Hot Dogs: Why Your Pup Loves Sunbathing

Content reviewed by Nell Ostermeier, D.V.M., CVA, FAAVA.

Picture this: You're cozy inside, maybe sipping on your favorite beverage, when you glance out the window. There, sprawled out on the patio like it's their personal tanning bed, is your dog. Whether it's the height of summer or a crisp autumn day, your pup seems to have an uncanny ability to find that perfect sunbeam. What gives? Are they secretly solar-powered? Well, not quite, but there's more to this canine sun worship than meets the eye.

The doggy solar panel effect

Let's get one thing straight – our soulful sidekicks aren't just lazy daisies soaking up the sun. According to Figo vet spokesperson Nell Ostermeier, DVM, CVA, FAAVA, there's a method to their light-loving madness. "Dogs lay in the sun because it's comforting and can help relax muscles and decrease joint pain." Dogs: they're just like us!

And there's more. Your pup might also be channeling their inner wolf. "They may seek the sun instinctually to use its warmth to keep their temperature near their normal average level of 101.5°F," Ostermeier adds. So next time you see Fido sunbathing, just remember – he's not slacking, he's thermoregulating!

Are some dogs more sun-obsessed than others?

You might think certain breeds are more prone to sun-worshipping, like Chihuahuas trying to channel their heat-loving roots or Huskies ironically rebelling against their arctic heritage. But here's the truth: "While there are certain breeds that are more predisposed to sunburn, almost all dogs enjoy lounging in the sun. It is typically an individual preference," Ostermeier explains.

Spend any time in the dog-loving corners of social media, and you might get a different impression. Many breed-specific accounts swear that sunbathing is a unique trait exclusive to them. As the proud mom of an American Bully, I've been guilty of this myself - I've lost count of how many "Pitty potato baking in the sun" videos I've saved.

Ultimately, whether you've got a Pug or a Poodle, a Mastiff or a Maltese, chances are they're all secret sun-seekers. Just remember to keep an eye on their tanning time, because unlike you, they can't reapply sunscreen every hour.

When sun worship goes too far

Before you start thinking your dog's sunbathing habit is pure indulgence, there are actually some health perks to this solar-powered relaxation technique. "Sunbathing is relaxing and can help reduce stress, muscle tension, and joint pain," our vet spokesperson reveals.

So the next time you see your arthritic old boy sprawled out in a sunbeam, just know he's basically getting a free massage from Mother Nature.

But like that friend who always overdoes it at the beach and turns into a lobster, dogs can also get too much of a good thing. Our vet warns, "Prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn which can be mild redness to severe ulceration and burns requiring medical treatments."

And it gets worse. "Extreme heat and exposure can also lead to dehydration and heat stroke, which are medical emergencies. Too much sun exposure over time can lead to skin cancers as well." Yikes. Suddenly that adorable sunbathing habit is looking a little less cute, huh?

Sun sensitivity in dogs

Just like how your pasty friend might burn after five minutes in the sun while you tan like a champ, dogs have different levels of sun sensitivity. "Dogs with light skin and short, thin hair coats are most sensitive to sunburns," Nell explains. "Any area on a dog that lacks hair or pigment will be most affected."

If your dog is rocking a buzz cut or has those adorable pink belly spots, be extra vigilant. The most vulnerable areas? "The most common areas for decrease hair or lack of pigment can be ear tips, nose, skin around the eyes, and the abdomen." In other words, all the cutest parts. Life's not fair, is it?

Creating a canine sun haven

Don't worry, you don't have to ban your dog from the outdoors forever. Our vet has some tips for creating safe sunbathing spaces:

1. If they have areas that are hairless or exposed be sure to apply sunscreen or consider UV protective clothing. Yes, doggy sunscreen and sun shirts are a thing, and we love it!

2. There should be a spot in the yard for them to rest out of the direct sun AKA a doggy cabana.

3. Pet parents should monitor their dog's time in the sun as some will not self-regulate. That's what we're there for (though they probably see us as spoiling the sun fun).

The bottom line

At the end of the day, a little sun worship can be good for your furry friend. It helps them relax, eases their aches and pains, and lets them indulge their inner wolf.

But like all good things in life, moderation is key. Keep an eye on your pup's sun time, set up some shady spots, and maybe invest in some doggy sunscreen. Because the only hot dogs we want to see are the ones on the grill, not the ones panting in your backyard.

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.