Understanding Your Dog’s Nose: Wet, Dry, and What It Means for Their Health

A dog’s nose is an extraordinary organ, helping them explore the world in ways we can’t imagine. With up to 300 million scent receptors (compared to around 6 million in humans), their sense of smell is a thousand times more powerful than ours. But beyond scent detection, a dog’s nose can also provide clues about their overall health.

Many dog owners wonder:

• Should a dog’s nose always be wet?
• Does a dry nose mean my dog is sick?
• What changes should I watch for?

In this post, we’ll answer these questions and provide practical, trustworthy guidance to help you better understand what’s normal and when to seek veterinary advice.

Should a Dog’s Nose Always Be Wet?

It’s a common belief that a healthy dog’s nose should always be cold and moist — but that’s not always true.

Why Are Dogs’ Noses Often Wet?

1. Nasal Mucus Production – A thin layer of mucus helps dogs capture and process scents more effectively.
2. Frequent Licking – Dogs instinctively lick their noses to keep them clean and moist.
3. Environmental Factors – Temperature, humidity, and exposure to water or damp surfaces can all affect moisture levels.

So, while a wet nose is often normal, a dry nose doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.

Why Do Some Dogs Have a Dry Nose?

A dry nose doesn’t always signal illness. Here are some common causes:

1. Sleeping

Dogs don’t lick their noses while they sleep, so they may wake up with a dry nose. Moisture usually returns shortly after waking.

2. Weather and Environment

• Hot or dry conditions can cause moisture to evaporate.
• Cold or windy weather can also dry out a nose, especially in winter.
• Indoor heating and air conditioning may contribute to general skin dryness.

3. Breed Differences

Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and Boxers may naturally have drier noses due to their facial structure. Older dogs may also produce less moisture as they age.

4. Dehydration

If a dog isn’t drinking enough water, dryness may affect not just their nose, but also their gums and skin.

5. Allergies

Environmental, food or contact allergies can cause dryness or irritation — especially when paired with sneezing, rubbing, or watery eyes.

🟡 If your dog’s dry nose is accompanied by lethargy, discomfort, or other changes — it’s time to check in with your vet.

When Should You Be Concerned?

A dry nose alone isn’t usually alarming — but certain signs should not be ignored.

1. Cracked, Flaky, or Scabby Nose

Possible causes:

• Dehydration
• Sunburn (especially in dogs with pink or lightly pigmented noses)
• Allergies
• Autoimmune conditions (e.g., pemphigus, lupus)
• Nasal hyperkeratosis (excessive keratin build-up)

What to do:

✔ Keep fresh water available at all times

✔ Use a dog-safe nose balm (avoid petroleum-based products)

✔ If symptoms persist, speak to your vet

1. Changes in Colour or Texture

Possible causes:

• Dudley Nose – pigment loss due to age or weather
• Discoid Lupus – an immune disorder affecting nose pigmentation
• Nasal Hyperkeratosis – causes rough, thickened crust

What to do:

✔ Gradual, seasonal changes can be normal

✔ Sudden or painful changes should be checked by a vet

2. Runny or Excessively Wet Nose

Clear, occasional discharge is generally normal. But thick or coloured discharge can point to something more serious.

Possible causes:

• Respiratory infections
• Allergies
• Nasal tumours or polyps

Watch for:

• Yellow, green or bloody mucus
• Sneezing, coughing or trouble breathing
• Lethargy or appetite changes

What to do:

✔ Contact your vet if discharge is persistent or abnormal

3. Warm Nose & Fever Signs

A warm nose alone doesn’t mean your dog has a fever.

More reliable signs include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Warm ears or belly

Normal dog temperature: 37.5–39.2°C

🚨 Over 39.5°C = see your vet

Australian Considerations: Sunburn & Hydration Risks

Sun exposure is a serious risk in Australia, particularly for dogs with light noses or sparse fur.

Tips to protect your dog:

✔ Apply pet-safe sunscreen to light areas

✔ Avoid walking during peak UV hours (10am–4pm)

✔ Provide shade and fresh drinking water at all times

✔ Consider a dog-safe balm with UV protection

FAQs About Dog Nose Health

Why is my dog’s nose dry but they seem healthy?

Totally normal in many cases — especially after sleep, or due to dry air or age.

Do dogs’ noses get drier with age?

Yes — just like skin, noses can produce less moisture as dogs age.

What does it mean if my dog’s nose is always wet?

Usually nothing to worry about — unless there’s excess mucus, sneezing or breathing issues.

Is it bad if my dog’s nose is warm?

Not necessarily. Focus on overall health, energy levels and appetite, not nose temperature alone.

Final Thoughts

A dog’s nose changes throughout the day — and while a moist nose is common, a dry one doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. The key is watching for other signs like discomfort, cracking, discharge, or behavioural changes. When in doubt, check with your vet.

At Jordan Dog Training, we’re committed to helping you raise a happy, well-adjusted dog using positive, practical and proven methods. For more helpful info, visit our blog or follow us on Facebook!

Disclaimer:

This article is intended as a general information post only and is not intended as veterinary advice. It does not constitute or replace professional veterinary advice. Jordan Dog Training is not a veterinary practice, and we do not provide veterinary services or diagnoses. For any concerns about your dog’s health or well-being, speaking with your pet’s veterinarian is the best recommendation and should always be the priority.