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Does your dog have a dry nose? What are the causes?
April 30, 2024
The dog's nose is made up of 300 million olfactory receptors that capture the odor particles in the environment. The moisture of the dog's snout increases the animal's ability to perceive odors while also regulating body temperature. A dry nose in dogs can in some cases be a symptom of a latent disease, but in healthy animals it could be linked to certain behavioral habits.
Intense physical activity, play, staying in particularly dry and hot environments, naps, breed and age are just some of the reasons that can explain a dry nose in your dog. Remember to always evaluate any symptoms that seem strange to you in order to act in time before it is too late. Take your faithful four-legged friend to a specialist and have him thoroughly examined.
Your dog's dry nose. When to worry and what to do.
Dry skin on the nose may not be a problem if the condition resolves itself within a few days. However, if it is accompanied by loss of appetite and fatigue, it could indicate one of the following diseases:
Hyperkeratosis. The progressive thickening of the skin due to an excess of keratin causes roughness, swelling and cracks in the nose and pads, exposing the tissues to possible infections.
Autoimmune diseases. These are mainly pemphigus foliaceus and systemic lupus erythematosus, the symptoms of which are cracking of the nose, loss of appetite, drowsiness, diarrhea, weight loss, skin ulcers, scaling of the ears, paws and mouth.
Leishmaniasis. The contagious and often fatal disease manifests itself in weight loss, hair loss around the nose and eyes, eye problems, joint swelling, chronic fatigue, abnormal nail growth. If not treated properly, it can affect the liver, spleen or lymph nodes (although rarely), causing them to enlarge. The gradual decline in blood cells also makes the animal vulnerable to various infections (which is why the disease can be fatal).
Distemper. It manifests itself in obvious dermatitis on the nose, accompanied by fever, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, tremors, weight loss, cough and respiratory problems.
Zinc deficiency. The mineral is crucial for the pet's skin health and immune system. It promotes proper wound healing and stimulates collagen formation, reducing oxidative stress. It helps fight inflammation, strengthens cognitive functions, improves memory and is involved in hormone production. A possible deficiency manifests itself in dermatitis on the pads, around the eyes, mouth and nose, accompanied by loss of appetite, hair loss and diarrhea.
If one or more alarming symptoms, discharge or retained bleeding occur, or if the dog's dry nose seems unusual to you, you should contact the veterinarian immediately in order to intervene in time with targeted therapies and prevent sad endings.
Natural remedies for treating dry nose in dogs
Hydrate the dry and cracked nose with a special balm for dogs to get immediate relief from pain and itching. Based on natural ingredients, it does not contain any potentially harmful substances for the animal that could be ingested when licking the nose.
In addition, before and after spending time outdoors, it can be useful to apply a specific sunscreen combined with a moisturizing butter for all seasons. Which products to prefer? Those enriched with ingredients that have a moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial action, such as:
olive oil
Shea Butter
castor oil
Cocoa butter
Shea butter
Moringa oil
All products containing petrolatum should be avoided as they could cause adverse reactions in the animal, such as vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, according to recent studies, mineral oils and paraffins tend to accumulate in the body over time, while petroleum jelly interferes with the normal functions of the sense of smell. It is therefore better to prefer completely natural creams and balms, which are effective and have no contraindications or side effects.
Why is it important to take care of your dog’s nose
A well-cared-for nose protects the dog from the risk of secondary infections and inflammations. Moisturizing the nose with products recommended by the veterinarian can prevent the development of typical diseases in brachycephalic and toy breeds, also preventing the mites of scabies (Demodex) from attacking the naked part, causing deep cracks and itching.
Treating a dry nose in dogs with specific products makes it possible to counteract the effects of severe dehydration, which, if not treated adequately and in time, can become fatal. Finally, but no less important, taking care of your pet's nose helps keep the sense of smell and its function active, as well as regulating body temperature, since the animal does not have true sweat glands.
Balm for dog nose with moringa, what are its benefits?
Among the many natural products for nose care, the Moringa nasal balm for dogs proves to be a valuable resource. Effective and without side effects, it acts gently and brings benefits to your furry friend. With its moisturizing, antioxidant and nourishing properties, it is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory substances, calcium and proteins. The balm owes its effectiveness to its composition, a blend of high-quality plant ingredients, including:
Moringa Oleifera Oil. Extracted from the seeds of the extraordinary plant, originally from India but now widespread in many parts of the world, it is known for its numerous health benefits. Specifically, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects that block the growth and proliferation of various pathogens. Enriched with essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants, it regenerates the skin and promotes the healing of injuries. Regularly applied to your dog's cracked and dry nose, Moringa oil soothes irritations and protects the sensitive skin from external influences.
Sunflower oil. Known for its nourishing and moisturizing properties, it is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids that, in synergy with other natural ingredients, help repair damaged skin and maintain skin elasticity, providing adequate and deep hydration and creating a protective barrier against environmental aggressors and pathogens.
Olive oil. A natural remedy known for centuries due to its ability to soften and soothe dry and damaged skin, it reduces inflammation and promotes the healing of skin lesions thanks to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. As the main ingredient in many nose balms for dogs, it works by providing intense moisture and keeping the skin soft and flexible.
Shea butter. A rich and nourishing ingredient extracted from the seeds of the fruit of the same name, it has a creamy consistency and moisturizing properties. It forms a protective layer on the skin, helping to prevent moisture loss and repair skin damage. In nose balms, it acts as an intensive treatment for the dog's dry and cracked nose, providing long-lasting moisture and protection from external aggressors.
Beeswax. A natural ingredient with moisturizing and protective properties, it forms a barrier on the skin's surface and protects the dog's nose from moisture and harmful environmental influences. It also helps retain moisture and keeps your furry friend's nose soft and protected.
That's why RedMoringa launches a line of natural cosmetics and food supplements based on Moringa Oleifera, ideal for the well-being of your dog's body, paws and nose.
conclusion
In summary, a dry nose in dogs should not be a major concern, as it could be directly due to some congenital malformations, as is the case with brachycephalic breeds (although they are the result of careful breeding), intense outdoor activities, advancing age, sleeping or even staying in environments that are too warm and dry. In these cases, solutions are easily available: it is enough to provide the pet with plenty of fresh, clean water and regularly apply a special dog balm, preferably with moringa, which offers various properties and benefits for the dog's muzzle.
As it is a 100% natural product, it can also be used together with healing treatments, since it does not interact with the active ingredients of medications and does not cause side effects. In case of excessive tearing associated with other unusual symptoms such as secretion or clotted blood, consult your trusted veterinarian.
After a thorough diagnosis, he will be able to recommend the most appropriate solution to treat your dog's dry nose and the causes associated with it.