Dog Runny Nose
A runny nose in dogs can be caused by something mild, like temporary irritation, or something that needs veterinary care, like infection, a foreign object, or dental disease. Here’s how to tell when to monitor at home, when to call your vet, and what steps can help in the meantime.
When to call a vet for a dog runny nose
Go to the ER now
- ● Your dog is having trouble breathing, breathing with an open mouth, or seems distressed while trying to breathe.
- ● There is heavy bleeding from the nose, repeated nosebleeds, or the discharge is suddenly bloody and your dog seems weak or unwell.
- ● The runny nose happens along with collapse, severe lethargy, blue or pale gums, or signs of heatstroke.
- ● Your dog may have inhaled or gotten a foreign object stuck in the nose and is frantically sneezing, pawing at the face, or cannot settle.
- ● There is facial swelling, severe pain around the nose or eyes, or a sudden change in the shape of the face.
See a vet within 24 hours
- ● The discharge is yellow, green, thick, foul-smelling, or coming from only one nostril.
- ● Your dog also has coughing, frequent sneezing, eye discharge, decreased appetite, fever, or low energy.
- ● The runny nose has lasted more than 24 to 48 hours or keeps coming back.
- ● Your dog is pawing at the nose, rubbing the face, snoring more than usual, or seems uncomfortable when you touch the head.
- ● Your dog recently boarded, went to daycare, visited a groomer, or had contact with other dogs and now has respiratory signs.
Watch at home, call if it worsens
- ● The discharge is small in amount, clear, and your dog otherwise seems completely normal.
- ● It happened briefly after exercise, excitement, or minor exposure to dust or other irritants and then improved quickly.
- ● Your dog is eating, drinking, breathing normally, and acting like themselves.
- ● There is no blood, no bad odor, and no facial swelling or pain.
- ● The runny nose does not continue or worsen over the same day.
Common Causes of Dog Runny Nose
Rhinitis or sinus irritation
Inflammation inside the nose or sinuses can cause sneezing and discharge. It may be short-term or chronic, and the discharge can start clear and later become thicker.
Respiratory infections
Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can all lead to nasal discharge. Dogs may also cough, sneeze, have eye discharge, feel tired, or eat less.
Foreign material in the nose
Grass awns, plant material, dust, or other debris can get lodged in a nostril. This often causes sudden sneezing, pawing at the face, and discharge from one side.
Dental disease
An infected upper tooth root can sometimes affect the nasal passages. Dogs may have bad breath, pain when chewing, or discharge from one nostril.
Irritants and allergies
Smoke, sprays, dust, and other airborne irritants can trigger sneezing and a drippy nose. Allergies may play a role in some dogs, especially with other signs of irritation.
Growths, fungal disease, or tumors
Chronic discharge, especially if it becomes one-sided, bloody, painful, or associated with facial swelling, can point to a more serious nasal problem that needs veterinary testing.
What to Do at Home
If your dog has a mild, clear runny nose but is otherwise acting normally, it may be reasonable to monitor closely for a short time. Home care should focus on comfort, limiting irritation, and watching for changes. If the discharge becomes colored, bloody, one-sided, persistent, or your dog develops other symptoms, call your vet.
- Gently wipe away discharge with a soft, damp cloth to keep the nose clean and prevent crusting.
- Keep your dog away from smoke, strong cleaners, sprays, dusty areas, and other airborne irritants.
- Encourage rest and make sure fresh water is always available.
- If your dog may have a contagious respiratory illness, avoid close contact with other dogs until your veterinarian advises otherwise.
- Do not give over-the-counter cold medicines, decongestants, or human medications unless your veterinarian specifically tells you to.
- Do not try to remove anything from inside your dog’s nose at home. If you suspect a foreign object, call your vet.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dog have a runny nose?
Is a runny nose in dogs ever normal?
What does it mean if my dog's runny nose is only on one side?
When should I worry about my dog's runny nose?
Can kennel cough or dog flu cause a runny nose?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.