Is Your Dog’s Dry Nose Hiding a Secret Health Warning You Can’t Afford to Miss?

According to folklore, a dry nose means a dog is sick. While this may be true in some cases, a dry nose doesn’t always require an urgent trip to the veterinarian (although if your dog has other symptoms, then yes, it’s time for a vet visit). There are other reasons for a dog’s dry nose that are less worrisome, like a nap, sunburn and cold weather. It’s also perfectly normal for some breeds of dog to have a dry nose.
Are Dogs’ Noses Supposed to Be Wet?
In general, dogs are supposed to have a wet nose, as it helps them detect scents better and to keep cool. The only place dogs have sweat glands is in their paws (and possibly their noses). So, instead of sweating, dogs have to use other ways of cooling down. Panting is the main way dogs regulate their body temperature. Panting allows air to circulate quickly through their respiratory system and for water to evaporate from your dog’s tongue, mouth and upper airways, which cools their body down. The mucus inside a dog’s nostrils may also help cool them a little.
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