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Last updated: 26 Jul 2022
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The Best Dog Sun Hats

Best Overall
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Leconpet Princess Pet Hat
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Most Versatile
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Sebaoyu Dog Hat and Sunglasses
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Most Reliable
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Pssopp Dog Baseball Cap
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Most Stylish
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Petall Dog Sports Cap
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Best Value
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Pawaboo Owner and Dog Matching Hat Set
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author-image
By Editor
Published 26 Jul 2022
Show contents
  • 1 Leconpet Princess Pet Hat
  • 2 Sebaoyu Dog Hat and Sunglasses
  • 3 Pssopp Dog Baseball Cap
  • 4 Petall Dog Sports Cap
  • 5 Pawaboo Owner and Dog Matching Hat Set

Dog sun hats are the fashionable, functional piece you never knew your dog needed until now. Dog breeds handle heat and sunlight differently, but all dogs can benefit from the shade and protection that one provides. Our experts have done the legwork for you; here are some of our favourite sun hats for dogs!

1

Leconpet Princess Pet Hat

– Best Overall
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Key Features

It comes in beautiful floral and striped options, which are great for special events and doggy photoshoots. You can soak the hat in cold water on hot days before placing it on your dog’s head.

THE SCOOP

This full-brim hat keeps the sun out of dogs’ eyes without impeding vision. There are two fabric options, durable cotton canvas and breathable mesh, which are easy to clean. It comes in bright, patterned and solid colours. It’s an excellent fit for small to medium-sized dogs. There is an adjustable chin strap, so the hat stays in place.

Pros
  • Comes in fun colours and prints 
  • Full brim provides good coverage from the sun
  • Fabrics are comfortable and breathable

 

Cons
  • Not suitable for large dogs
2

Sebaoyu Dog Hat and Sunglasses

– Most Versatile
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Key Features

The hat comes in two sizes. The dog goggles have an adjustable strap but do not fit tiny dogs.  

THE SCOOP

This dog baseball cap comprises durable fabric with comfortable ear holes. It has a robust, flexible brim and an adjustable buckle to secure the hat to your dog during outdoor adventures. As a bonus, you get a pair of dog sunglasses, more aptly known as dog goggles or “doogles”, which provide added protection for your dog’s eyes.

Pros
  • Comes with cool, matching goggles that protect your dog’s eyes.
  • Neutral style and colours look good on any dog
  • Good sun protection
Cons
  • Googles are not suitable for tiny dogs
  • Hat is only available in two sizes—small and large
3

Pssopp Dog Baseball Cap

– Most Reliable
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Key Features

Cater for a 1-3cm error in size between your dog’s head measurements and the dimensions of the cap you choose. The cap colour you select may also look slightly different in person than in photos.

THE SCOOP

This cap is polyethene terephthalate, a lightweight, breathable, comfortable material that absorbs moisture well. It has a reliable chin strap that keeps the hat steadied. The cap’s brim is long enough to prevent direct sunlight from reaching your pet’s eyes. It has four sizes, catering to a wide range of dog breeds.

Pros
  • Brim provides pleasant shade
  • Adjustable chin strap
  • Soft, comfortable material

 

Cons
  • Sizing is tricky 
4

Petall Dog Sports Cap

– Most Stylish
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Key Features

Leave 1-2cm of space in the cap to avoid an overly tight fit on your dog. This cap is not water resistant. 

THE SCOOP

This two-toned cap has a charming, classic sports look, with stitched lettering at the front and a handsome corduroy brim that provides ample shade. The back of it is a breathable mesh that will keep your dog cool and comfortable during walks and exercise. An adjustable buckle holds the hat in place.

Pros
  • Stylish, two-tone design
  • Great for large dogs
  • Has breathable mesh 

 

Cons
  • Not water resistant
5

Pawaboo Owner and Dog Matching Hat Set

– Best Value
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Key Features

There are three colour options. These matching hats are ideal for dog-parent-and-child photoshoots. 

THE SCOOP

These caps are premium cotton, comfy and breathable. They have a sturdy construction, with flexible brims that can mould to better shade your dog’s eyes. The dog cap has a non-stretch, adjustable chin strap. It includes a matching owner’s hat that adjusts in the back. The dog caps come in four different sizes to suit most dogs.

Pros
  • Cute, matching hat set will attract positive attention
  • Value for money
  • Dog cap comes in four sizes
Cons
  • The owner’s hat only comes in one size
  • Hats only come in solid colours, no prints

 

Buying Guide

Choosing a sun hat for your dog may seem silly at first. Here are some important considerations to help guide your purchase. 

 

  • Fit: Regarding dog hats, one size does not fit all. Most have many convenient, adjustable features: chin straps, cords, buckles or Velcro. These are valuable modifiers that provide added security, but they are no substitute for purchasing the correct size. Measure your dog’s head, between and outside of the ears, and the circumference. Compare these measurements to the hat's size chart to find the closest fit. 
  • Design: Dog hats come in many styles, so before you purchase a hat, consider its intended use. Caps, visors and full-brim hats are the most popular choices for sunny days. Beanies and knit hats with ear flaps are great for a colder climate. Less practical, more fashion-focused or themed hats, like sombreros, cowboy and top hats, are fun choices for photoshoots and special occasions. Considering the weather, type of outdoor activity, type of event and your taste will help you make the right choice.
  • Comfort: Make your dog’s comfort the priority. No matter how adorable your dog looks in the hat, it should also feel comfortable. Ensure you choose one that is lightweight with soft, breathable fabric. If it has ear holes, make sure they are big enough for your dog’s ears to pass through easily. Look for brims that are wide enough to shade your dog’s eyes but do not obstruct his vision. Remember, the right size is key to comfort. 
  • Price: A hat has the power to make your naturally cute dog even more adorable, so don’t be afraid to spend a little extra to get the look that you want, especially for special events. However, if the hat is uncomfortable, oversized or otherwise impractical, you’ll be lucky to get a few great photos before your dog shakes it off. Functionality should trump fashion. Your dog will not know whether he is wearing the latest style. The great thing is, whether pricey or inexpensive, your dog will look cute in any hat. 

FAQs

Q: Are dog sun hats necessary?

A: Unlike other dog garments that are mainly fashionable, sun hats also serve a practical purpose. Dogs’ eyes are sensitive to sunlight. A sun hat blocks direct sunlight from reaching their eyes, allowing dogs to see and manoeuvre better in extremely bright conditions. If your dog’s face lacks protection, harmful UV rays can cause sunburn and contribute to eye conditions like cataracts and pannus. A sun hat reduces the risk of such medical conditions and helps preserve the health of their eyes in the long run. 

Q: How do you get a dog to keep on a hat?

A:   Hats are not familiar objects to dogs, so if your dog doesn’t seem keen on wearing them, don’t get upset. Instead, show your dog that the hat is a positive thing. Place the hat near your dog and reward your dog for interacting with it. Repeat this for a few days, then try it on your dog’s head. If he keeps it on, reward him; if not, continue to repeat this action. Positive reinforcement is the best technique for getting your dog to warm up to the hat. It also helps if you previously trained your dog in basic commands like “sit” and “stay”. If you want your dog to keep the hat on for long periods, ensure that the hat is lightweight and fits comfortably. An adjustable chin strap will also prove helpful.

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By Editor
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