A dog lying in the sun can be such a cozy sight. Yet, you may wonder if your dog gets too hot sunbathing. Why do dogs lie in the sun anyway?
Sunbathing is a great way for dogs to keep warm, balance their circadian rhythm, initiate shedding, and regulate estrus cycles. Read on to learn more about the benefits your dog receives from lying in the sun and how to prevent skin irritation.
Dogs Lie in the Sun for Warmth
The most common reason your dog lies in the sun is to get warm. You probably often see your dog lying next to a sunny window on cooler days. They may also seek out the sun’s warmth on cooler days if you walk them in the early morning or evening.
If your dog sunbathes on warm days, be sure to provide shade and plenty of water to prevent heatstroke. Some symptoms of this life-threatening condition include vomiting, blue gums, and/or seizures. Heatstroke needs emergency medical treatment as soon as you recognize the symptoms.
Sunbathing Helps Regulate Dog Sleep Cycles
Circadian rhythms (or a dog’s natural wake and sleep cycle) are affected by sunlight. Light enters the eyes and triggers responses in your dog’s body. In the morning, the light encourages your dog to be more alert and energetic. In low light during the evening, the body responds by producing more melatonin to help your dog sleep.
Sunbathing may help your dog to regulate their sleep cycle. A healthy sleep cycle affects every aspect of your dog’s body, including metabolism and brain functioning.
Sunbathing Aides With Dog Shedding
Sunlight can trigger shedding cycles in long-haired or double-coated dog breeds. But why? Sunlight affects hormones in your dog’s body. As days become longer during the spring and summer months, you’ll begin to notice your dog shedding more. This is also known as “blowing coat.”
Your dog may naturally gravitate toward sunny spots during these transitions to help shed their coats. You can also help manage your dog’s shedding by regularly brushing them with a specific type of comb. You can also have them groomed by a professional.
Being in the Sun Regulates Estrus Cycles
Another benefit of sunbathing for unspayed dogs is that it helps to regulate estrus cycles. Estrus cycles in dogs, also known as heat, happen about twice a year for two to three weeks. If you are trying to ethically breed your dog, it is important that she has a healthy, predictable cycle to increase the chances of successful fertilization.
A female dog may gravitate toward sunny locations to regulate her hormone levels. Sunlight deprivation, among other things, can “throw off” a dog’s estrus cycle, leading to various complications down the road.
Lying in the Sun is Relaxing
Have you ever laid out on the beach or enjoyed a picnic in the park? It’s pretty relaxing. Dogs hope to achieve a similar state of mind by sunbathing. It has been shown to increase serotonin production, which boosts your dog’s mood and calms anxiety. If you have a dog that struggles with separation anxiety or another common behavioral problem, spend time with them outdoors. The sunlight could work to promote their mental health and increase your bond.
Do Dogs Get Sunburns?
As with humans, dogs also have risks of overexposure to sunlight. Certain breeds with little, short, or light-colored hair are more likely to develop sunburns than other breeds. These include:
- Xoloitzcuintl
- American Hairless Terriers
- Collies
- Dalmatians
- Peruvian Inca Orchids
- Bulldogs
- Whippets
Sunburn symptoms include red, dry, or cracked skin. Most sunburns heal on their own, but if your dog has blisters or open sores, take them to the vet.
The best way to prevent your dog from getting sunburnt is to apply pet-safe sunscreen to various parts of their body, such as their snout, elbows, and underbelly. You can also have them wear protective pet clothing (such as a sweater), walk them in shady areas, or take your dog outside during times when the sun is not as strong.
For dogs who love sunbathing near windows, try putting up solar shades to block out harmful UV rays.
What to Know About Excessive Sunbathing
If your dog participates in excessive sunbathing, gets frequent sunburns, or is a breed at risk of sunburns, he may be more prone to developing different types of cancer. Skin cancer is often caused by sun exposure.
There are a few different types of skin cancers dogs can get, such as malignant melanoma, that affects the pigment cells of dog skin. Another type is called squamous cell carcinoma. This cancer affects the squamous cells, which are in the skin. The final type is mast cell tumors. These occur in the mast cells of the immune system.
Older dogs are more likely to develop cancer. Short-coated dogs with light skin are prone to developing squamous cell carcinomas. If you’re concerned about your dog developing cancer or another life-threatening health condition, ask your vet questions about preventative measures.
Sunbathing Offers Dogs Many Benefits
A dog is naturally driven to lie in the sun to warm up, balance their sleep cycle, encourage shedding, regulate reproductive cycles, and relax. However, it is important to practice sun safety, especially if you have a dog with short hair and light skin. Overexposure to sunlight can cause sunburn and may lead to more serious conditions. It is best to always provide a dog with adequate shade and water anytime they spend long periods outside in the sun.
