Besides making your dog look adorable, do dog sunglasses serve a practical purpose? Do dogs need sunglasses, or are they just a trendy accessory? The answer is no—dogs don’t need sunglasses. However, in certain situations, they can be very beneficial.

Sunglasses can protect your dog’s eyes from harmful UV rays, especially if they have an eye condition. They can also shield against wind, sand, and thorns, making them useful for outdoor adventures. If your dog enjoys sticking their head out of the car window, a pair of shades might be a great idea to keep their eyes safe.

In this article, we’ll explore how sunglasses can help dogs, how to train your dog to wear them, and situations where they might not be the best option for your pup.

Do Dogs Need Sunglasses or Goggles? Reasons (Explained)

Dogs don’t necessarily need sunglasses, but some breeds, certain medical conditions, and protection from elements may make sunglasses beneficial for them.

Dog Sunglasses for UV Protection

Dogs can benefit from eye protection in several situations. Aging dogs are prone to iris atrophy, a condition that makes it harder for their eyes to adjust to bright light, increasing their sensitivity and discomfort. Protective eyewear can help shield their eyes and reduce strain.

If you live at higher altitudes, where UV rays are stronger, your dog’s eyes are at greater risk of being damaged from the sun. Dogs that love playing at the beach also face irritation from sand getting into their eyes, along with harm from the sun’s rays. Ultraviolet rays impact dogs’ eyes much like they do humans, in fact, more. A study shows that dogs transmit significantly higher amounts of UV radiation through their eyes as compared to humans, making them more vulnerable.

Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays can cause conditions like cancer and sunburn around the delicate skin near their eyes. So, just as you protect your eyes with sunglasses, it’s important to protect your dog’s eyes, too with a good pair of dog goggles.

Breeds That Need Doggles

Dogs with short legs, like Corgis and Dachshunds, are closer to the ground, which increases their risk of eye injuries from stones, thorns, and debris. Their closeness to the ground makes them vulnerable when exploring outdoors or playing in areas with rough terrain. These dogs often love running through grassy or wooded areas, which can put them at greater risk of eye irritation and injury from branches, dust, or sand.

Brachycephalic breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, are also prone to eye issues due to their large, protruding eyes. These breeds are more likely to suffer from scratches, abrasions, and irritation caused by elements like sand, bushes, or even flying insects. Their unique facial structure makes them more likely to face issues like corneal ulcers, low tear production, and discomfort from long eyelashes irritating their eyes.

Dog goggles provide much-needed protection, preventing eye injuries and reducing irritation. They can also help prevent long-term damage from UV rays, sand, and wind, improving comfort during outdoor activities.

Goggles for Working Dogs

Working dogs, including police dogs, military dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs, often work in harsh environments where their eyes are at greater risk of injury. These dogs may face exposure to flying debris, sharp objects, smoke, or dust during their tasks, which can cause serious damage to their eyes. Protective eyewear, like goggle-style sunglasses, can help in preventing injuries, so these dogs stay safe and perform their jobs without risk of eye damage.

Dog Sunglasses for Eye Diseases

Certain eye conditions in dogs, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and pannus, can benefit from the use of sunglasses, even if they cannot be entirely prevented. Cataract in dogs is mainly caused by genetics, although UV rays can also contribute to their development, just as they do in humans. Sunglasses protect your dog’s eyes, reducing the amount of UV rays entering and damaging the eye further.

Glaucoma, a painful condition caused by increased pressure in the eye due to blocked fluid flow, is also mostly inherited. While sunglasses cannot prevent glaucoma, they can minimize complications by shielding the eyes from bright light and protecting them from injuries caused by environmental factors like thorns and bushes. Similarly, pannus, an inherited inflammatory condition affecting breeds like German Shepherds, can worsen with UV exposure. Sunglasses with UV protection can slow their progression and provide relief for affected dogs.

Although most vets recommend a cone collar or an inflatable collar post-surgery, sunglasses can also help protect your dog’s eyes from scratches, dust, and wind, which can delay healing. They can also improve the comfort and safety of blind dogs by protecting their vulnerable eyes from accidental trauma.

Do All Dogs Need Sunglasses?

Not all dogs need sunglasses, and sometimes they can do more harm than good. If your dog doesn’t like wearing them and tries to pull them off aggressively, it’s best to skip them altogether. Sunglasses that don’t fit well and press against your dog’s eyelids can make eye problems like glaucoma or corneal ulcers worse. Some dogs may also feel stressed or anxious when forced to wear them, which isn’t worth the trouble. In such cases, a hat or visor might be a better and more comfortable alternative.

While sunglasses can be adorable, they’re only useful outdoors. Wearing them indoors can make it harder for your dog to see clearly and may leave them feeling confused. Always prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety when deciding on protective eyewear.

How to Get Your Dog Used to Wear Doggles

Getting your dog used to wearing doggles takes patience, time, and lots of treats! Some dogs adapt quickly, while others need more encouragement. Start by introducing the sunglasses slowly. Let your dog sniff and explore them before trying to put them on. Begin with short sessions—just a few seconds at a time—and reward your pup with their favorite treats or praise when they wear the goggles. Gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Make the experience fun by pairing it with activities your dog enjoys, like playing or going for a walk. This helps them associate the sunglasses with positive moments. With regular practice, you can make your dog fall in love with those goggles.

Never force your dog to wear sunglasses if they resist or feel stressed. It’s also important not to leave the goggles on for long periods, as this can cause discomfort.

Signs Your Dog’s Eyes Need a Vet Visit 

If you’re wondering, “Do dogs need sunglasses?”, remember that eye health comes first. Watch for these warning signs in your dog’s eyes and call the vet immediately:

• Squinting
• Watery eyes
• Pawing at the eyes repeatedly
• Redness of the eyes
• Cloudiness in the eyes  
• Yellow-green discharge

Always consult your vet before putting sunglasses on your dog to ensure it’s safe and appropriate.

FAQs