Most dogs like lying in the sun and appear to prefer a sunny spot in the house or garden. Have you ever thought about why dogs enjoy sunbathing? Or whether it's safe for your dog to be out in the sun?
While we can't read their minds, we can surmise that dogs sunbathe for the same reason we do: it feels great to relax in the sun. Dogs seem to enjoy the warm, soothing sensation of sunlight on their skin.
Sunlight aids in the regulation of a dog's circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels rise in response to darkness, indicating that it is time for a dog to sleep, and fall in response to light, indicating that it is time for a dog to awaken.
Despite the fact that vitamin D has been termed "the sunshine vitamin," dogs, unlike humans and many other animals, do not require it. are ineffective in synthesizing it in their skin as a result of sun exposure.
UV radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, especially in regions where a dog's coat is thin, such as around the nose, ears, and eyes. White-coated dogs with unpigmented skin are particularly vulnerable.
Excessive sun exposure in dogs might result in skin cancer. Some types of skin tumors, such as hemangiomas, hemangiosarcomas, and squamous cell carcinomas, have been linked to UV radiation exposure.
On hot days, it is possible for dogs to overheat if they are permitted to sunbathe for an extended period of time; nevertheless, the vast majority of dogs will naturally move out of the sun when they begin to feel too hot.
Heat stroke is especially dangerous in brachycephalic (flat-faced dog breeds). These breeds have a problem known as brachycephalic airway syndrome. Affected dogs have difficulty breathing and cannot effectively cool themselves.
Even if they have access to shady areas, brachycephalic dogs should never be left outside on a hot day. Heat stroke is also more likely in overweight dogs, canines with thick coats, and large breeds.