If your dog likes to sit in the sun - and what Schnauzer doesn't! - you need to make sure he or she doesn't get too much of a good thing.
Dogs - especially light coloured ones, like white Schnauzers - are susceptible to sunburn, especially in areas where their fur is thinner, such as the tips of their ears or bridge of their noses.
White Schnauzers - like fair-skinned people - have less pigment in their skin and are especially prone to sunburn.
A classic sign that your Schnauzer is sunburned is reddened skin that peels and blisters. The result is sore and painful skin. And just like with people, too much exposure to the sun can cause cancer in dogs.
You can protect your dog by:
a) limiting the amount of time he or she spends in the sun,
b) use zinc oxide around the nose area,
c) applying sunscreen (careful your Schnauzer doesn't try and lick it off!) Human sun cream is fine, but if you are really particular, you can buy a sunscreen specially made for dogs.
For sunburn pain, you should mist the affected area with a water bottle, the cool water will soothe some of the discomfort. Or you can use a cold compress by dampening a small towel and placing it over the afflicted area. Rewet the towel when it starts to feel warm.
Sunburn usually does not require a trip to the vet. However, if your Schnauzer's skin is raw or broken, or if your dog is visibly in pain, you should think about taking him or her.
