Our pups’ noses help them navigate the world, (Trusted Source) so as pet parents, we want our dogs’ noses to be in tip-top shape. When you notice something is off, such as a very dry nose or nasal discharge, you might get concerned and wonder if a disease is the cause. A vet will be your best resource for an official diagnosis, but consider this a useful resource about what types of nasal planum diseases are out there and why they occur.
Many conditions can affect a human’s nose — from colds to allergies and more; the same is true for dogs. The nasal planum, or top edge of the nose, is a typical place to notice potential issues. Below are a few of the most common nasal planum conditions in dogs.
Mucocutaneous pyoderma (MCP) is a bacterial infection that typically affects a dog’s lip folds but can sometimes involve their nose. German shepherds and German shepherd mixes are most prone to MCP. If your pup has this condition, they may have one or more of the following symptoms:
It’s fairly simple to treat mild MCP, and vets have tools that allow them to treat more serious cases. If your dog has any skin lesions around their nose, it’s best to bring your dog to the vet for an exam. There are many diseases of the nasal planum, many of which can look similar, so it’s always best to get a formal diagnosis.
If your dog is diagnosed with MCP, then treatment usually involves:
Dermatophytosis, also known as ringworm, is an infection of the skin, (Trusted Source) hair, or claws caused by one of three fungal species: Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Ringworm can pass from humans to animals and vice versa. Pets that are considered immunocompromised and Yorkshire terriers are most susceptible. But, dogs can also pick it up from digging in the soil or going to the beach. Look out for:
👉 Check out the video below for more information about ringworm in your pets, including how to spot it.
Ringworm can clear up without treatment in healthy adult dogs, but it’s best to let your vet be the judge of that. And since it is contagious to humans and other pets, you’ll want to seek out medical advice.
Our vet Dr. Diener notes that an examination of the skin lesions and a fungal culture are often required in order to diagnose ringworm in pets. To take the fungal culture, your pup’s vet will pluck some hairs around your pup’s lesions and place them on a culture plate. The vet will then look at the plate each day for up to 10 days to evaluate the sample for any color changes or fungal growth.
In the meantime, your vet will probably start your dog on some therapies. Your pup’s treatment plan could include:
👉 Your veterinarian can give you information about treatments that may benefit your pup and let you know which precautions you should take to mitigate the risk of spread.
Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is an autoimmune disease in which a dog’s own immune system attacks and kills cells within their skin, often around their nose. The precise cause of DLE isn’t known, but UV light seems to trigger it. Doggies who live in sunnier areas may be more prone to it, as are breeds like:
Clinical signs of DLE can include one or more of the following symptoms:
To diagnose DLE, your vet will biopsy one or more of the skin lesions and send the samples to a pathologist for review. This is the only way to properly diagnose the disease. Though DLE isn’t curable, it is manageable with the help of a vet.
Common treatment options often include:
Pemphigus is another autoimmune disease that affects a dog’s skin. There are two main types: pemphigus foliaceus (PF) and pemphigus erythematosus (PE). Though PF is one of the more common autoimmune diseases in dogs, it’s still relatively rare overall.
PF doesn’t typically affect dogs until they hit middle age. Some breeds are more susceptible, including:
A vet should be the one to diagnose it, but you can keep an eye out for these symptoms:
It can be difficult to diagnose pemphigus. Your vet will likely need to biopsy some of your dog’s skin lesions to determine if pemphigus is the cause.
Long-term therapies are par for the course when it comes to pemphigus. Treatment can be expensive and involve some of the following:
👉 It’s vital to work with your vet, as they will be able to determine the correct treatment plan for your pup.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a cancerous tumor that develops in some of the first layers of your pup’s skin. It’s the most common type of cancer that affects the nasal planum in dogs and cats. The nose, including the nasal planum, can develop tumors.
Like other cancers, SCC has no clear cause. According to our vet Dr. Diener, it’s most often seen in older, geriatric dogs. Fox red Labrador retrievers and English cream golden retrievers tend to develop this cancer more often than other breeds.
Some clear and common symptoms include:
Vets will often diagnose SCC through a biopsy or cytology (a procedure that removes and evaluates fewer cells than biopsies). If your dog has SCC, there are some steps you and your vet can take to treat the cancer.
Dog nose hyperkeratosis occurs when the surface of a pup’s nose experiences an overgrowth of skin cells, or keratin.
Unlike other nasal planum diseases found in pups, dog nose hyperkeratosis isn’t typically too concerning. But you’ll still want to get it treated. It’s most common in breeds like American and French bulldogs, cocker spaniels, pugs, and boxers. Middle-aged pets also seem to be more prone. The first step is noticing symptoms, some of which can include:
Dog nose hyperkeratosis is a manageable but incurable condition. Vets may recommend a soothing balm, which can help reduce bothersome symptoms. Our vet’s favorite balm to try is Dermoscent’s Bio Balm.
Nasal hypopigmentation or depigmentation is sometimes called “Dudley nose.” It’s strictly limited to a dog’s nasal planum and may be a form of vitiligo. Researchers haven’t yet pinpointed the cause. Some breeds, like Fox red Labrador retrievers, English cream golden retrievers, and Siberian huskies, seem to be most susceptible. Symptoms may include:
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this condition. The good news? It’s a cosmetic issue — your pup has no idea and can live a normal life.
Even if your dog’s nose feels dry or looks crusty, a nasal planum disease may not be the cause. Other potential culprits include:
Below are some tips and tricks to help keep your pup’s nose as healthy as possible:
Use sunscreen — A dog-friendly sunscreen like this one is a great option.
Avoid products made for humans — Though Neosporin, rubbing alcohol, and Vaseline may help your skin heal, they’re not recommended for dogs. Pet-friendly balms and medications are always best.
Leave out plenty of water — Dehydration can dry out your dog’s nose and lead to other illnesses. Ensure their water bowl is always full.
Keep your dog’s nose clean — Cleaning your pup’s nose with water and a gentle, pet-friendly cleanser, particularly after they dig in the dirt or go to the beach, can help mitigate issues like ringworm.
Clean your home — Regular cleaning of your home can get rid of allergens and reduce the risk of parasites.
See a vet — Many nasal planum diseases are easier to treat if they’re detected early. See a vet if something seems up with your pup’s nose.
Give your pup the gift of good nutrition — Make sure you’re feeding your dog a balanced diet full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for skin (and nose) health.
If your pup has a dry nose, a balm might be particularly effective. But depending on what’s going on, these products may or may not be beneficial to your dog. Some of our favorites to explore with your vet include the following:
Natural Dog Company’s Snout Soother serves as a moisturizer for your pup’s nose, protecting it from dryness and irritation. The plant-based balm can help treat broken skin, overgrowth, hyperkeratosis, and dry skin. Snout Soother is a cinch to apply — simply use your fingers to rub the balm onto your dog’s nose. Vegan ingredients include jojoba oil, rosemary, and vitamin E.
Though people often use Musher’s Paw Wax to protect their pup’s paws, some people swear by using it on their dog’s nose. It’s moisturizing, protects against cracks, and can even help soothe and soften the skin. And it’s made with nontoxic, plant-based ingredients.
It depends on the severity and type of nasal planum disease that affects your dog. Sometimes, regular cleaning will clear up the condition. Other times, life-long immunosuppressant therapy may be necessary.
Dogs with nasal dermatitis have a skin disease that affects the nose or surrounding area.
The application of a soothing balm can help treat — but not cure — nasal hyperkeratosis in doggies.
The causes of nose infections aren’t always known. Some breeds are more susceptible to certain conditions. For example, chow chows and American bulldogs are at a higher risk for pemphigus. And the frequency of many nose infections increases as a pup gets older. UV ray exposure may make certain conditions worse, though your vet can provide more information. In the meantime, mitigation efforts, such as using sunscreen on your dog, keeping your home clean, and regularly grooming and bathing your pets, can reduce their likelihood of developing nose-related issues.
A vet may prescribe topical medications, creams, steroids, or shampoos to help your dog. Pet-friendly balms may also help.
