What does a cold wet nose on a dog mean?
A dog’s wet nose is not the best barometer for health and should not be relied on. Although most people say a healthy nose should be “cold and wet,” it is actually more appropriate to describe it as moist.
A wet, runny nose is a sign of trouble and should be checked out by a veterinarian. By the way, a normal moist nose doesn’t always mean a dog is healthy; if your dog has a moist nose but seems lethargic, or in discomfort or pain, consult your vet.
Conversely, a dry nose doesn’t always signal illness. Dogs just waking from sleep often have a warm, relatively dry nose. And, some dogs, like bulldogs, just have dry noses that even chap and crack.
Despite what many people think, you cannot determine your dog’s temperature by feeling his nose. A warm nose does not mean your dog has a fever. Only a properly used thermometer can tell you that.
So remember, if your dog shows discomfort, lethargy or loss of appetite, you’ll need to have your local vet examine him, regardless of the condition of his nose.
If you see a nasal discharge, swelling, or detect unpleasant odors emanating from your dog’s nose, or if he has difficulty breathing, get him checked out right away. It could mean the presence of a foreign object, tumor or infection.
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February 26th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
My dog seems to have a crust on the upper part of his nose. What might this be. He digs a lot. He is a 6 year old, fairly large Cocker Spaniel.