Runny Nose in Dogs: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention How to Treat and Prevent Runny Nose in Cats

Dogs' runny noses can be brought on by a number of things, such as allergies, illnesses, and contact with irritants. While a runny nose may not seem like a serious issue, it can be a sign of an underlying problem and should be addressed by a veterinarian. 

In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for runny noses in dogs, as well as tips for preventing and managing this common issue.

Causes of Runny Nose In Dogs

A dog's runny nose may result from a number of factors, such as:

• Allergies: Pollens, mildew, dust, and even some foods are among the factors that might cause allergies in dogs.

• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause a runny nose in dogs.

• Environmental factors: Exposure to cold or dry air, or changes in temperature can cause a runny nose in dogs.

• Nasal tumors: These are uncommon, but they can give dogs a runny nose.

• Foreign object: A foreign object in the nose can cause a runny nose in dogs.

However, consult your vet to determine the cause of your dog's runny nose and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Clinical Symptoms

Depending on the underlying cause, a dog's clinical symptoms of a runny nose can vary. However, they may include:

• Clear, thin, or thick nasal discharge: This discharge may be constant or sporadic, and it may be more noticeable while the dog is awake and engaged in an activity.

• Sneezing: Sneezing can be caused by irritation in the nasal passages and may be accompanied by a runny nose.

• Nasal congestion: Dogs with runny noses may have difficulty breathing through their nose and may make snorting or whistling sounds when breathing.

• Loss of appetite: Dogs with runny noses may lose their appetite due to the discomfort caused by nasal congestion.

• Coughing or gagging: In some cases, a runny nose in dogs can lead to coughing or gagging as the dog tries to clear the nasal passages.

• Swelling of the dog’s face or eyes: Swelling of the dog’s face or eyes can occur as a result of a runny nose and can be caused by inflammation.

• Lethargy: Dogs with runny noses may be less active than normal and may not be interested in playing or going for walks.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a runny nose in dogs can be made by observing the symptoms and conducting a physical examination. The veterinarian may also take a sample of the discharge from the nose to test for bacteria or viruses. In some cases, further testing, such as imaging or blood work, may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the runny nose.

Treatment

Treatment options for a runny nose in dogs will vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:

• Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is the cause of the runny nose, antibiotics will be prescribed to clear the infection.

• Anti-inflammatory medications: If the runny nose is caused by inflammation, such as from allergies, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed.

• Decongestants: If the runny nose is caused by nasal congestion, decongestants for dogs may be prescribed to help clear the nasal passages.

• Immune system modulators: For chronic or recurrent runny noses caused by chronic inflammation or an auto-immune disorder, these immune system modulator medications can be prescribed to help manage the underlying condition.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a tumor or other growth in the dog’s system that is causing a runny nose.

How to Prevent Runny Nose In Dogs

There are several ways to prevent runny nose in dogs, including:

• Keep the dog's living area clean and well-ventilated to reduce exposure to allergens and irritants.

• Provide a healthy diet with all the necessary nutrients to support the dog's immune system.

• Keep the dog's vaccinations up-to-date to prevent infection.

• Keep the dog away from second-hand smoke, chemicals, and other irritants.

• Keep the dog inside during extreme weather conditions, such as cold or hot temperatures and high humidity.

• If the dog has a persistent runny nose, consult a vet to rule out any underlying medical disorders that might be causing the issue.

However, some breeds, like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, are more prone to respiratory issues and may require more care and attention to prevent a runny nose.