🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Maltese Dog Sunscreen Guide: Top 5 Picks for Every Budget

Maltese dogs have a single coat of fine white hair and sensitive pink skin, making them prone to sunburn. Protect your pup with the best sunscreens, including our top pick, Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Maltese breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30 ★ Top Pick: Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30 Check Price on Amazon →
SPF 15+
Minimum recommended SPF for dogs
30
Minutes before sun exposure to apply
2 hours
Reapplication interval for water-resistant formulas
5%
Approximate body surface area needing protection on a Maltese
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30. This spray offers SPF 30 protection and is safe for dogs if licked.
  • Best Budget: Burt's Bees Water Resistant Dog Sunscreen SPF 15. Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, this sunscreen is gentle on.
  • Best for Sensitive Skin: My Dog Nose It Sunscreen Stick SPF 15. This unscented stick is designed specifically for noses and ears, perfect for a Maltese's.
  • Best for Active Dogs: Vet's Best Dog Sunscreen Spray SPF 15. This water-resistant spray provides broad-spectrum protection and includes soothing aloe.
  • Best for Easy Application: Sunnyside Dog Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30. These pre-moistened wipes make application stress-free and mess-free, ideal for a squirmy.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30 Best Overall Check price →
Burt's Bees Water Resistant Dog Sunscreen SPF… Best Budget Check price →
My Dog Nose It Sunscreen Stick SPF 15 Best for Sensitive Skin Check price →
Vet's Best Dog Sunscreen Spray SPF 15 Best for Active Dogs Check price →
Sunnyside Dog Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30 Best for Easy Application Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is the Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray for its safe, non-greasy formula that dries clear on white fur. For a budget-friendly option, Burt’s Bees Water Resistant Dog Sunscreen offers natural ingredients and easy application. If your Maltese has very sensitive skin, My Dog Nose It Sunscreen Stick is a gentle, fragrance-free choice.

What to consider for Dog Sunscreen For Maltese Dogs

Maltese dogs have a single coat of fine, white hair and sensitive skin that is prone to sunburn, especially on the nose, ears, and belly. Their light coat offers little UV protection, so a dog-specific sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 is essential. Look for products that are fragrance-free and safe if licked, as Maltese often groom themselves. Avoid zinc oxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which can be toxic if ingested. Water-resistant formulas are helpful for outdoor play.

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

For a sunscreen, choose a product designed for dogs with a pH balanced for canine skin. It should be non-staining and dry clear to avoid yellowing white fur. Ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E soothe sensitive skin. The application method matters: sprays are quick for body coverage, while sticks are precise for the nose and ears. Avoid products with strong fragrances that may irritate. For nervous Maltese, a gentle, quiet application (like a stick) can reduce stress.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient safety for dogs, avoiding toxic sunscreens like zinc oxide and PABA.
  • Checked for non-staining formulas that won’t discolor white Maltese coats.
  • Preferred products with SPF 15 or higher for adequate protection.
  • Considered ease of application for small, wiggly dogs.
  • Read verified customer reviews focusing on Maltese owners’ experiences.
  • Selected a range of price points to fit different budgets.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Human sunscreen: contains ingredients like oxybenzone that can be toxic to dogs and has a different pH.
  • Harsh fragrances: can irritate a Maltese’s sensitive skin and cause allergic reactions.
  • Zinc oxide and PABA: common in human sunscreens but dangerous if licked.
  • Sprays with alcohol: can dry out skin and cause stinging on sunburned areas.

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

Why this matters

Maltese dogs have a single coat of fine white hair and sensitive pink skin, making them highly susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. A dog-specific sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher is essential for any outdoor activity.

The Options

Types Explained

Spray Sunscreen

Aerosol or pump spray that covers large areas quickly. Best for full-body application but can be startling for nervous dogs.

Best for: Active dogs needing quick, even coverage

Stick Sunscreen

Solid stick for precise application on sensitive areas like nose, ears, and paw pads. Less messy but not ideal for large areas.

Best for: Targeted protection on small, sensitive spots

Lotion Sunscreen

Creamy lotion that requires rubbing in. Provides thorough coverage but can be thick on fine coats.

Best for: Owners who prefer manual application and control

Sunscreen Wipes

Pre-moistened towelettes for easy, no-mess application. Great for travel but may dry out and offer less consistent coverage.

Best for: Quick touch-ups and on-the-go use
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30
Best Overall

Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray SPF 30

View on Amazon

This spray offers SPF 30 protection and is safe for dogs if licked. It dries clear and won't stain white Maltese fur. The non-greasy formula is easy to apply, though the spray nozzle can be less precise for small areas like the nose. It's a reliable choice for full-body coverage.

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#2
Burt's Bees Water Resistant Dog Sunscreen SPF 15
Best Budget

Burt's Bees Water Resistant Dog Sunscreen SPF 15

View on Amazon

Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, this sunscreen is gentle on sensitive skin. It's water-resistant and affordable, but the lotion consistency can be thick to spread on fine Maltese fur. It works well for quick applications but may require rubbing in.

Check Price on Amazon →
#3
My Dog Nose It Sunscreen Stick SPF 15
Best for Sensitive Skin

My Dog Nose It Sunscreen Stick SPF 15

View on Amazon

This unscented stick is designed specifically for noses and ears, perfect for a Maltese's delicate areas. It's fragrance-free and contains only a few natural ingredients, reducing irritation risk. The stick format is precise, but coverage for larger body areas is impractical.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
Vet's Best Dog Sunscreen Spray SPF 15
Best for Active Dogs

Vet's Best Dog Sunscreen Spray SPF 15

View on Amazon

This water-resistant spray provides broad-spectrum protection and includes soothing aloe. It's easy to apply on the go, but the spray can be startling for nervous dogs. The light formula doesn't leave residue, though reapplication is needed after swimming.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Sunnyside Dog Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30
Best for Easy Application

Sunnyside Dog Sunscreen Wipes SPF 30

View on Amazon

These pre-moistened wipes make application stress-free and mess-free, ideal for a squirmy Maltese. Each wipe covers a good area and provides SPF 30. However, the wipes can dry out if not sealed properly, and they may not be as cost-effective as sprays.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

SPF Level

Choose SPF 15 or higher for adequate protection. Maltese with very light skin may benefit from SPF 30.

02

Ingredients

Avoid zinc oxide and PABA. Look for dog-safe UV blockers like octisalate or avobenzone. Natural ingredients like aloe and vitamin E are soothing.

03

Application Method

Sprays cover large areas quickly but can be messy. Sticks are precise for nose and ears. Wipes are convenient but may not provide even coverage.

04

Water Resistance

If your Maltese swims or gets wet, choose a water-resistant formula that lasts at least 40 minutes.

05

Stain Potential

White fur can yellow with some sunscreens. Look for non-staining, clear-drying products to keep the coat bright.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

How to Apply Sunscreen

Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure. Focus on the nose, ear tips, belly, and any areas with thin hair. Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming. Use a small amount and rub in gently to avoid ingestion.

Choosing the Right SPF

SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 blocks 97%. For Maltese with very light skin or a history of sunburn, opt for SPF 30. Higher SPFs offer marginal extra protection.

Signs of Sunburn

Redness, tenderness, or peeling on the nose, ears, or belly. If you notice these, move your dog indoors and apply a cool compress. Consult a vet if severe. Prevention with sunscreen is key.

Pro tip

Apply sunscreen to your Maltese's nose and ear tips using a stick sunscreen for precise, mess-free application, and use a spray for the body to save time.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I apply sunscreen to my Maltese?
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, or more often if your dog swims or rubs against surfaces. For prolonged sun exposure, reapply after towel drying. Maltese with white coats burn easily, so be diligent during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Can I use human sunscreen on my Maltese?
No, human sunscreen often contains ingredients like zinc oxide or oxybenzone that are toxic to dogs if ingested. It also has a different pH that can irritate canine skin. Always use a dog-specific sunscreen formulated to be safe if licked.
What SPF is best for a Maltese?
SPF 15 is the minimum recommended for dogs, but SPF 30 offers better protection for light-coated breeds like the Maltese. Higher SPF values provide only slightly more protection. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Are there natural alternatives to chemical sunscreen for dogs?
Some natural sunscreens use titanium dioxide as a physical blocker, but it can be white and pasty on fur. However, ensure it's non-nano to avoid inhalation. Always check that the product is labeled safe for dogs and free of toxic ingredients.
How do I apply sunscreen to a squirmy Maltese?
Use a stick sunscreen for precise application on the nose and ears, or try wipes for a less messy experience. Distract your dog with treats and apply calmly. For sprays, mist from a distance and rub in quickly. Practice during calm moments to build tolerance.
Can Maltese dogs get sunburned through their fur?
Yes, Maltese have a single coat of fine hair that offers little UV protection, especially on areas with thin fur like the belly, inner thighs, and ear tips. Their pink skin underneath is prone to sunburn, so sunscreen is essential for any sun exposure.
What ingredients should I avoid in dog sunscreen?
Avoid zinc oxide, PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid), and salicylates, which can be toxic if ingested. Also avoid fragrances and alcohol, which can irritate sensitive skin. Look for dog-safe UV filters like octisalate, octocrylene, or avobenzone.
Is it safe for my Maltese to lick sunscreen?
Dog sunscreens are formulated to be safe if licked in small amounts, but ingestion should still be minimized. Apply a thin layer and allow it to dry before your dog can lick. If your dog licks excessively, distract with a toy or treat.
Do I need sunscreen for my Maltese on cloudy days?
Yes, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, so sunscreen is still necessary on overcast days. Snow and water can also reflect UV rays, increasing exposure. Make sunscreen a habit whenever your Maltese goes outside.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog 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.