Dealing with Your Puppy’s Runny Nose

The phrase “sicker than a dog” doesn’t reign true if you’ve ever experienced your dog having sniffles. It’s not surprising that our pups can sometimes veer on the dramatic side, but a runny nose is no joke when you can’t reach for a tissue yourself. So, if your furball is sick with congestion, here are some common causes and how to help treat them!

Allergies

Just like humans, canines can face the wrath of pesky allergies too. Every dog is different, but their runny nose and sneezes may be a result of contact allergies like pollen, grasses, or weeds. Mold, dust, and mildew also can be common allergen irritants. Symptoms may also include runny eyes and itchy skin.

Solution:

• Removing the allergen from your home/environment (i.e. not walking in areas or times with a high pollen count) ASAP
• Take an allergen blood test with your vet
• Consult a vet about allergy medications (will vary depending on allergies)

Blockage

Dogs are curious and they learn the world by smell, which is both a blessing and a curse. Sometimes a runny nose can be caused by a blockage in their nostril, like a grass clipping or foreign object. Symptoms of nose blocking can be pawing or scratching at the nose or area, sneezing, a runny nose, or a nose bleed.

Solution:

• Look inside your pooch’s nostril(s) for a removable blockage (may need to use a mirror)
• Remove any debris that is accessible (either by hand or with gentle use of tweezers, but leave it to a vet to unclog if you can’t easily remove it)
• Visit a vet to have their nose checked out to avoid unnecessary poking and prodding from you if you can’t easily find the source of irritation

Canine Distemper

This virus can be extremely serious as it attacks the respiratory system. It’s most often found in puppies or young dogs and can be prevented with a series of vaccinations. Symptoms can involve fever, runny nose or eyes, sneezing, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Solution:

• Vaccination series
• Extensive treatment from a vet

Doggie Influenza

The canine flu is very contagious, especially if your pup is around and socializing a lot with other dogs. It can be spread at a number of different places like the dog park, doggie daycare, grooming facilities, etc. by direct contact with infected animals and/or objects, like a water bowl. Symptoms include fever, coughing, sneezing, lack of appetite, etc.

Solution:

• Keeping a close eye on what dogs your pup interacts with (i.e. vaccinated)
• Monitoring for symptoms after a play date/socialization
• Medication prescribed by a vet

Chronic Nostiral Problems

Dogs that are Brachycephalic, like Pugs or Bulldogs, often have chronic runny noses due to how their airways are constructed. They can also experience trouble breathing, heavy breathing, and snoring.

Solution:

• Surgery when an adult
• Suggested solutions from a veterinarian

A dog can have a runny nose for any number of reasons, but identifying the cause quickly is the best way to get treatment. Dealing with a runny nose can be a bummer, but with the right resources, your furry friend should be better in no time!