What Are The Benefits Of The Sun On Dogs?
The benefits of the sun on dogs are many and at the same time important. Still, not everyone knows about the positive effects of sunlight on dogs.
Today we want to make you reflect on two questions: what do you think are the benefits of the sun on dogs ? Can you list any of them? In case you can’t answer, don’t worry. In this article, we introduce you to the different benefits of the sun on dogs.
The benefits of the sun on dogs
The sun is essential for activating various processes within the body. As for the benefits of the sun on dogs, we can mention the following, collected based on the research of various scientific studies.
Body temperature regulation
During the cold months, dogs, homeothermic animals, need different sources of heat. This physiological need explains why they expose themselves to the sun when temperatures drop: they are simply looking for a source of natural heat.
Some breeds are more vulnerable to the cold than others. A clear example of this variety is represented by short-haired breeds, as well as small dogs, for example Chihuahuas.
One way to help these breeds reach the right temperature in the winter is to make sure the area they rest in is not exposed to cold drafts and that there is a good ambient temperature.
Another popular option is to use dog clothes. On the market there are different shapes and fabrics, and you will surely find the one that best suits your dog.
The benefits of the sun in dogs: the immune system
Solar radiation, in adequate doses, is essential for proper hormonal functioning. Without this natural source of heat, the body will not be able to perform normal daily functions in the best way.
For example, it has been observed that sunlight is necessary for the secretion of melatonin. It is the sleep hormone, which allows the dog to rest well and activate his immune system.
The sun improves the dog’s mood
As we have seen, the benefits of the sun on dogs are different. And if that weren’t enough, studies have shown how sunlight also affects the mood of these animals.
This is because sun exposure secretes the hormone of happiness, called serotonin. This hormone preserves the dog’s mood, just like it does with humans.
The benefits of the sun on dogs: it fights rickets and joint pain
First, rickets is a pathology that causes the bones of the body to deform. It usually occurs in puppies and is easily observed based on their body position.
This pathology is due to a deficiency in the body of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. The deficiency of these elements leads to bone problems for puppies, with symptoms such as:
- Growth retardation.
- Large and deformed bones.
- Swollen joints.
- Discomfort in the teeth.
- Deformed spine.
Rickets is also more common in puppies of large dogs, such as German Shepherds or Bulldogs. For these breeds, sun exposure is even more important.
On the other hand, sunlight has also been observed to reduce discomfort for older dogs. From a certain age, dogs often suffer from very painful rheumatic diseases. However, in the face of greater exposure to the sun with the arrival of seniority, it is more likely that these symptoms will disappear.
Generate Vitamin D
To avoid rickets, the puppy must get sufficient amounts of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. The quickest and easiest way to get vitamin D is through sunlight.
When the animal takes the sun, a whole series of chemical reactions take place in the organism. Thanks to these reactions, the body synthesizes vitamin D, which serves to regulate, for example, all those processes in the body mediated by calcium.
However, there are situations when the dog is unable to synthesize this vitamin. In this case, the vet may recommend the administration of its synthetic equivalent, cholecalciferol, or suggest a diet based on foods that contain it, such as dry foods.
But what is the importance of this vitamin? Vitamin D is one of the essential nutrients in the diet of dogs, especially for its function:
- Helps regulate internal balance.
- Preserves calcium and phosphorus.
Although the benefits of the sun on dogs are numerous, it is necessary to protect them adequately. Never forget your sunscreen, especially during the most dangerous hours.
Also make sure your dog is sufficiently hydrated. In this way you will prevent him from suffering from heat stroke and you can make him make the most of the benefits that sun exposure brings.
