SPF 30 or higher,” says Dr. Jeanne Budgin, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist at Hudson Valley Veterinary Dermatology. “Look for products that are fragrance-free, waterproof, and offer UVA and UVB protection, especially if your dog will be active outdoors.”
Top Dog Sunscreens and Sun Protection Gear in 2025
Here’s a roundup of the best dog sun protection products available now to keep your furry friend safe and sunburn-free:
🏆 Best Overall:
[Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen – $18 (Amazon)]
A vet-approved, non-greasy spray that offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Ideal for all-day outings.
💨 Best Spray Formula:
[Emmy’s Best Dog Sun Protector Spray – $19 (Amazon)]
Quick and easy application—great for dogs who hate lotions!
💸 Best Budget Pick:
[Petkin Doggy Sun Stick – $12 (Amazon)]
Portable and affordable stick that works well for small areas like ears and noses.
👕 Best Sun-Blocking Clothing:
[PlayaPup Dog Sun Shirt (Amazon)]
Lightweight and UPF 50+—a stylish way to keep your pup cool and covered.
🌿 Best Organic Option:
[Sit. Stay. Forever. Dog Sunscreen – $17 (Amazon)]
Made with safe, organic ingredients and no harsh chemicals.
👃 Best for Noses:
[Lucky Pup Sunscreen Balm – $6 (Chewy)]
Specially formulated for sensitive snouts and paw pads.
🍃 Best After-Sun Care:
[Banana Boat Aloe Spray – (Amazon)]
Soothes sun-kissed skin—great for post-sun playtime.
☀️ Best UV-Protective Tank:
[Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee (Amazon)]
Breathable, comfy, and perfect for hot sunny days.
Best Overall
Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Love:
- ✅ Only FDA-approved sunscreen for dogs
- ✅ Broad-spectrum SPF 30–40 protection
- ✅ Non-greasy, quick-dry formula
- ✅ Nourishes skin and coat with vitamin E
- ✅ Sprays from any angle—perfect for squirmy pups
❌ What Could Be Better:
- ❌ May leave a slight film on some fur types
🐶 Why It’s a Top Pick:
If you’re looking for professional-grade sun protection for your dog, look no further than Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen. It’s currently the only FDA-approved sunscreen made specifically for dogs, offering peace of mind for pet parents who want the best.
Formulated with a powerful SPF 30–40, it guards against UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent sunburn, skin damage, and even malignant tumors. The spray bottle is cleverly designed to work at any angle, making application a breeze—even for nervous or active pets.
Veterinarians like Dr. Jeanne Budgin recommend it not just for its protection, but also for its micro-emulsified formula that penetrates the coat effectively. Bonus: it’s enriched with vitamin E to keep your dog’s fur soft and healthy.
🧴 Active Ingredients:
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
- Octyl Salicylate
- Homosalate
- Benzophenone-3
- Ethylhexyl Salicylate
- Denatured Alcohol
- Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate)
- Acrylates/Octylacrylamide Copolymer
- C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
🐾 Tip:
Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen is a standout for its high-level sun protection, vet backing, and ease of use. Whether you’re planning a beach trip or just a sunny walk in the park, this spray helps keep your dog’s skin safe—and their coat in top shape.
Best Spray
Emmy’s Best Pet Products Dog Sun Skin Protector Spray
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Offers full-body sun protection
- ✅ Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula
- ✅ Soothing, moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter
- ✅ Easy spray application—no sticky mess
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ SPF rating not officially confirmed or FDA-approved
🐾 Why It’s a Favorite:
While Epi-Pet takes the top spot overall, Emmy’s Best Dog Sun Spray earns high praise as the best spray formula for dogs, especially for pet owners who want a gentle, easy-to-use option.
With an estimated SPF of 30, this spray provides solid sun protection without compromising on skin health. It’s packed with skin-soothing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil, making it a great choice for dogs with dry or sensitive skin.
Unlike some oily formulas, Emmy’s Sun Spray is non-greasy, so it won’t trap dirt or leave a mess on your dog’s coat. Plus, the wide spray coverage makes it ideal for quick, full-body application before walks, hikes, or playtime in the sun.
🌿 Key Active Ingredient:
- Octinoxate – A commonly used UV filter in human sunscreens, offering protection against harmful sun rays.
☀️ Tip:
Emmy’s Best Sun Skin Protector Spray is a fantastic, easy-to-apply alternative to traditional dog sunscreens. Though it lacks FDA approval, it offers moisturizing, non-greasy sun protection that dog parents love—especially for pups who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Best Budget
Petkin Doggy Sun Stick
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Compact and travel-friendly—fits right in your pocket
- ✅ Budget-friendly sun protection
- ✅ Mineral-based formula that’s safe and gentle
- ✅ Suitable for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Lower SPF (around 15)—not ideal for long sun exposure
- ❌ Not suited for high-sun activities or sensitive-skinned breeds
🐶 Why It’s Worth Packing:
Petkin Doggy Sun Stick is a fan favorite for pet parents who want convenient, mess-free protection on the go. Its gentle, mineral-based formula—with active ingredient titanium dioxide—offers basic defense against sunburn, without any harsh chemicals or sticky residue.
The twist-up stick format makes it super easy to apply to sensitive spots like the nose, ears, and belly. It’s also non-greasy and non-staining, so it won’t leave a mess on fur or fabrics.
However, with an SPF of only 15, it’s best for short outdoor outings or mild sun exposure. Dogs with thin, white, or light-colored fur, or those spending long hours outside, may need a stronger SPF solution.
☀️ Active Ingredient:
- Titanium Dioxide – A natural mineral sunscreen agent that provides physical UV protection.
🐕 Tip:
The Petkin Doggy Sun Stick is a smart, affordable option for everyday protection—especially when you’re on the move. While it may not offer high-level SPF coverage, it’s a safe and easy-to-use choice for casual walks, park visits, or errand runs with your pup.
Best Sun-Block Clothing
PlayaPup Dog Sun Shirt
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Blocks up to 98% of UVA and UVB rays
- ✅ Comfortable, breathable fit with flatlock stitching
- ✅ Affordable for high-performance dog apparel
- ✅ Comes in fun colors and patterns
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Doesn’t protect exposed areas like the face, ears, or legs
🐾 Why It’s a Smart Alternative:
Not every pup loves having sunscreen rubbed into their fur. If your dog resists lotions or sprays, the PlayaPup Sun Shirt offers a brilliant alternative. Made from UPF 50+ fabric, this lightweight shirt is engineered to block 98% of harmful UV rays, helping protect your dog’s back, sides, and belly during sunny outings.
Comfort is a major win here—thanks to flatlock stitching, the shirt minimizes chafing and fits smoothly against your dog’s body, even during active play or long walks.
Available in a wide range of sizes (from XXS to 4XL) and fun, vibrant prints, this sun shirt blends serious protection with playful style.
👩⚕️ Expert Tip:
Veterinary dermatologist Dr. Jeanne Budgin recommends pairing sun-protective clothing with shade accessories like visors or hats to help guard more exposed areas like the face and neck. Consider adding a lightweight canine sun hat for full coverage!
☀️ Additional:
The PlayaPup Sun Shirt is one of the best sun protection solutions for dogs who can’t tolerate sprays or creams. It’s comfortable, cost-effective, and offers excellent UV protection—making it a great addition to any dog’s warm-weather wardrobe.
Best Organic
Sit. Stay. Forever. Sunscreen
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ All-natural, plant-based ingredients
- ✅ Contains SPF-rich oils like carrot seed and raspberry seed
- ✅ Doubles as a moisturizer for dry or irritated skin
- ✅ 100% vegan and cruelty-free
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Higher price for a small container
- ❌ SPF rating not verified
- ❌ Natural oils may not provide clinically proven sun protection
🐾 Why It Stands Out:
If you’re looking for a clean-label, holistic sunscreen for your dog, Sit. Stay. Forever. offers a plant-powered solution that also nourishes the skin. This sunscreen-meets-moisturizer uses a blend of fruit and seed oils—like red raspberry, carrot seed, hemp, and coconut oil—to deliver antioxidant-rich, soothing protection.
Some of these oils (like carrot seed oil) are estimated to have an SPF rating of 35–40, though the product itself doesn’t carry an official SPF certification.
What sets it apart is its commitment to safety: the formula is free from synthetic chemicals, zinc and titanium oxides, and harmful ingredients like benzophenone or oxybenzone—making it a favorite among natural-living pet parents.
🌱 Key Active Ingredients:
- Red Raspberry Seed Oil
- Carrot Seed Oil
- Hemp Seed Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Olive Oil
- Shea Butter
☀️ Tip:
While not FDA-approved or SPF-certified, Sit. Stay. Forever. Dog Sunscreen is a thoughtfully made, natural skincare option that may suit dogs with sensitive skin or allergy concerns. Just keep in mind that it’s best used for light sun exposure or alongside other protective methods like shade or sun-protective clothing.
Best for Noses
Lucky Pup Sunscreen Balm
Credit: Chewy
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Fragrance- and flavor-free—no irritating additives
- ✅ Moisturizes and protects delicate skin
- ✅ Waterproof formula ideal for splashy play
- ✅ Pocket-sized tube for easy, mess-free application
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Requires frequent reapplication, especially during water activities
🐶 Why It’s a Great Pick:
If your dog has a light or pink nose, they’re more prone to sunburn and irritation. Enter the Lucky Pup Sunscreen Balm—a small but mighty sun stick made just for those sensitive snouts. It’s easy to apply, just like human lip balm, and fits right in your pocket or beach bag.
Formulated with natural moisturizers like beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, this balm not only shields against UVA/UVB rays (thanks to titanium dioxide) but also soothes and hydrates dry skin. It’s waterproof and goes on clear—no mess, no stains.
Perfect for noses, elbows, and paws, this balm is manufactured in Colorado with care and without any artificial fragrances or flavors.
🌿 Key Active Ingredients:
- Beeswax
- Shea Butter
- Coconut Oil
- Lanolin
- Aloe Oil
- Titanium Dioxide
- Vitamin E
☀️ Tip:
Lucky Pup Sunscreen Balm is a smart, affordable choice for targeted sun protection, especially for dogs with sensitive noses or exposed skin. While its SPF 10 requires more frequent reapplication, its clean ingredients and waterproof formula make it a go-to for short sunny walks or trips to the lake.
Best Aloe Spray
Banana Boat After Sun Aloe Spray
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Provides effective relief for dry, sun-exposed skin
- ✅ Doubles as a hydrating nose spray
- ✅ Suitable for all dog breeds and ages
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Not intended for human use
🐶 Why It’s a Must-Have:
If you accidentally miss applying sunscreen before heading out, Banana Boat’s After Sun Hydrating Aloe Spray is a great backup to soothe your pup’s skin. Made by a trusted skincare brand, this spray harnesses the natural cooling and healing power of aloe vera to calm irritated, sun-damaged skin.
Use it on your dog’s belly, paws, face, or any area that looks dry or red. It’s especially helpful for pups with dry noses, acting as a gentle moisture barrier to protect and soften sensitive skin.
🌿 Key Ingredients:
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera)
- Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate)
🐾 Tip:
While not a sunscreen, this Banana Boat After Sun Spray is an excellent aftercare product to keep on hand for your dog’s outdoor adventures. It’s soothing, hydrating, and safe for everyday use, helping your furry friend recover comfortably from sun exposure.
Best Sun-Blocking Tank Top
Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee
Credit: Amazon
✅ What We Like:
- ✅ Proven UV-blocking fabric for effective sun protection
- ✅ Made with eco-friendly, recycled materials
- ✅ Machine-washable and durable
- ✅ Available in a wide range of sizes to fit small to large breeds
❌ What We Don’t Like:
- ❌ Sizing can be tricky—runs small for some breeds
- ❌ Doesn’t cover all areas—additional sunscreen needed for face and rear
🐕 Why It’s a Great Choice:
The Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee offers a practical, comfortable way to protect your dog from harmful UV rays without the fuss of sprays or lotions. Crafted from soft, recycled polyester with a four-way stretch, this sleeveless tank fits snugly while allowing plenty of movement—even on hot days.
Unlike some sun-protective clothing, this tee is free from chemical treatments, so its UV-blocking power won’t wash out after multiple cycles. It extends up over the neck, providing extra coverage where your dog needs it most.
Sizing varies, especially for small breeds with unique body shapes—our test on an eight-pound Pomeranian showed a size 12 fit better than a size 10. Be sure to measure carefully and consider that you’ll likely still need sunscreen for exposed areas like the face and hindquarters.
🌿 Key Features:
- Physical UV blocker fabric (UPF)
- Machine washable
- Sizes range from 2 to 30
🐾 Tip:
For active pups who need reliable sun protection in a lightweight, eco-conscious design, the Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee is an excellent option. Just pair it with targeted sunscreen to keep your dog safe from head to tail.
Final Verdict:
When it comes to finding the best all-around dog sunscreen, Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen stands out as the clear winner. Thanks to its FDA approval, strong SPF 30 rating, and easy application, it offers the most reliable sun protection for your furry friend. It’s a favorite among vets and pet owners alike for good reason.
That said, Emmy’s Sun Skin Protector Spray is a close runner-up, especially for pet parents looking for a sunscreen that blends natural moisturizing ingredients with solid sun protection. While it’s not FDA-approved, it offers an estimated SPF of around 30 and contains nourishing oils like shea butter and coconut oil, making it a great option for those who prefer a more natural formula.
What to Look for in a Dog Sunscreen
How to Apply Sunscreen to Your Dog
Applying sunscreen to your dog is similar to applying it to yourself. Focus on vulnerable areas such as the underbelly, thighs, belly, armpits, nose, and muzzle—these spots get the most sun exposure. It’s important to keep your dog calm and still for about 10 minutes after application to prevent them from licking it off.
Many pet owners prefer sprays because they are less likely to irritate pets and harder for dogs to lick off. Always check that the product is safe for ingestion since dogs tend to lick their skin.
Why Dogs Need Sunscreen
Like humans, dogs can suffer from solar dermatitis and skin cancers caused by prolonged sun exposure. Sunscreen not only reduces these risks but can also improve your dog’s skin and coat health. Dogs with light-colored fur, thin coats, or hairless breeds are especially vulnerable and should have extra sun protection.
Ingredients to Avoid
Human sunscreens often contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). These can cause anything from mild digestive upset to serious health issues if ingested. Dogs will lick sunscreen, so it’s crucial to choose products formulated specifically for pets, free of harmful chemicals and essential oils that might be toxic.
Strength and SPF Ratings
A strong SPF and UVA/UVB protection are essential, but most dog sunscreens aren’t FDA-approved, meaning their SPF ratings are estimates rather than official measurements. The Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen is the only product on this list with a verified SPF 30 rating, making it the safest choice when it comes to effective sun protection.
Remember, some high-SPF ingredients can be harmful to dogs, so always check the formulation carefully before choosing a product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to put sunscreen on my dog?
Absolutely. Sunscreen protects your dog from serious skin problems like cancer and solar dermatitis. For outdoor adventures—especially long beach days or hikes—it’s a must-have in your dog’s care kit.
Can I use regular human sunscreen on my dog?
No! Human sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide and PABA that are toxic to dogs if ingested. Since dogs tend to lick sunscreen off their skin, you should only use products made specifically for dogs that are safe and non-toxic.
What should I do if my dog eats sunscreen?
Dog-specific sunscreens are formulated to be non-toxic if licked or ingested in small amounts, so there’s usually no cause for concern. However, if your dog eats human sunscreen, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration, and contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline immediately if these occur.