Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Dogs are well-known for having wet noses, and there are lots of reasons why your pup's snout is moist. Dogs lick their noses often and also make a mess when drinking from their bowls or exploring outdoors. Additionally, dogs cool themselves through the nose and paws, so the dampness can be totally normal and harmless.1 However, if that moisture turns into a persistent runny nose, it could be cause for concern. Understanding the reasons behind your dog's runny nose is important to ensure their overall health and wellness.
Understanding runny noses in dogs
It's not unusual for your dog's nose to be wet. In fact, it's often a sign they are healthy. Conversely, a dry nose isn't always a cause for concern and is common, especially if your dog has just woken up.2 The most important thing is knowing what's normal for your dog.
A runny nose in dogs, technically known as rhinorrhea, is the abnormal discharge of mucus or fluid from the nostrils. It can manifest as a clear, watery discharge, or it may be thick and colored. There are many benign causes of a runny nose in dogs, but because it can sometimes be a symptom of something more serious, it's important to consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following ongoing symptoms in your pet.3
Key symptoms and signs
Pay attention to these signs:
- Nasal discharge on just one side
- Sneezing
- Green or blood-tinged nasal discharge
- Coughing, lethargy or loss of appetite
- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
- Stertor (abnormal noise heard during inhalation)4
Clear discharge from your dog's nose, especially if it's infrequent, is usually not a cause for concern. Other signs and symptoms your dog is sick, such as coughing, nasal congestion, and in severe cases, nosebleeds, might mean a trip to the vet is in order.
Common causes of runny noses in dogs
Runny noses in dogs can be caused by a range of issues, including:
Respiratory infections
A significant contributor to runny noses in dogs is respiratory infections, which can be caused by a variety of viruses or bacteria. They can include kennel cough, canine influenza and sinusitis. Kennel cough is like a chest cold in humans and can be mild to severe, but it usually clears up by itself in a few weeks.5
Allergies
Dogs can be affected by allergens leading to runny noses, just like humans. The most common sources of pet allergens are fleas, food allergens or things in the environment like dust, pollen, fungus and mold.6 Your veterinarian can test for a variety of sensitivities and provide allergy medication if needed.
Environmental irritants
Just like humans, dogs can be sensitive to irritants in the environment. Cigarette smoke, perfumes, strong cleaning products or dust can bother some dogs. Try to keep your home clean and remove any environmental triggers that exacerbate your pup's symptoms.
Foreign objects
Dogs are curious creatures, and they may inhale foreign objects that irritate their nasal passages. If your dog is pawing at their face or has discharge from one nostril, it may suggest the presence of a foreign object.7 Additionally, nasal tumors can develop and cause persistent nasal discharge.
Dental problems
Abscesses, gum disease and dental disease can extend into the nasal passages, resulting in a runny nose in dogs.
Nasal mites and parasites
Several types of nasal parasites can infest dogs, causing discomfort and nasal discharge.
Diagnosing a runny nose in dogs
Although pet parents can make important observations, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian if the problem persists. They can conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
They may order various diagnostic tests, including blood tests, nasal swabs and cultures, imaging such as X-rays or CT scans, and rhinoscopy, which involves examining the nasal passages with a specialized tool to find out exactly what's going on with your pup's nose.
Treatment options
Treating your dog's runny nose will depend on what your veterinarian identifies as the underlying causes. Bacterial infections may require a course of antibiotics, while antiviral medications can be prescribed for viral infections. Allergies can be managed with antihistamines and corticosteroids, while foreign objects need to be removed, with repairs made to any damage to the nose and surrounding areas. Dental treatments or parasite control may be needed to control other issues that are causing a runny nose.
In addition to treating the cause, providing supportive care is crucial. This includes ensuring your dog stays hydrated and well-nourished, humidifying the environment to ease breathing, offering ample rest and reducing stress. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, such as for nasal tumors or structural abnormalities.
Home care and prevention
After initial treatment, follow-up care will be needed to monitor your dog's progress and ensure a complete recovery. You'll want to monitor your dog carefully, observing any changes in their nasal discharge or overall health. To prevent future problems from occurring, be sure your dog is up-to-date on pet vaccinations against common viral infections, take measures to avoid allergens, practice proper dental hygiene by keeping your dog's teeth clean and well cared for, and schedule regular veterinary checkups.
When to seek immediate veterinary attention
Certain symptoms should prompt immediate veterinary attention, including severe nosebleeds, difficulty breathing or a sudden change in behavior. In emergencies, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian or an animal hospital. Quick action can make all the difference in your dog's health and well-being. Get access to expert advice any time of the day or night with the Pets Best Emergency 24/7 Helpline, included with your policy.
Understanding and addressing the causes of a runny nose in your dog is vital for their comfort and health. By recognizing common causes and treatment options, as well as knowing when to seek professional help, you can help your canine companion lead a happy and healthy life.
Sources/Citations
1. "Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?" Heather M. (10/2019), ASPCA, https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses/, accessed September 28, 2023.
2. “Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?" Ryan Llera and Lynn Buzhardt (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses, accessed September 28, 2023.
3. “Runny Nose In Dogs - When Should You Be Concerned?" Dr. Brad Hinsperger (12/2022), Kingsdale Animal Hospital, https://www.kingsdale.com/runny-nose-in-dogs-when-should-you-be-concerned, accessed September 28, 2023.
4. “Noisy Breathing in Dogs," (8/2022), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_noisy_breathing, accessed September 28, 2023.
5. “Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (a.k.a. Kennel Cough)," (n.d.), Animal Humane Society, https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/canine-infectious-respiratory-disease-aka-kennel-cough, accessed September 28, 2023.
6. “Types of Dog Allergies and How to Treat Them," (9/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies-symptoms-treatment/, accessed September 28, 2023.
7.“Rhinitis and Sinusitis in Dogs," Ned F. Kuehn (10/2022), Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/rhinitis-and-sinusitis-in-dogs, accessed September 28, 2023.