A human’s runny nose may not sound much of a big deal, but something could be out of place with a dog’s runny nose; perhaps it’s just a simple allergy, an infection, or a more serious underlying health issue.
So, when should you worry about your dog’s runny nose?
First, knowing the possible causes behind a dog’s runny nose is better. Usually, it is caused by simple nostril problems or distemper. It could also be caused by congenital issues, such as a cleft palate or narrowed nasal passages.
In most cases, a dog’s runny nose is nothing to worry about, especially if the dog’s nasal passages are clear and there are no signs of difficulty breathing.
However, if the discharge is unusual—yellow, green, cloudy, or smelly—you should take your dog to the nearest vet. If left untreated, this could result in your dog having difficulty breathing or, worse, the onset of a more serious health condition.
Can I do a home treatment for my dog?
As mentioned earlier, clear nasal discharge shouldn’t cause worry, as it could go away independently. However, it is still best to consult your trusted veterinarian if it doesn’t go away within a week or two.
Your veterinarian could pinpoint the leading cause of your dog’s runny nose and suggest some medications. If the runny nose is caused by allergens, such as dust, pollen, and molds, your vet might prescribe some antihistamines,
which you could administer to your dog at home; given the medication, with proper rest and diet, your dog’s symptoms may clear up in a short period.
However, if you think your dog’s runny nose is only a problem on one side and not on the other, it’s best to consult your vet and not just rely on the home treatments
you could come up with – especially when your dog constantly sneezes or snorts.
A simple runny nose could escalate into a more severe matter within a week, so you must pay attention to your dog’s health during this critical time. If you sense that the clear discharge turned out to be bloody, crusty, yellow, or green,
it’s better to consult your vet as soon as possible—all the more if you notice other symptoms like loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
Possible diagnosis for a dog’s runny nose
Other than allergic reactions, which can be determined through allergy testing and an elimination diet, a dog’s runny nose could be caused by underlying health issues,
such as tumors or polyps, which can only be detected through advanced diagnostics like X-rays and CT scans. Your veterinarian might recommend surgery if tumors or polyps are the leading cause.
However, your vet could gently use tweezers to address the nasal blockage problem for less severe conditions.