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Vet-Explained Reasons & Care
Wet noses have long been lauded as a beacon of canine health, and even someone with little to no knowledge about animals has probably heard that ‘a wet nose means a healthy dog’. So, why are dog noses wet? And if your dog’s nose is always warm and dry, do you need to be concerned?
This article discusses nasal anatomy of the dog, how a wet nose can be useful, and what to do if you’ve noticed your dog’s nose has become dry. We also bust common myths and discuss potential ‘red flag signs’. Read on for a vet-informed, up to date article all about your dog’s nose
Yes! A wet nose is to be expected and is normal.
Most healthy dogs will have a slightly wet nose that feels a little cool to the touch. However, this can vary a little throughout the day and will depend on things like the humidity, temperature, if your dog has recently had anything to drink or eat, and on breed.
A wet nose keeps your dog healthy. The clever system allows for a mild cooling effect- important for animals like dogs who have limited sweating capability. Dogs can use their nasal moisture to fine tune their body temperature if it is a little too warm.
It is important to state that not every dog with a wet nose is automatically healthy, and that a dry nose doesn't necessarily mean a dog is sick. It is a pretty crude test of health and it has its limitations.
The part of the nose we see is just the tip of the iceberg, and there is a lot more to your dog’s nose than meets the eye.
This is the hairless bit at the front of the nose that may or may not have pigment, and is what we often refer to when we say the dog’s‘nose’.
These are the folds within the nose made from scrolled-up bone. They create a large surface area, allowing for an excellent sense of smell. They also warm and filter the air before it is breathed into the lungs.
The mucous glands produce slimy mucus to keep the nose moist and trap scent particles. The tear ducts also contribute to this moisture, as the lacrimal fluid drains through the nostrils.
Interesting fact: Some dogs have blocked lacrimal glands, leading to tears spilling over the eyes. This can cause crusting and fur colour changes around the eyes. It is a common feature in short-faced dogs like the Maltese and Shih tzu.
This special part of the canine olfactory system is located in the roof of the mouth rather than the nose itself. It can detect pheromones in the environment, allowing dogs to sense other dog’s reproductive status, for example.
There is more than one reason why your dog’s nose is often wet.
The mucus not only provides moisture, it is also the perfect substrate for scent chemicals to dissolve into and linger for some time.
The dog’s wet tongue is constantly spreading moisture all over the surface of the dog’s nose. This is brilliant for trapping smells from the environment.
Your dog is also likely to pick up moisture after drinking, from humid air, or if sniffing long and wet grass. Their spongey nose soaks up the moisture around them, and it stays for a short while.
You may notice that brachycephalic dogs (snub-nosed breeds like Pugs and Boxers) are more prone to dry noses, and their noses are often crusty and flakey. Thanks to the way they were bred, these dogs frequently struggle to reach their nose with their tongue!
If your dog’s nose is suddenly much more wet than usual or they have begun to secrete liquid from their nose, this is worth paying attention to.
Some extra moisture can be normal at certain times, such as when the air around the dog is very humid, they’ve just had a drink, or they’ve been doing heavy exercise.
A very wet nose at other times could indicate an issue, especially if there is a persistent drip, bad smell, or if the discharge is colored.
Similarly, if your dog has other symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or lethargy, you’re likely dealing with a medical issue, such as an upper respiratory tract infection or a foreign body in the nose.
If your dog’s nose looks or feels dry or warm, this is also worth paying attention to.
Your dog may not always have a wet nose. After sleeping or being outside in the hot sun or wind, their nose may have dried out a little. You’ll find this doesn’t last too long.
As mentioned, dogs who lick their noses less are also going to have drier noses. Brachycephalic breeds commonly have visibly dry noses, as do senior dogs, who may also struggle to reach their nose. We also find that older dogs naturally produce less nasal mucus.
Certainly, a dry nose can be an indicator of a medical issue. For example, we see it in dogs who have a fever or who are dehydrated. It can also occur in certain dermatological disorders, such as lupus or hyperkeratosis.
There will be some occasions when a trip to the vet is a sensible step. This would include:
Persistent dryness with cracking/bleeding or any pain. While some dryness is normal, it should not be causing pain and should not bleed.
Colored nasal discharge. Whether the discharge is green, brown, or bloody, this is concerning. Color may indicate a bacterial infection.
Accompanying signs. If your dog also has labored breathing, coughing, fever, lethargy, a reduced appetite, or wheezing, this would require urgent investigation.
Facial swelling. Swelling can occur with advanced dental disease, an allergic reaction, or a tumor. Head to the vet if your dog’s face seems puffier than usual.
Consistent pawing at the nose. If your dog rubs their nose, they are uncomfortable. It could be that there is a foreign body, polyp or infection.
So, what can you do from home to help keep your dog’s nose in tip-top shape?
Always ensure your dog has access to fresh and clean water. Ensure the environment they live in is not too dry or hot, particularly if you regularly use central heating or live in an arid area.
A dog’s nose is sensitive. Make an effort to avoid irritants in the air such as fragrance sprays, essential oils, strong cooking fumes, or smoke within the home.
For mild dryness, consider regularly cleansing with warm water, and then sealing this moisture in using a vet-approved, dog-safe nose and paw balm. You may find you only need to do this in the winter months.
Of course, it is also important to keep on top of your dog’s general health. This means routine vet checks and ensuring they are up to date with their vaccines and parasite prevention. Seeing your vet frequently ensures medical issues are detected and dealt with early on.
Why does my dog have a wet, cold nose?
This is generally a sign of health, and is caused by nasal secretions and your dog licking their nose.
Why is my dog’s nose so wet?
Some moisture is normal, but excess amounts can indicate an issue such as an upper respiratory infection or allergies.
Is a wet nose a sign of a healthy dog?
Not necessarily, as an unhealthy dog can still have a wet nose. However, healthy dogs do often have wet noses.
Dog nose anatomy - what makes it different from humans?
Your dog has far more scent receptors than we do. Of course, they also have a moist sponge-like exterior part to their nose that we lack, which is again, great for trapping scent particles.
Should I touch/clean my dog’s nose?
A healthy nose should not be interfered with and there is no need to touch it or clean it. If your dog has a medical issue, then your vet may recommend using a cleanser or balm, as appropriate.
Most healthy dogs will have a wet nose, and this can contribute to cooling off and also helps provide your dog with an excellent sense of smell. The nose can dry out in certain situations, but should then return to its normal state not long after.
Signs of disease can include colored or excessive nasal discharge, visible cracks, or additional symptoms like wheezing or a cough. Don’t hesitate to seek veterinary advice if you have concerns for your dog or their nose.
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