Why Does Your Dog Have a Runny Nose?

Have you ever noticed your pooch sniffing away with a bit of a runny nose and wondered, “Is this normal?”. While a dog’s runny nose is often nothing to worry about, it can sometimes be a sign of something more serious.

Why does your dog have a runny nose?

A runny nose in dogs can vary in consistency and colour, each with its own potential cause. From clear, watery drips to thick, coloured mucus, your dog’s nose might be trying to tell you something about their health. Here are some common reasons for your dog’s runny nose:

Excitement 

Did you know that a clear, watery drip could just mean your dog is excited or active? If they’ve been zooming around the garden or are eagerly awaiting their walk, their nose might start to drip. After an intense play session, it’s also pretty common for dogs to have a bit of extra moisture coming from their nose as their body cools down.

Cold Weather

Ever noticed your dog’s nose dripping more in winter? The colder months can lead to increased nasal moisture as their nose works to warm the chilly air they breathe. This is generally nothing to worry about, especially if your pup is otherwise healthy and happy.

Allergies or Irritants

Did you know dogs can suffer from allergies just like us? Pollen, dust or even certain cleaning products can irritate their noses and make them run. This type of discharge is usually clear, and you might notice your dog sneezing, rubbing their eyes or scratching their skin more than usual. Keeping your pooch away from potential allergens and using pet-safe cleaning products can help.

Respiratory Infections

Noticed your dog’s nasal discharge is thick, yellow, green or cloudy? It might be a sign of a respiratory infection. Dogs can catch colds, kennel cough or even canine flu, especially if they’ve been around other dogs. Keep an eye out for other symptoms like coughing, sneezing, a drop in energy or loss of appetite. If these show up, it’s best to have your vet check them out.

Foreign Objects in the Nose

A runny nose, especially just on one side? That could mean they’ve got something stuck up their nostril, like a blade of grass or a small twig. Dogs love to sniff around, but sometimes that curiosity can get them into trouble! If they’re pawing at their face or sneezing a lot, it might be time for a vet visit to remove whatever’s causing the issue.

When should you be concerned?

A runny nose is usually nothing to worry about, but it depends on the situation. If the discharge is clear and happens from time to time, it’s probably nothing to stress about. But if the discharge is:

• Thick, coloured or smells bad
• Accompanied by coughing, fever or difficulty breathing
• Lasting for more than a few days
• Only coming from one side of the nose

… it’s time to take your dog to the vet.