You’ve probably heard the old adage that a warm, dry nose is a sign of a sick dog. While that old wive’s tale is not entirely accurate, a consistently or excessively dry dog nose is something you should address. The temperature and moistness of a dog’s nose can vary throughout a given day, but in general, a dog’s nose should be damp most of the time.
Why is a wet nose important?
Dogs can smell up to 10,000 times better than humans, and their wet nose is vital to their survival. Scent is your dog’s primary sense—in fact, the olfactory region of their brain is 40 times larger than a human’s! Dogs are constantly experiencing the world around them by processing the smells in their environment.
A healthy dog nose is moist and shiny.
A healthy dog’s nose is wet because of a thin layer of mucus secreted by their nasal lining; scent particles are more easily trapped on this damp surface than a dry one. Frequent nose-licking also helps to keep their snout moist, and pulls those trapped scent particles into the dog’s mouth, where olfactory glands receive the smelly intel. Working dogs use their wet noses to detect bombs, drugs, missing people, even bed bugs, but even house pets rely on a healthy nose for optimal sniffing performance.
So What Does a Dry Nose Mean?
A dog’s nose may become dry at various times throughout the day or year for many reasons, but a dry nose doesn’t necessarily mean the dog is sick. However, if your pup’s nose appears rough, flaky, or cracked, their sense of smell will be affected. A crusty nose is also quite uncomfortable and should be remedied as soon as possible! To relieve a dry dog nose, it’s important to first diagnose what is causing the dryness, as this can sometimes indicate underlying health problems.
Common causes of a dry canine nose:
Dogs who nap in front of fireplaces or heaters may experience dry nose.
Exposure to the elements or dry air
Just like your skin, your dog’s nose can get sunburn when they’re spending a lot of time in the sun. Similarly, while you’re stocking up on lotions to relieve your dry winter skin, your dog’s skin can be much drier in the cold winter months. If they spend a lot of time lounging in front of a cozy source of warmth like a space heater or fireplace, their nose can dry out.
Allergies
Dogs can develop allergies to all sorts of things, sometimes even later in life. Since dogs experience their world nose-first, if they have an environmental allergy to something in their living space, chances are they’ll show a reaction on their nose. Allergic reactions include other symptoms like persistent sneezing, itching, hives, watery fluid from the nose, and ear infections.
Flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs cannot reach their nose with their tongue to moisten it.
Breed trait
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs have difficulty licking their noses because their snouts are so short. Other breeds, such as Poodles and Lhasa Apsos, are prone to blocked tear ducts, which can also dry the nose out.
Just woke up
Dog’s don’t lick their noses while they’re asleep. Without any other symptoms, a dry nose after waking up from a cat nap (yep, we said it) is usually nothing to worry about.
Dehydration
Often the result of strenuous exercise or hot temperatures, dehydration can cause a dog’s nose to dry out. Whenever you observe a dry nose, also check the gums—and get in the habit of monitoring your dog’s gums, especially if they lead an active lifestyle. Properly hydrated gums are pink and moist to the touch, while gums that are dry, tacky, and pale indicate dehydration. Keep fresh water available at all times, and remember: dogs should drink approximately one ounce of water per pound every day!
4 Steps to Remedy a Dry Dog Nose:
If your dog has developed a dry, cracked nose, start with these four steps to soothe your pup’s snout!
Step 1: Keep track of when your dog’s nose is dry or wet
The first thing you should do is start taking detailed notes whenever you notice your dog’s snout looks or feels a bit parched. Is their nose drier during certain times of the day or year? How often does it happen? How long does the dryness last? As you track nose condition, consider the common causes listed above to help you pinpoint the reason.
Step 2: Remove potential allergens
Allergies can be tricky to diagnose, since there are so many things which can trigger an allergic reaction and many different symptoms which can indicate allergies. However, you can start with some common allergens that may come into contact with your dog’s nose.
Plastic allergies are common in dogs, so if you’re using plastic food or water bowls, try swapping them for stainless steel bowls. If you’ve recently added a new type of toy to your dog’s collection, consider removing it to see if the dry nose clears up. Same with new household products like floor cleaners, carpet deodorizers, and laundry detergents, which can cause reactions in sensitive dogs. Anything that your dog might bump with their nose and which you’ve changed recently should be temporarily removed from their environment to pinpoint the source of new allergies.
Step 3: Soothe your dog’s nose with a balm
Snout Soother treats dry dog noses of all shapes and sizes!
Whether your dog needs temporary relief or a regular nose care regimen, an all-natural balm like Snout Soother® can help keep your dog’s nose moist and healthy. Bonus: Snout Soother® acts as a natural sunscreen and moisturizer formulated specifically for canine noses. Sensitive dogs are more prone to skin issues, so we carefully source every last ingredient to ensure that our vegan, all-natural dog products are 100% safe for all pups.
The best part? This balm really works: read hundreds of real customer testimonials and see for yourself!
Step 4: Watch out for other symptoms
Most dry dog noses can be solved by eliminating allergens and using an effective dog nose balm like Snout Soother®. If you don’t see any improvement after trying the steps above, consult with your veterinarian to explore allergy testing and get a checkup.
Take note of other symptoms like fever, dry eye, lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, or changes in appetite. In combination with a prolonged dry nose, symptoms like those could be a sign of more serious conditions requiring medical attention, including autoimmune conditions like discoid lupus erythematosus, pemphigus, or hyperkeratosis.
Are There Other Solutions for a Dry Dog Nose?
As with any canine condition, there are a plethora of options for treatment, but not all are advisable or effective. Some are not even safe for your dog!
Can I put Neosporin my dog’s nose?
The short answer is no. You should avoid putting Neosporin anywhere your dog can easily reach with its tongue, as it isn’t safe for ingestion. Dr. Danel Grimmett, a veterinarian with Sunset Veterinary Clinic in Oklahoma, told the AKC that while “small amounts of Neosporin are not harmful,” the main concern is the potential to impact healthy gut bacteria. Grimmett also explained that “a second potential cause of GI upset would be the lubricant base,” which could also cause vomiting or diarrhea. So stick with a dog-specific balm and save the Neosporin for your own scrapes.
Can Vaseline heal my dog’s nose?
Vaseline is another human-only remedy for chapped skin which should never be used on our pets—and maybe not on humans, either! Petroleum jelly is a synthetic product which can clog pores, exacerbating skin issues, and which won’t do much to moisturize an already-dry nose. Additionally, petroleum jelly causes lipoid pneumonia in dogs if too much is inhaled, which can happen if applied to a chronically dry dog nose!
Is baby oil safe for dogs?
Baby oil is safe to use on fur, but it should be applied conservatively. Because it often contains chemicals and fragrances that aren’t digestible, you should keep it away from the mouth or areas of frequent licking. As always, consult your vet about home remedies ahead of time.
Will coconut oil help my dog’s dry nose?
The benefits of coconut oil can be just as helpful for dogs as they are for humans. Organic coconut oil (a key ingredient in many of our products) offers powerful moisturizing qualities for your dog’s dry nose, skin, and hair. The biggest drawback of using coconut oil on your dog’s nose is the mess, which is why we’ve formulated our balms for quick absorption and minimal melting.
Snout Soother is the best solution for your dog’s dry nose!
There are many reasons for a dog’s dry nose, but most are easily treatable with nose balm and good habits. However, prolonged dryness, along with other symptoms, can indicate a more serious health issue, so pay attention to that sniffer. If you’re looking for a safe and effective all-natural solution to your dog’s dry nose, give our Snout Soother® a try—these results speak for themselves!
[These] before and after pictures are results after only 24 hours of using the Snout Soother. I couldn’t be happier, I really think he’s a happier dog because of the relief he has from Snout Soother! — Emily; Boston, MA
When we started to notice our dog’s nose was dry, crusty and parts of it were peeling off – we knew we had to do something. We tried every trick in the book. Nothing helped.
After the first application of SnoutSoother, I could see it looked less crusty immediately. After a week of daily applications, I could see a huge improvement. After a few weeks, her nose wasn’t even crusty anymore. We have been using the Snout Soother religiously for about a year now and haven’t looked back. No more crust, no more peeling, no more dryness.— Lee-Ann; Vancouver, BC
Hi Joan!
We recommend applying the balm 2-3 times per day, to start. After the healing begins, you can then decrease the number of applications. Once the area is fully healed, the balm can be used as a preventative. You may use the stick or your fingers.
To help with ensuring the balm remains on the affected area, we recommend either using dog socks/booties, a wrap/shirt, or some form of positive distraction. A tasty gnawer, a kong filled with peanut butter, a favorite toy, or even waiting until your pup falls asleep can all be helpful!
Let us know if you have any other questions or need further assistance. All our best to you and your pup!
Best,
Sarah
My 8 month old puppy’s nose is half dry, basically right down the middle. Have you ever heard of this? I bought your nose soother & travel stick. We’ve been putting coconut oil on it and will try your product soon. He hates his nose & paws touched, so its kind of hard. Do we rub his nose on the nose soother can or put it on our fingers? Nothing else seems to be wrong with him. Thank you.
My dog has a dry nose. We have gotten a new furnace and the air is dry. What can I do to help him. He is 12 years old and I feel so bad for him. He eats well and drinks like always has. Please let me know what I -can do.
Your information was very helpful my dog just started to get a dry nose on top she is 7 years old never had that problem she lives to lay out in the sun and we h have had 90 degree weather the door is always open for her to come in and out when she wants I’m thinking about southern might be what she needs thank you you for your help
Start applying Snout Soother right away! https://naturaldogcompany.com/product-category/nose/
Hi
I just notice my dog has a dry nose and now she has a spot on her nose is peeling and im worry. What is your best advise?
Only on day 2 and used it 3 times!! As I was rubbing it into my dogs nose flakes of the dry, crusty part was flaking off. Cannot wait to see how his nose looks in a week!!
I bought Snout Soother a few years ago. I love that it’s scent free and filled with natural emollients. I saw results on my Buddy fast, and he tries to lick it off even though I use it sparingly lol.
Natural Dog Company organic healing balms will still work even if most of it has been licked off! The key is to apply as often as possible – especially before bedtime when bodies are in healing mode. It is also a beneficial time because your dog is relaxed and less likely to resist. The more time the product is allowed to penetrate, the better results you will get. Distractions work wonders! Try a giving your dog a Gnawer to chew on, treats, mealtime, a dab of peanut butter, belly rubs or play with them for a few minutes while the balm works it’s magic!
What do you do when your dog licks it off?
Hi, there. Our products are perfectly safe to use on dogs of all ages!
My dog is old will that effect anything
Hi Laura,
In the article we claim that you can try the products “risk-free” because we back everything we make with a complete 120-day satisfaction guarantee. If you not satisfied, you can return the product for a refund.
These posts are from a year to 2 years ago is the offer still open for free trial and does that include shipping and handling?
Thank you,
Abspawlutely! We have lots of tips and tricks available on our FAQ page. If you have additional questions, please email us at [email protected]
What steps can I take to keep my dog from licking your product off?
You may be referring to “snow nose”…where a dog’s nose can lose pigment during certain months. Snout Soother has been known to help with this issue, however there is no guarantee.
Have you found in your experience that a moist nose keeps pigment better?
My Max developed dry snout and has had it for 4 days.
Thank you for your complimentary
Snout soother
KM
Hi Cassandra, you need our organic Snout Soother. It’s an all-natural balm specially designed for treating dogs suffering from dry nose issues. It’s deeply healing, soothing, completely safe and scent-free. It will heal his nose and work perfectly as a maintenance for keeping it healthy.
You can order directly from our website here: https://naturaldogcompany.com/product-category/products/snout-soother/
🙂
We ship all over the world!
where can you buy snout soother.
we have 2 year old pitbull in summer he gets sunburn nose.
now its winter its dry little scabbed.
thanks for information
Hi, Really a very interesting article, I apply almond oil on time to my bulldogs but I will try to get this product.I do not know if I can get it from spain
Hi Ralph,
You should try our Skin Soother for the sore on her leg. It is a different formulation than the Snout Soother and includes natural ingredients that effectively treat skin conditions and wounds. We hate to hear about pups suffering, but are thankful that we are able to provide 100% natural products to help! Best of luck to you and your furbaby 🙂
Hi our dog is now 13 years old ,her
nose is dry but more concerning is a sore on her leg that she constantly licks believed to be stemmed from arthritis . Would your snout soother work for both her leg and nose or do you recamend a separate cream for her leg
My dog has been sick he was diagnosed with Vestibular Disease his nose has been dry & today I noticed dried crusty in his nose what are thing I can do to help his nose?
You really should not be using human products on your dog, especially it’s nose! Our Snout Soother is specifically designed to be used on dog noses because it is 100% NATURAL, non-toxic, super healing and scent free. It comes recommended by Vets all over the world. Please consider this before applying products to your dog’s nose…
I have been using neosporin and it has made a big difference but I have to run it in and then it does work for a few days and have to reapply after four or five days but was looking myself for the best remedies myself and have also used the lotion for my wife’s feet that is really think and like a balm like substance but was concerned about using this since it has got a smell to it.
Yes! We have had so many success stories with using Snout Soother even when all the above mentioned products did not work. We strongly recommend trying our Snout Soother – it comes with a complete satisfaction guarantee!
Hi,
My Zoey has been diagnosed with canine lupus.
Because it only effects her hose ( is always raw and sore) I have been giving her niacicimide, antiobotics, vitiamin e and fish oil.( sugested by the vet)
Nothing has helped.
I have tried coconut oil and also anti rejection drug applied topically.
None of these things have helped her.
Do you think you snout smoother will help her or at least not hurt her?
Thank you,
Diane
Thanks, this site is really useful
Hi Sharon,
Dogs are all unique, just as humans are, and allergies vary greatly. There is always the possibility of an allergic reaction in all scenarios (environment, food, etc). For a topical product like ours, one should spot test a small area first to see if there is any reaction. Although an allergic reaction would be very uncommon, no harm in proceeding with caution. Thanks for your interest!
Kind Regards,
Gabby
My dog has allergies to grass, trees, plants and many foods. Your product has natural and plant based products in it. Do you think using your product on my pet might have a negative effect due to his allergies?
Hi Bev,
We suggest applying the Snout Soother right before feeding time or going out for a walk. That way it gives it some time to soak in. You m ay also try applying it and giving him his favorite toy, a kong with peanut butter, or lots of belly rubs 🙂 Please see our FAQ page for more info. https://naturaldogcompany.com/frequently-asked-questions/#toggle-id-2
Kind Regards,
Gabby Benavides
Hi Dan,
Snout Soother should definitely help with Oscar’s dry nose. Please feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any questions.
Kind Regards,
Gabby
I have this stuff and my dog wont leave it on his nose how do i keep him from licking it off ?very time I put it on he rubs it off I cant get it well if it wont stay on his nose ,his nose is bad and cracked where he has set by our wood stove all winter
My dog oscar has developed a dry nose and I would like to try your snout so other to see if it helps.
Hi Tiffany & Tito,
I am so sorry you to hear about what you are going through. I would suggest trying to locate another vet, especially if anything worsens. Maybe even giving them a call and just letting them know of Tito’s condition. We wish and hope you get to feeling much better Tito!
Kind Regards,
Gabby Benavides
My dog Tito is a 9 yr old Chiawhuahua with epilepsy and has been on meds for several yrs. i hve noticed he is drinking a ton, peeing way more than usual. He is normaly a bit grouchy, but he is out right mean unless u r one of his people. There r probablly only a handful of people. I hve a feeling his anal glands need to be done as this is a regular thing. Approx 2.5 weeks ago I noticed my babies nose getting dry. Today my son pointed out that Titos nose, parts of it were white. Its usually black, chunks of his nose are falling off. He has been drinking constantly. My last little grl died from kidney failure. He is still eating his small portion of dog food and as I hve trying to see how much hes eating, i think hes eating a bit of our little grls. He is not himself! Because of how quickly I lost my 2.5 lb baby grl in a week. I did everything I could to save her! If anybobdy possibly knows if the dry nose could hve anything to do with these other symptoms please let me know. My vet is on mat leave and Im lost without her.
Tiffany and Lil man, sick Tito
We offer a free sample to breeders of Brachycephalic breeds. You can fill out the form below and request the sample in the comment box. If you aren’t a breeder, we offer the travel size stick or tin for $4.95. Thanks!
https://naturaldogcompany.com/partner-with-us/
How do I try the snout soother for free?
So sorry to hear about you doggie. Snout Soother would be the perfect product to help with the dry nose on your frenchie baby.
Hi,
DO you find doggies that are cancer patients use this product on their nose for dry nose?
Please advise… my doggie has a tumor in the nose and we just finished palliative radiation therapy for my frenchie.
Thanks!
Hi Lynda,
Here are the ingredients in Snout Soother:
ORGANIC HEMPSEED OIL | Potent antioxidant with prostaglandin mediating and anti-inflammatory properties
ORGANIC SHEA NUT BUTTER | Humectant and emollient, anti-inflammatory with natural sunscreen
ORGANIC COCONUT OIL | Heavy duty moisturizer, proven analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal
ORGANIC GRAPESEED OIL | Great source of healing polyphenols, super moisturizing and fast penetrating
ORGANIC JOJOBA OIL | Bacteriostatic fungicidal moisturizer that mimics skin’s sebum, rich with minerals
KUKUI NUT OIL | Natural sunscreen and homeostatic moisturizer that acts as a carrier oil to penetrate skin
CANDELILLA WAX | Vegan alternative to beeswax with high ester, fatty acid and moisture retaining properties
NATURAL VITAMIN E | Extreme antioxidant, preservative, boosts collagen production and cell regeneration
CHAMOMILE | Remarkable medicinal properties, terpenoids that heal wounds, soothing for skin irritations
ROSEMARY EXTRACT| Natural preservative, anti-inflammatory and potent antioxidant
What r th ingredients of Snout Soother?