🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Buy the Best Sunscreen for Australian Shepherds: 5 Picks

Protect your Aussie with pink or white markings from sunburn and skin cancer. We compare 5 top sunscreens including Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Australian Shepherd breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray ★ Top Pick: Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray Check Price on Amazon →
SPF 15+
Minimum recommended SPF for dogs
2 hours
Typical water resistance duration
10-15%
Australian Shepherds with pink skin
1 in 3
Dogs get sunburned on ears and nose
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray. This is the only FDA-compliant dog sunscreen on the market, offering proven broad-spectrum.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: Burt's Bees All Natural Sunscreen for Dogs. Made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and coconut oil, this sunscreen is gentle on.
  • Best Budget: Sun Science SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen. An affordable option that provides SPF 15 protection with zinc oxide.
  • Best for On-the-Go: Petkin SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen Wipes. These wipes are convenient for quick application on specific areas like the nose and ears.
  • Best for Nose and Ears: My Dog Nose It! Sun Protection for Dogs. Specifically designed for sensitive areas, this stick sunscreen is easy to apply and stays.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray Best Overall Check price →
Burt's Bees All Natural Sunscreen for Dogs Best for Sensitive Skin Check price →
Sun Science SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen Best Budget Check price →
Petkin SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen Wipes Best for On-the-Go Check price →
My Dog Nose It! Sun Protection for Dogs Best for Nose and Ears Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray, the only FDA-compliant dog sunscreen proven to block UVA and UVB rays. It’s water-resistant and safe for dogs who lick. For Australian Shepherds with sensitive skin, Burt’s Bees All Natural Sunscreen offers a gentle, plant-based formula. If you need a budget option, Sun Science SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen provides reliable protection without breaking the bank.

What to consider for Dog Sunscreen For Australian Shepherds

Australian Shepherds have a double coat that can make sunscreen application tricky. The outer coat repels water, so you need a sunscreen that penetrates the top layer to reach the skin. Focus on areas with less fur: the nose, ears, belly, and inner thighs. Also, many Australian Shepherds have pink or white patches that are more prone to sunburn. Choose a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, but ensure it’s specifically formulated for dogs, as some human sunscreens contain ingredients toxic to pets. Avoid products with fragrances, as they can irritate sensitive skin. Finally, consider a spray sunscreen for easier application through the coat.

What to look for in a grooming product (shampoo, brush, clipper or wipe)

For Australian Shepherds, choose a sunscreen that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to avoid skin irritation. Look for a product with a high SPF (at least 15) and broad-spectrum protection. The sunscreen should be water-resistant to withstand outdoor activities. For application, a spray or lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue is ideal. Avoid sunscreens with PABA, parabens, or artificial colors. Also, consider the dog’s activity level: if they swim or roll in grass, a waterproof formula is essential. Finally, check the ingredients for dog-safe active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and avoid those with oxybenzone or octinoxate.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient safety using veterinary dermatology guidelines
  • Checked for SPF and broad-spectrum protection claims
  • Considered ease of application for double-coated breeds
  • Reviewed customer feedback for effectiveness and skin reactions
  • Prioritized products with no harmful additives like fragrances or alcohol
  • Included options at different price points
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Human sunscreen: contains ingredients like oxybenzone that are toxic to dogs if ingested
  • Zinc oxide in high concentrations: can cause gastrointestinal upset if licked, but small amounts are safe
  • Fragranced sunscreens: can irritate a dog’s sensitive skin and attract insects
  • Spray sunscreens with alcohol: can dry out the skin and cause stinging
  • Products without a clear SPF rating: may not provide adequate protection

For more grooming tips, check out our dog guides and dog care products and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Australian Shepherds with pink or white markings are at higher risk for sunburn and skin cancer, making sunscreen a crucial part of their care, especially during summer months.

The Options

Types Explained

Spray Sunscreen

Easy to apply on large areas and through thick fur. Can be less precise and may require rubbing in.

Best for: Full-body coverage on active dogs

Lotion Sunscreen

Thicker consistency that stays put. Ideal for targeted application on sensitive spots.

Best for: Nose, ears, and belly

Sunscreen Wipes

Pre-moistened wipes for quick, no-mess application. Convenient for on-the-go use.

Best for: Short trips and touch-ups

Sunscreen Stick

Solid stick that glides on easily. Great for precise application on small areas.

Best for: Nose and paw pads
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray
Best Overall

Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray

View on Amazon

This is the only FDA-compliant dog sunscreen on the market, offering proven broad-spectrum protection. It's water-resistant and safe if licked. However, the spray nozzle can sometimes clog, and the price is higher than some alternatives.

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#2
Burt's Bees All Natural Sunscreen for Dogs
Best for Sensitive Skin

Burt's Bees All Natural Sunscreen for Dogs

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Made with natural ingredients like zinc oxide and coconut oil, this sunscreen is gentle on sensitive skin. It's free of fragrances and harsh chemicals. The main downside is that it's not water-resistant, so reapplication is needed after swimming.

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#3
Sun Science SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen
Best Budget

Sun Science SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen

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An affordable option that provides SPF 15 protection with zinc oxide. It's easy to apply and has a non-greasy formula. However, it may require frequent reapplication, and some dogs may not like the scent.

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#4
Petkin SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen Wipes
Best for On-the-Go

Petkin SPF 15 Dog Sunscreen Wipes

View on Amazon

These wipes are convenient for quick application on specific areas like the nose and ears. They are alcohol-free and gentle. The trade-off is that they may not provide full-body coverage for long outdoor sessions.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
My Dog Nose It! Sun Protection for Dogs
Best for Nose and Ears

My Dog Nose It! Sun Protection for Dogs

View on Amazon

Specifically designed for sensitive areas, this stick sunscreen is easy to apply and stays put. It contains natural ingredients like shea butter. The limitation is that it's not ideal for large body areas, and the stick can melt in heat.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

SPF Level

Look for SPF 15 or higher for adequate protection. Higher SPF values offer more protection but may be thicker.

02

Broad-Spectrum Protection

Ensure the sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays. UVA causes aging, UVB causes burning.

03

Water Resistance

Australian Shepherds love water. Choose a water-resistant formula that lasts at least 40 minutes during swimming.

04

Ingredients

Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, and PABA. Safe ingredients include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Check for non-toxic labels.

05

Application Method

Sprays work well for double coats, but lotions allow precise application. Wipes are great for touch-ups. Consider your dog's tolerance.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Apply Before Sun Exposure

Apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb. Focus on areas with thin fur: nose, ears, belly, and inner thighs. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming.

Test for Allergies

Before full use, apply a small amount on a patch of skin and wait 24 hours to check for any reaction. This is especially important for Australian Shepherds with sensitive skin.

Combine with Other Protection

Use sunscreen alongside other measures like providing shade, avoiding peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and using UV-protective clothing for dogs.

Pro tip

Apply sunscreen to your Australian Shepherd's belly and inner thighs, as these areas are often exposed when they lie down and have thinner fur.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I apply sunscreen to my Australian Shepherd?
Apply sunscreen every 2 hours when your dog is outdoors, or more frequently if they are swimming or sweating. Reapply immediately after toweling off. For all-day outings, set a timer to remind yourself. Remember that even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate and cause sunburn.
Can I use human sunscreen on my Australian Shepherd?
No, human sunscreen often contains ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, and fragrances that are toxic to dogs if ingested or absorbed. Dogs lick their skin, so ingestion is likely. Always use a sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs, which uses safe ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
What SPF is best for Australian Shepherds?
SPF 15 to 30 is recommended for dogs. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 blocks about 97%. Higher SPF values offer marginal additional protection. For Australian Shepherds with light skin or thin fur, SPF 30 is a good choice. Ensure the product is broad-spectrum.
Do Australian Shepherds need sunscreen if they have a double coat?
Yes, despite their double coat, Australian Shepherds can get sunburned on areas with less fur, such as the nose, ears, belly, and inner thighs. Dogs with pink or white skin are especially vulnerable. The coat provides some protection but not enough for prolonged sun exposure.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog sunscreen?
Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. These can cause skin irritation or be toxic if licked. Safe ingredients include non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Always check the label for dog-specific safety.
Can sunscreen cause skin irritation in Australian Shepherds?
Some dogs may experience mild irritation from certain ingredients, especially if they have sensitive skin. To minimize risk, choose a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula. Perform a patch test before full application. If redness or itching occurs, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Is it safe for my Australian Shepherd to lick sunscreen?
Dog-safe sunscreens are formulated to be non-toxic if licked in small amounts. However, excessive ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset. To reduce licking, apply sunscreen and distract your dog with a treat or toy until it dries. If your dog licks excessively, consider a bitter-tasting sunscreen.
How do I apply sunscreen to a double-coated dog like an Australian Shepherd?
Part the fur to expose the skin, especially on the nose, ears, and belly. Use a spray or lotion and rub it in thoroughly. For the body, a spray sunscreen can be applied directly, then massaged into the coat. Focus on areas where the skin is visible. Reapply after swimming.
What other sun protection measures can I take for my Australian Shepherd?
Provide shade with a canopy or umbrella, avoid outdoor activities during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and consider UV-protective dog clothing or a hat. For dogs with light skin, keep them indoors during the hottest part of the day. Always have fresh water available.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.