One of the most common myths of dog ownership is the one that states that a dog that has a warm and dry nose is sick. This is definitely not true; so do not feel as though you have to go running to the vet’s office with Fido in hand.
However, a dry dog nose in conjunction with other symptoms of illness can indicate a major health problem. It is important to look at the whole picture, not just the one of the nose. If the whole picture points to a health problem, schedule a veterinarian appointment for the dog.
Keep in mind that a dog’s nose can change from being wet and cool to being warm and dry several times in the course of a single day. This is perfectly normal. Simple things such as lying in the sun or near a source of heat can cause a dog’s nose to be warm and dry. Poor air circulation in a room can affect the dryness of a dog’s nose. These are not things to worry about.
However, if you notice crusty flaking and a loss of color, schedule an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian as soon as possible.
A warm and dry nose in conjunction with a loss of appetite, lethargy, dehydration, sneezing, wheezing and other signs of respiratory problems, vomiting and diarrhea is a cause for concern. Again, consult a veterinarian because there very well could be an underlying medical condition that is serious in nature.
There are some common causes of dry noses in dogs that are not immediate health concerns. One is sunburn. If your dog is prone to getting a sunburned nose, use a veterinarian-recommended sunscreen to avoid the problem in the future. Avoid allowing your dog’s nose to become sunburned because canines do get skin cancer, which is very serious. Canine sunscreen products are available at most pet stores and are made to be used on most parts of the dog’s body (avoid getting any sunscreen products in the dog’s eyes). Do not use sunscreen products manufactured for humans. These contain chemicals that are harmful to dogs.
Allergies to plastics and dyes are another common cause of a dry dog nose. If your dog seems to consistently have a warm and dry nose but does not show other symptoms of a health problem, try replacing plastic water and food dishes with stainless steel or ceramic ones.
Dogs are naturally curious critters and they often stick their nose into places where it doesn’t belong. It’s not unusual for a dog to get a scratch or cut on his or her nose as a result. Monitor any scabs or sores. Don’t worry over these unless you see discharge or signs of infection. In that event, schedule an appointment with the dog’s veterinarian.
Monitor your dog’s nose for signs of any discharge. Clear mucus is most likely normal. However, if it is chronic or continues for an extended period of time, consult the dog’s vet. Thick, yellow, green or black mucus is a sign of a serious problem and the dog should be taken to the veterinarian for an examination.
Related posts:
- Why Is Your Dog’s Nose Wet?
- Is Your Dog’s Nose Print Unique?
- Bringing Up Puppy Series – Not Such a Notable Nose
