Why do dogs get chapped noses?
You may be worried about your dog's nose. It is looking dried out and you aren’t sure whether or not you should take her to the vet. Don’t worry, there are many reasons your dog's nose could be dried out, keep reading below.
1. Allergies
Your dog may have an allergy to pollen, mold, or their food. Over the counter antihistamines may be enough to help your pup but if not you can bring them to the vet where they may prescribe something.
2. Sunburn
Dogs with a lighter coat are more prone to sunburn, but they aren’t the only dogs who get them. You can use dog safe sunscreen to prevent sunburn but if this isn’t an option you can use baby sunscreen as long as it doesn’t contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) because these ingredients are toxic to dogs.
3. Dehydration
Dogs can become easily dehydrated with strenuous exercise or in hot weather. In order to prevent dehydration, it is important to provide them with cool water, preferably with electrolytes and watch for signs of dehydration. It is important to highlight that water alone does not hydrate them.
4. Fleas
If your dog has fleas, they may have an overactive immune system. To check for fleas you should look for black specks that look like dirt on the skin. If your dog has fleas, vacuum your house daily and treat your dog accordingly.
5. Autoimmune Disease
This isn’t likely and you shouldn’t jump to conclusions with this one. A dry nose may imply that your dog is suffering from Discoid Lupus Erythematosus or Pemphigus. These can cause chronic dry nose. If you are worried your furry friend is suffering from these diseases, you should bring them to the vet to check.
6. Brachycephalic Breed
Certain Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, have skulls that don’t allow them to lick their nose properly. They can develop crusty or cracked noses, which is normal in these breeds.
Usually a dry nose in a dog isn’t something to worry about. Be sure to keep an eye on your furry friend and take them to the vet if this becomes a long-term issue. Keep your dog hydrated and their nose moisturized and they should be back to normal in no time!
