The Best Sun Protection Clothing for Dogs

It's hot out there now, and we're seeing sun in the sky more often now. Taking a walk with a dog in the late spring and summertime is fun, but you need to be careful if you take your pooch out under afternoon's sun because the UV rays can harm the dog’s skin.

Many pet owners assume that dogs being dogs, and coming from the wild, don't really need any protection, neither from the sun, rain, snow or other elements. That is, sadly, not true – and dogs can greatly benefit from protection, which ensures better skin, better health and longer lifespan.

There are several ways to protect your pooch from the harm of sun and UV rays. The most obvious one are dog-friendly sunscreens, which are great for spending long time in the sun (such as on the beach). There are also many clothing pieces for dogs that can protect him from the harmful sun rays and we have chosen a few of our favorites for you.

1. Canine Friendly Solis Sun Protection Dog Shirt

This dog shirt comes with the UPF protection of 40+, which means that it only lets through 1/40th of the sun rays to get to your dog’s skin.

Canine Friendly 66705008 Solis UV Sun Protection...
167 Reviews
Canine Friendly 66705008 Solis UV Sun Protection...
  • UPF Protection of 40+
  • Convenient leash access port
  • Stretchy 4-way UV protected...
  • Quick-drying fabric
  • Size Large has a Length of 21"...

It is made of a stretchy, UV-protected fabric, which also provides for a quick drying if the shirt gets wet. You can put this shirt and take it off your pooch easily. It also comes with convenient leash access.

The design is pretty simple but unimaginative and you can only get this item in two colors. However, you will surely be able to find the right size for your pooch because this shirt is available in 7 different sizes.

 

2. EzyDog Rashguard

One of the more recognizable brands, EzyDog has made a fantastic and very versatile dog UV protection vest/rashguard.

EzyDog Rashguard Vest - Premium Dog Shirt Allowing...
184 Reviews
EzyDog Rashguard Vest - Premium Dog Shirt Allowing...
  • THE BEST SUN SHIRT FOR YOUR...
  • DESIGNED AND TESTED TO PROVIDE...
  • COMFORTABLE FORM FITTING...
  • ENGINEERED FOR ALL-DAY WATER...
  • MULTIPLE SIZE OPTIONS - We...

This durable water vest is not the most appealing choice on our list when it comes to looks. However, what it lacks in style it certainly makes up in the protection department. It is also available in multiple size options.

Like most of the other items on our list, this vest also comes with a 50+ UPF protection rating. The fabric used to make this shirt is fast-drying, easy to wash and odor-resistant. It will also increase your dog’s visibility because it has a highly reflective design.

 

3. SILD Pet Clothes Dog UV Protection Safety Jacket

This vest or safety jacket is one of the best options when it comes to sun protection for your pooch.

SILD Pet Life Jacket Size Adjustable Dog Lifesaver...
51 Reviews
SILD Pet Life Jacket Size Adjustable Dog Lifesaver...
  • We all dress up for ourselves....
  • Dogs can swim, but there are...
  • All pups are unique and...
  • The dog life vest has the...
  • We guarantees against defects...

It is made of high-quality PU and it is very comfortable, as long as you find the right size. This shouldn’t be a problem since this clothing item comes in 6 different sizes. It also comes in 5 different colors so you can choose the one that will look best on your pooch.

The reflective design will keep your pooch safe at night as well. The design is attractive and practical because Velcro makes this vest easy to put on and take off. The back of this vest is UV-resistant, while the belly area is made of mesh to make the jacket more breathable.

 

4. Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee

If you are looking for an affordable option that will provide protection to your pooch in the summertime, this dog tee is a perfect choice. It has the UPF protection rating of 50+, which is more than enough to protect him.

Sale
Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee – T-Shirt for...
875 Reviews
Gold Paw Sun Shield Dog Tee – T-Shirt for...
  • ULTIMATE UV PROTECTION:...
  • PET ANXIETY RELIEF: Keep your...
  • MADE WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS:...
  • VARIETY OF SIZES: Choose from...
  • MACHINE WASHABLE: This is not...

This is a silky shirt that reduces heat absorption, especially for dark colored dogs. It is also a good choice for dogs with wounds or skin conditions because it is extremely lightweight and comfortable. This eco-friendly tee is made of recycled materials and it is machine washable.

You can get this shirt in more sizes than you can count, so it shouldn’t be a problem to find the right fit for your dog. The quality of the shirt is proven by the fact that it is made in the USA.

 

5. PlayaPup Dog Sun Protective Lightweight Shirts

If the style and design of the shirt are as important to you as the protection factor, then these doggie shirts are right for you. They are extremely fashionable and fit the general summertime theme. You can find them in many different sizes and designs.

PlayaPup Dog Sun Shirt (UPF 50+), Flaming Blue...
449 Reviews
PlayaPup Dog Sun Shirt (UPF 50+), Flaming Blue...
  • Fashionable, lightweight, and...
  • PRODUCT FEATURES: Regular fit,...
  • SUN PROTECTION: UPF 50+...
  • QUALITY + COMFORT: Pet swim...
  • Colorful designs to make a...

In addition to their colorful appearance, these shirts are extremely comfortable and lightweight. They offer protection from the sun rays and come with a 50+ UPF rating. These shirts are a better choice than sunscreen for dogs because they are free of any chemicals.

PlayaPup shirts are also good for water activities because they can dry quickly and provide protection even when they are wet. They are soft and stretchy and you will be in the center of attention if you take a walk with your pooch along the beach when he is wearing this shirt.

 

6. Pet Life Active ‘Hybreed' Dog T-Shirt

This doggie T-shirt has an ultra-thin, perforated and lightweight design, which makes the shirt extremely breathable and stretchy. It is comfortable and flexible and won’t impact your dog’s mobility at all.

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Pet Life ® Active 'Hybreed' 4-Way Stretch...
174 Reviews
Pet Life ® Active 'Hybreed' 4-Way Stretch...
  • Features an Ultra-thin,...
  • Features Quick-Drying...
  • Provides Year Round UV Sun...
  • Features Dual-Reinforced...
  • Well coordinated Dual-Tone...

It provides UV protection at all times and can help your dog feel comfortable in hot weather because it is very breathable. It also features quick-drying technology while absorbing moisture to help your dog maintain his body temperature.

This shirt features double-reinforced stitching at each seam, which guarantees longevity and durability. It also has reflective taping to provide visibility during the night. The dual-tone design is subtle and comes in many different color and sizes. This T-shirt is also machine washable and odor-resistant.

READ NEXT: Top 5 Best Dog Sunglasses and Goggles


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Top Rated Best Dog Sun Protection Clothing

Shelly lives in Iowa with her husband and Australian Shepherd named Tex. She's been an animal lover since she was a child. Currently, she enjoys reading and writing about dogs, and spending time with her family and getting involved in all things pets.