A dry nose in dogs is often harmless and can happen after a nap, in dry air or after time in the sun or wind. To treat it, make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water, gently wipe the nose with a cool, damp cloth and use a nose balm made for dogs. See your vet if the dryness lasts, or if the nose is cracked, crusty, bleeding or changing color.
It’s a common belief that a healthy dog always has a wet nose, but many healthy dogs have dry noses at times. In this article, we’ll look at the causes of a dry nose in dogs, the safest ways to treat it at home, and when it could be a sign of an underlying health problem.
Should a dog’s nose be wet?
A dog’s nose is usually moist, and that moisture helps in two important ways. Still, a dry nose by itself doesn’t necessarily mean that your dog is sick, so it’s important to look at any other symptoms too. If your dog also seems unwell, take a look at these signs that a dog is in pain.
It enhances their sense of smell
A dog’s sense of smell is reportedly thousands of times stronger than a human’s. A thin layer of mucus over the nose helps with this. After sniffing, you might notice certain dogs licking their noses to keep them moist, which helps them detect unfamiliar scents.
It helps with cooling down
Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat all over their bodies, so they use different methods to cool down. Dogs mainly stay cool by panting, using their tongues, noses and lungs to evaporate moisture and control their body temperature.
What causes a dry nose in dogs?
A dry, crusty nose in dogs can have many causes, from the completely harmless to the more serious. Here are the most common ones.
1. Sleeping
When dogs wake up from a nap, their noses might be dry because they haven’t licked them while sleeping. Once they’re awake, licking their nose should restore the moisture.
2. Dehydration
Dehydration, often following heat or intense exercise, can dry out a dog’s nose. Always make sure water is available during exercise. If your dog seems consistently exhausted or sore after activity, consider shortening their exercise sessions.
A dry nose by itself doesn’t always mean that your dog is dehydrated. Your dog’s gums are a better indicator: moist gums suggest good hydration, while dry gums may be a sign of dehydration. See your vet right away if you suspect dehydration, especially if your dog is also vomiting, lethargic or has sunken eyes.
3. Sun, wind and dry air
Exposure to sunlight, wind or cold temperatures can dry out a dog’s nose, and so can indoor heating and air vents. Dogs can even get sunburned on their noses, and those with pale or pink noses are particularly vulnerable.
4. Allergies
Allergic reactions can also cause a dry nose, often along with symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, itching, sneezing and watery eyes. Allergies can sometimes lead to a skin infection on the nose, with redness, crusts and sores. An itchy dog may also rub their face on the carpet.
5. Age and breed
Older dogs are prone to dry noses and may need some help keeping them moist. Certain breeds, like French Bulldogs or Pugs, are brachycephalic (flat-faced), which can make it hard for them to lick their noses.
6. Health conditions
Nasal hyperkeratosis is a condition in which the body produces too much keratin, so the nose becomes excessively dry, cracked or crusty. It can also affect a dog’s paw pads.
Sometimes, an autoimmune disease such as discoid lupus or pemphigus could be the cause of a crusty nose. Illnesses such as dog flu and, less often, certain cancers can also affect the nose.
How to treat a dry nose in dogs
The right treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is. Before you put anything on your dog’s nose, it’s best to check with your vet.
Provide more water
- Keep your dog hydrated by making sure their water bowl is always full of fresh water.
- Add extra water bowls around your home.
- Offer an ice cube or some low-sodium chicken broth if your dog isn’t drinking enough.
Use a nose balm made for dogs
- Nose balm is a common treatment for a dry dog nose and can help keep it moist.
- Choose a balm formulated for dogs, and make sure it’s safe if licked, because your dog will lick it off. Snout Soother is one example of a product you can ask your vet about.
- Clean the nose before applying it, and wash your hands afterward.
- This is particularly useful for senior dogs and breeds prone to dry noses.
Protect your dog from the sun
- Limit time in strong sun if your dog has a pale or pink nose.
- Use a dog-friendly sunscreen, not a human one.
Allergy treatment
- If allergies may be causing your dog’s dry nose, try to remove the likely trigger and consult your vet.
- Your vet may recommend antihistamines or steroids to relieve the symptoms.
Prescription treatment
- If home care doesn’t work, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or ointments.
- Autoimmune disease may need immunosuppressant medication, and your vet may take a biopsy to confirm it.
- In severe hyperkeratosis, a vet may need to trim the excess tissue.
Home remedies for a dry dog nose
If your dog seems healthy and the nose is only mildly dry, these simple steps can help:
- Gently wipe the nose with a cool, wet cloth.
- Use a humidifier if the air in your home is dry.
- Move your dog’s bed away from heaters and air vents.
- Keep water easily available.
- Use a pet-safe balm in wind or cold.
Avoid human lotions, and don’t pick at any cracks or crusts. For oils and other kitchen remedies, ask your vet first, because your dog will swallow whatever you apply.
When to see a vet about your dog’s dry nose
| What you notice | What to do |
|---|---|
| Dry after a nap, then back to normal | Nothing needed |
| Nose stays dry for more than a day | Speak to your vet |
| Cracks, crusts, scabs or scales | Book a vet visit |
| Nose changes color or texture | Book a vet visit |
| Bleeding, painful sores or constant rubbing | See your vet promptly |
| Breathing problems, a lot of nasal discharge, lethargy or poor appetite | See your vet promptly |
| Dry gums, vomiting, sunken eyes or severe lethargy | See your vet right away |
Being able to tell the difference between a mildly dry nose and one that’s causing discomfort is key. How much of a concern it is depends on how long it lasts, what other symptoms come with it and how uncomfortable your dog seems.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dry nose a sign that my dog is sick?
Not necessarily. Many healthy dogs have dry noses at times. It’s more of a concern if it lasts or comes with other symptoms, such as low energy or poor appetite.
What can I put on my dog’s dry nose?
A balm made for dogs is usually the best choice. Check with your vet first, and avoid human lotions.
Can I cure my dog’s dry nose at home?
If the cause is minor, such as dry air, simple home care often helps. Conditions such as allergies, infections and autoimmune disease need a vet’s help.
Why is my dog’s nose dry and cracked?
Cracking can be caused by sunburn, dry conditions or hyperkeratosis, but it can also point to an autoimmune disease. It’s best to have your vet take a look.
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