Your dog’s nose is pretty remarkable, given all of its functions. Generally, a healthy dog will have a moist wet nose. However… what happens if your dog’s nose is warm!! Does this mean that your pet is sick…
In this article, we will discuss what causes a warm, dry nose, and if you should be concerned!!
How does a dog’s nose work?
A dog’s nose is so delicate and sensitive that it can pick up tiny particles of the smell, which humans cannot detect. This is because a dog’s nose contains nearly 300 million olfactory receptors compared to 6 million in humans.
When a dog’s nose is warm and dry it loses some of its powers. A wet nose has a better sense of smell because the tiny odor particles can stick to your dog’s nose.
What does a dog’s nose tell us about their health?
There is a myth that if a dog has a hot or dry nose, they are sick, and if they have a cold, wet nose they are is in perfect health.
This is not the best way for measuring your dog’s health though.
In fact, the condition and temperature of your dog’s nose can fluctuate from day to day and even hour to hour.
Steven Marks, an associate professor at the North Carolina State University of Veterinary Medicine, conducted research which confirmed that “A dog in perfect health may have a hot, dry nose. Similarly, a sick dog may have a cold, wet nose.“
However, the problem arises when your dog has a warm nose coupled with other symptoms…
Warm nose and a lack of energy
What if your dog has a warm nose and a lack of energy? A warm, dry nose itself is not harmful to your dog, however, if it is accompanied by lethargy, it is an indication that your dog is sick. If lethargy and the warm nose are further combined with sneezing, poor appetite, or anything else, it is best to contact your vet.
Warm nose and panting
If your dog has a warm, dry nose and is panting, it is a sign that he is suffering from heatstroke. However, this condition can also mean that your dog has a fever or is dehydrated.
If you know how to monitor your dog’s temperature, then measure it otherwise, make an appointment with your vet. In the event of heat stroke, give your dog plenty of cool water and put him in front of a fan.
Warning signs that your dog is sick
Always look for other signs about your dog’s health. If your dog shows other symptoms along with the hot, dry nose, he may be suffering from an illness. The symptoms to look for are:
- Your dog doesn’t drink water, and his nose is dry and hot.
- Your dog doesn’t eat enough, he misses his mealtime, and his nose is dry.
- If your dog’s nose is hot and crusty, it is a sign that they have a problem with the tear ducts in their eyes.
- A dry nose, along with fever and lethargy, is a sign of illness.
- A hot nose along with a reddish, brown, green, or yellow nasal discharge, is a sign of infection.
- A peeled red nose means that the nose is sunburned.
If your dog is displaying these symptoms along with a hot, dry nose, you should see your vet. Early diagnosis and good treatment can prevent this condition from getting worse.
Treatment
Treatment of your dog’s nose is highly dependent on what is causing the issue. Your vet can guide you on whether your dog needs antibiotics or surgery.
How to Keep your Dog Nose Healthy?
Now that you know what causes a dry nose the next question is how do you keep your dog’s nose healthy?
- Check their nose daily and look for symptoms
- Watch for any changes in behavior and other signs of illness
- Make sure your dog gets a well-balanced diet
- Give them plenty of water
- Make sure they get plenty of rest every day
- Take your dog for a regular checkup to the vet
- Don’t let them out in extreme weather conditions
- Make sure your dog has some shade on hot, sunny days
If your dog is in good health, a checkup once a year is sufficient. Your vet will judge your pet’s overall health and make sure your dog receives all the necessary vaccinations that will keep him healthy.
Remember, if your dog does not have any accompanying symptoms he will recover in a few days, as the condition is most likely temporary.
Frequently asked questions
Why dog nose get warm and dry after surgery?
If your dog undergoes surgery, you should be aware that his nose will be affected afterward. This is because, under anesthesia, a dog loses its ability to warm up and cool down. If your dog’s nose is hot, go ahead and check his body temperature. Also, make sure your dog stays hydrated because it will help him in the healing process.
