A dog’s nose is remarkable with incredible abilities that far surpass our own!
But at the same time, it’s important to remember a dog’s nose is also a sensitive organ that requires ongoing care.
Keep reading to learn more about issues and potential natural treatments for your dog’s nose!
Did you miss our previous blog post? Click here: “A Dog’s Nose: 11 Fascinating Things to Know!”
A Dog’s Nose: Common Issues
Just like your own nose, your dog’s nose can be affected by a variety of nasal issues from dry skin to infections, discoloration, allergies and much more. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at potential canine nose problems.
According to VetInfo.com, there are four common dog nose problems:
- Blistering of the nose. This condition can happen from too much unprotected sun exposure. Protect your dog’s nose if they spend extended periods out in the sun with dog-friendly sunscreen products (do not use human products as they may contain toxic dyes, fragrances, additives and ingredients for dogs).
A Lighter Dog’s Nose (Especially During Winter) is Called a “Snow Nose” - Snow nose. This happens during winter when a dog’s nose fades to brown from the loss of sunlight. Also referred to as “winter nose.” It is not associated with any potential disease and is primarily cosmetic.
- Nasal infections. Infections commonly arise from bacteria, a virus (like a cold) or fungus (including aspergillosis, cryptococcosis and leishmaniasis infections).
- Issues from eating out of plastic dishes. Plastic products often contain dyes that may lead to allergies or sensitivities in certain dogs. Use stainless steel, glass or ceramic products instead.
However, this is by no means a full list of potential issues your dog’s nose can be challenged by. Keep reading to learn more.
A Dog’s Nose: Other Issues
At one time or another, most dogs will suffer from a dry nose. But before you panic, a hot, dry nose is not necessarily a reason to immediately rush to your vet.
Dry dog noses can indicate one of the following scenarios:
- A sleeping dog who hasn’t licked his nose in a while.
- Breeds with short snouts (brachycephalic).
- Dehydration from exercise or exposure to outdoor or indoor elements that tend to dry.
- Allergies.
- Sunburn.
- Fever or even dry eyes or blocked tear ducts.
- An auto-immune disease; and
- Age.
Work with your veterinarian to resolve the issue if your dog’s nose is chronically dry.
A Dog’s Nose: When Do You Need a Vet?
When should you rush to your veterinarian when it comes to your dog’s nose? The following scenarios require a vet visit as quickly as possible.
- Is your dog continuously rubbing his nose non-stop?
- Is your dog having trouble breathing? Gagging? Coughing or sneezing?
- Is your dog’s nose raw, have sores, abscesses, scabs or inflamed bumps?
- Are they suddenly started snoring while they sleep?
- Is there inflammation or swelling that is not healing?
- Are there changes in the nose’s texture or moisture?
- Is the dog’s nose crusting, bleeding, itching or showing discharge (this includes the eyes too)?
- Is your dog having nosebleeds?
These could all be signs of more serious issues and require a timely, expert diagnosis and treatment plan for your dog’s best outcome and comfort.
Watch for our final blog in this series, “A Dog’s Nose: Natural Treatments” coming soon!
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