Dog skin problems in UAE summer: causes, prevention and treatment

UAE summers can be tough on your dog’s skin. Heat, humidity, air conditioning, UV exposure, sand, and saltwater can all contribute to irritation, infections, and flare-ups. It’s one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet during the summer months.

The good news? Most summer skin problems can be prevented, and when caught early, they’re usually much easier to manage.

Quick guide: common summer skin issues in dogs

Why UAE summers are particularly hard on dog skin

Several factors combine to make summer a challenging season for skin health:

Heat
High temperatures increase moisture loss and can contribute to skin irritation.

Humidity
Coastal areas such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi combine heat with high humidity, creating ideal conditions for yeast and bacteria to thrive on the skin.

Air conditioning
Moving between humid outdoor conditions and cool indoor environments can affect the skin barrier and worsen dryness in some dogs.

UV exposure
Dogs with pale skin, thin coats, or exposed areas such as the nose, ears, and belly are more vulnerable to sun damage.

Allergens
Dust, sand, grasses, and seasonal pollens can trigger allergic skin reactions.

Pools and beaches
Repeated exposure to chlorine and saltwater can dry and irritate the skin.

1. Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis)

What it looks like

A red, moist, painful patch of skin that appears suddenly. Dogs often lick, chew, or scratch the area intensely. The skin may ooze and can spread rapidly if left untreated.

Why it happens in summer
Hot spots develop when bacteria multiply in a warm, moist environment. Summer heat and humidity create ideal conditions. A flea bite, minor wound, skin fold, or small irritation can quickly escalate.

What to do

• Clip the fur around the affected area to improve airflow.

• Gently clean with a mild antiseptic solution.

• Apply a veterinary-recommended topical treatment.

• Prevent licking with an e-collar.

• Book a veterinary appointment, as some hot spots require medication.

Prevention

Keep the coat clean and dry, stay on top of parasite prevention, and address any underlying cause of scratching.

2. Yeast infections (Malassezia dermatitis)

What it looks like

Red or brown discolouration of the skin, greasy fur, a musty smell, and persistent itching. Common areas include skin folds, paws, and ears.

Why it happens in summer

Malassezia is a naturally occurring yeast that normally lives on the skin. Hot and humid conditions can allow it to overgrow, particularly in skin folds and ear canals.

What to do

• Visit your veterinarian for a diagnosis.

• Follow treatment recommendations, which may include medicated shampoos, creams, or medication.

• Keep skin folds clean and dry.

• Dry thoroughly after bathing, swimming, or beach visits.

Prevention

Regular grooming, proper drying, and maintaining a balanced diet can help support healthy skin.

3. Allergic skin reactions (atopic dermatitis)

What it looks like

Persistent itching, excessive paw licking, redness, recurrent ear infections, and skin thickening over time.

Why it happens in summer

Spring and summer bring increased exposure to dust, pollen, grasses, and other environmental allergens. In sensitive dogs, the immune system reacts by causing inflammation in the skin.

What to do

• Consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
• Allergy testing may be recommended.
• Follow the treatment plan provided by your vet.
• Wipe paws and the belly after outdoor walks.

Prevention

Keep indoor spaces clean, use air purifiers where appropriate, and wipe down your dog after outdoor activities.

4. Paw pad burns and cracking

What it looks like

Redness, limping, excessive paw licking, cracked pads, or blistering.

Why it happens in summer

Pavement and sand in the UAE can reach extremely high temperatures during the day, causing burns even after brief exposure.

What to do

• Move your dog to a cool surface immediately.
• Rinse paws with cool water.
• Apply a dog-safe paw balm.
• Seek veterinary care for severe burns or blistering.

Prevention

Walk before 8am or after sunset. Use the five-second test: if you cannot comfortably hold your hand on the surface for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog.

5. Sunburn

What it looks like

Pink or red skin, particularly on the nose, ears, belly, and groin. Severe cases may involve peeling or blistering.

Why it matters

Repeated sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer over time.

What to do

• Use a pet-safe sunscreen.
• Limit outdoor time during peak UV hours.
• Provide access to shade.
• Consult your veterinarian if signs are severe or persistent.

Prevention

Dogs with pale skin, pink noses, thin coats, or sparse fur coverage should have additional sun protection.

6. Flea and tick-related skin problems

What it looks like

Persistent scratching, hair loss, red bumps, scabs, or irritation around the base of the tail and belly.

Why it happens in summer

Parasites are present year-round in the UAE, but populations often increase during warmer months.

What to do

• Check for fleas using a flea comb.
• Use veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention.
• Treat both your dog and the environment if fleas are found.

Prevention

Stay consistent with parasite prevention throughout the year and check for ticks after outdoor activities.

A simple summer skin-care routine

A few habits can make a significant difference:

• Perform weekly skin checks, especially in ears, skin folds, paws, and the groin area.
• Bathe every 3 to 4 weeks using an appropriate shampoo.
• Dry thoroughly after baths, swimming, or beach visits.
• Feed a balanced diet that supports skin health.
• Maintain year-round parasite prevention.
• Ensure constant access to fresh water.

Hydration matters. Dehydrated skin is compromised skin. Moisture-rich fresh food can also contribute to overall hydration, particularly during the hotter months.

When should you see a vet?

Book an appointment if you notice:

• A skin lesion that has not improved within 3 to 5 days.
• Spreading redness, discharge, or unpleasant odour.
• Persistent scratching, chewing, or licking.
• Hair loss.
• New lumps, bumps, or areas of discolouration.

Most skin conditions are easier to manage when addressed early.

Healthy skin starts with the Circle of Care

The best outcomes rarely come from one thing alone.

Healthy skin is supported by veterinary care, good grooming habits, parasite prevention, and balanced nutrition. We call this the Circle of Care: when vets, pet guardians, and nutrition work together to support your dog’s wellbeing.

A diet rich in quality protein, essential fatty acids, and moisture can help support the skin barrier and normal inflammatory responses. Fresh food can also be a practical way to increase moisture intake, particularly during the hotter months.

If your dog struggles with recurring skin issues, speak with your veterinarian to identify and manage any underlying conditions. Once a treatment plan is in place, nutrition can play an important supportive role.

Wunderdog meals are made with fresh, gently cooked ingredients and include natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids that help support healthy skin and coat condition.

Explore our meals or book a free nutrition consultation with our in-house vet team.