Why Are Dogs’ Noses Wet? (Vet Answer)

 The first bit of any dog you’re likely to encounter is its nose since all dogs will always introduce themselves and investigate their nose first! The nose is a vital sensory organ for dogs, providing incredible amounts of information about their surroundings – especially (but not only) the smells! We often take noses for granted but dogs’ noses grant them serious superpowers and there’s a lot going on in there.

From our perspective (commonly when that nose gets shoved in your face!), most dogs have cold and wet noses, but why is this the case? Read on for more information!

What Is a Normal Nose for a Dog?

Most dog noses are wet and cold, most of the time. However, just like dogs in general, they do vary a lot from individual to individual, and from time to time.

An old saying advised us that a wet nose is healthy, and a dry nose means the dog is poorly. This is not true and all you need to know is what is normal for your dog. Some dogs naturally have wet noses, while some naturally have drier noses. Many dogs, especially as they age, get dry and sometimes slightly roughened or crusty noses after a lifetime of hard sniffing. Usually, this is nothing to worry about, although if you are worried about any redness or soreness then it is worth contacting your veterinarian.

The specific feel of a nose will vary depending on lots of factors like exercise, time of day, temperature, hydration, and humidity. Dogs also lick their nose a lot and this can change things too! All these variables are totally normal. Noses might dry out after sleep or when your dog is relaxed. Alternatively, the nose may be wetter after strenuous exercise.

Normal wet noses should be covered in a light covering of thin, clear mucus. Again, it is worth observing what is normal for your dog.

Is There a Problem With Your Dog’s Nose?

Many possible problems can affect the nose and may need a proper investigation by your veterinarian, although these are mostly quite unusual.

Consistently dry noses may be seen as part of a wider illness (dehydration and fever for example), but your dog will typically be showing other symptoms, more than just a dry nose. These might include lethargy or lack of appetite.

Noses can be involved in wider skin problems, such as allergic reactions (allergies), skin infections, and auto-immune diseases. In these situations, the nose or skin around it might be red, sore, crusty, angry looking, or abnormally discharging with pus or green tinges.

What if my dog’s nose has lots of discharge?

Normal wet noses should be covered in clear mucus. Again, it is worth observing what is normal for your dog, but any changes in this mucus or particularly any discharges from the nose might be worth contacting your veterinarian about if you are worried. Lots of discharge (snot, boogers, or sometimes blood) from the nostrils is not normal and should be checked by your veterinarian where possible. You may also notice this crusting as it dries around the nose. Small amounts of clear discharge are normal, but any other color of mucus is not normal.

If you are concerned about your dog, especially if they are showing any of the signs of ill health listed above, it is important to contact your local veterinarian for advice sooner rather than later.