Dog Dry Nose Treatment Options

Although your dog's nose may get dry here and there, a nose that remains dry for longer than a day probably needs some attention. When deciding on a dog dry nose treatment, first consider some important factors.

• Clean the nose first: Depending on the cause of your dog's dry nose, it is a good idea to clean their nose first to remove any external causes of the dryness. Take a cool, wet cloth and gently wipe their nose. Wait a little bit to see if their nose naturally moistens back up. If not, check some of the more frequent dry nose causes and treatments below.

• Use dog nose balm for a sunburned nose: It's possible your dog has a little sunburn on their nose causing it to dry out. Can you just use the same lotions you would use on your face? The answer is no; instead, use a dog nose balm (found at most pet stores) to help soothe their sunburnt schnoz. Since dogs like to lick their noses, you may find yourself having to apply the balm quite frequently. Check that the ingredients are safe if ingested. Your vet can also provide some recommendations including a prescription lotion.

• Overcome a dry nose caused by allergies: Your dog's dry nose could be a sign of a mild allergic reaction, says the American Kennel Club. If you can identify the item causing the allergic reaction, remove the item from your home and see if the condition improves. However, in some cases you may need to take your dog to the vet to get a prescription antihistamine or steroid to overcome the allergic reaction. When it comes to allergies, it's always better to be cautious and get your dog to the vet sooner rather than later.

• Make sure your dog is hydrated: Dog dry nose can sometimes be a sign of dehydration. When the temperatures are high for many days, make sure your dog always has fresh, cold water to encourage them to drink. Dogs can get dehydrated even on cooler days, so if you notice your four-legged friend isn't drinking much water, try getting them to lick an ice cube or some low-sodium chicken broth to stay hydrated.

• Check to make sure your dog isn't sick: In rare cases, a dry nose can be a sign of dog flu or an autoimmune disorder. Wag! notes that Pemphigus foliaceous, a group of autoimmune and skin diseases, can present itself as scabs or scales around the nose area. Akitas, Chow-chows and Dachshunds are some of the more commonly affected breeds, but any dog can develop an issue. If your dog is experiencing these signs, your dog dry nose treatment will have to be administered by a vet.

Before you ever apply anything to your dog's nose, make sure to consult your veterinarian. Every dog is unique, and what might have worked for one dog does not mean it will necessarily work for your dog. Your veterinarian may even let you know that you have nothing to be concerned about.

Your dog's nose provides an important way for them to interact with their environment. If their nose becomes dry, be sure to look for accompanying signs and seek a soothing treatment.