Coconut Oil - Nature's Sunscreen

• Posted on 15 July 2025
• By Dr. Jill Tack
• Posted in coat, coconut, health, oil, pet, protection, skin, sun, sunblock, sunscreen, support
• 0

We're in the thick of summer now! It's a great time to hit the dog park or the beach with your buddy and soak up some summer sun. And as you grab your sunhat and sunglasses, did you consider that your dog might need sun protection, too? But hats and sunglasses and cover-ups aren't the best accessories for dogs so you may be wondering if there is a natural sunscreen option available for your pet.

Summer is here, and that means beach trips, backyard zoomies, and lazy days at the dog park. As you're packing your sunhat, water bottle, and maybe a frozen treat for your furry best friend, here’s a sunny little question:

Does your dog need sun protection too?
Spoiler alert: Yes. And the best part? You don’t have to reach for a chemical sunscreen to protect them.

Let’s talk about a safe, natural option that’s been used for generations, and why your dog (and their belly, nose, or furless bits) might just thank you for it.

What You’ll Learn in This Blog

• Why dogs can get sunburned (and what to watch for)

• The problem with conventional pet sunscreens

• How coconut oil acts as a natural sunscreen alternative

• Why sunshine is essential for vitamin D

• How to safely enjoy the summer sun with your dog

Can Dogs Get Sunburned?

Yes. Dogs with light-colored fur, pink skin, or thin coats, like Dalmatians, Pit Bulls, Boxers, and hairless breeds, are especially vulnerable. But even fluffy pups can burn on:

• Pink noses

• Ear tips

• Belly skin (especially when lounging belly-up)

• Any area with hair loss or thinning fur

Sunburn can lead to redness, peeling, itching, discomfort, or even increase the risk of long-term skin damage.

The Problem with Pet Sunscreens

Many over-the-counter sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, or avobenzone. These ingredients are known hormone disruptors and can be toxic if licked off.

Even some pet-branded sunscreens contain synthetic ingredients that are not ideal for long-term use.

Never use human sunscreen on your dog. If it’s not safe to ingest, it doesn’t belong on their skin.

The Coconut Oil Solution

Coconut oil has been used for centuries by island communities as a natural sun protectant. Before modern sunscreen was developed, coconut oil was the primary ingredient in many commercial suntan products.

Over time, it was replaced by synthetic chemicals designed to block UV rays more aggressively. But in doing so, we also blocked vitamin D production—and introduced toxins to our bodies and the environment.

What Makes Coconut Oil Great for Pets?

• Contains a natural SPF of about 4–6

• Non-toxic if licked or ingested

• Moisturizes and protects sensitive skin

• Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory

• Still allows the body to absorb vitamin D from sunlight

Apply it to your dog’s nose, ears, belly, or any sun-sensitive area before heading outdoors. It’s simple, safe, and gives their coat a beautiful shine.

Looking for a clean, pet-safe coconut oil? Ask us in-store. We carry several options we trust.

Why Vitamin D Matters

Sunlight is critical for vitamin D production. It helps:

• Build strong bones and teeth

• Support immune function

• Reduce inflammation

• Regulate blood sugar and blood pressure

• Prevent certain autoimmune diseases and some cancers

There are very few strong dietary sources of vitamin D. Organ meats and fish liver oils are the best, but most pets don’t consume them regularly. That makes moderate, smart sun exposure essential.

Unfortunately, many conventional sunscreens block nearly all UVB rays, which are needed for vitamin D production. Coconut oil provides light protection while still allowing the body to synthesize this crucial nutrient.

Michigan Pet Parents: Enjoy the Sun Safely

In the Metro Detroit area, we wait all year for these sunny days. But between lawn chemicals, rising temps, and mosquito spraying, it’s important to be intentional about summer safety.

Here are a few smart habits for sun-loving dogs:

• Apply coconut oil to sensitive areas before outdoor time

• Avoid being outside during peak UV hours (11 AM to 3 PM)

• Provide shade and fresh water

• Use cooling mats or vests for heat-sensitive breeds

• Rinse your dog after lake, river, or pool play

• Offer hydrating foods like raw goat milk or frozen raw snacks

Stop by The Pet Beastro for summer essentials, or ask our team about safe cooling and sun support options for your dog.

What We Recommend This Summer

• Organic Coconut Oil – Safe for topical or dietary use. Helps moisturize, protect, and condition skin.

• Raw Goat Milk – A cooling, hydrating raw supplement that also supports digestion.

• Frozen Raw Treats – Great for hot weather, nutrient-dense, and delicious.

• Pet Cooling Mats and Sprays – Designed to regulate body temperature safely.

Ask us about our full summer wellness lineup in-store or explore our seasonal picks online.

Summer Is Better Together. Just Make It Safe

You don’t need chemical sunscreen or complicated routines to keep your pet protected. Just a little coconut oil, some mindful sun habits, and nutrient-rich food can go a long way.

Let your pup enjoy the sunshine, roll in the grass, and relax next to you, all while staying healthy and naturally protected.

Stop by our retail locations in Madison Heights, Michigan, just north of Detroit, or in Warren, Southeast Corner of East 14 Mile Road and Schoenherr, which are open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. Also, visit our 24/7 natural pet food treats, toys, and supplies store online. Please message us on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok for further information!