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Nasal discharge

Nasal discharge is a common symptom in dogs that can have various causes. In this blog post, you'll learn what nasal discharge in dogs means, how to recognize and treat it, and when you should see a vet.

What is nasal discharge?

Nasal discharge is the secretion of fluid from the nose. It can be clear, white, yellow, green or bloody. The consistency can be thin, thick or slimy. Nasal discharge can occur on one or both sides.

What are the causes of nasal discharge?

Nasal discharge can have various causes, ranging from harmless to serious. The most common include

  • Allergies: Dogs can be allergic to pollen, dust, mold or other substances that cause inflammation of the nasal mucosa. This leads to a clear, thin nasal discharge.
  • Infections: Bacteria, viruses or fungi can trigger an infection of the nose or sinuses. This leads to a purulent, yellow or green nasal discharge. Common infections are distemper, kennel cough or aspergillosis.
  • Foreign body: A blade of grass, a piece of wood or another object can get into the nose and get stuck there. This causes irritation, pain and bleeding. The dog will try to get rid of the foreign body by sneezing or shaking its head.
  • Tumors: A benign or malignant tumor can grow in or near the nose and narrow or block the nasal passages. This leads to a bloody or mucous nasal discharge. Tumors can also destroy bones or deform the face.
  • Dental problems: A tooth root infection or abscess can spread to the sinuses and cause an infection there. This leads to a purulent or bloody nasal discharge on one side.

How do I recognize nasal discharge in my dog?

Nasal discharge is often easy to recognize because it drips from the nose or sticks to the hair. However, you should also look out for other signs that may indicate an underlying condition. These include

  • sneezing
  • coughing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • fever
  • loss of appetite
  • weight loss
  • lethargy
  • Swelling or deformation of the face

How do I treat nasal discharge in my dog?

The treatment of nasal discharge depends on the cause. You should always consult a vet if your dog has nasal discharge to get the correct diagnosis and treatment. Possible treatments are:

  • Antihistamines or steroids: These medications can help relieve the inflammation and itching associated with allergies.
  • Antibiotics or antifungals: These medications can help fight a bacterial or fungal infection.
  • Nasal irrigation: This procedure can help to remove a foreign body from the nose or clear the nasal cavities of mucus.
  • Surgery: This procedure may be necessary to remove a tumor or treat a tooth root infection.

When should I see a vet?

You should always see a vet if your dog has nasal discharge, especially if it has the following characteristics:

  • It is bloody, purulent or green
  • It only occurs on one side
  • It is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath or pain
  • It lasts longer than a week
  • It worsens despite treatment

Nasal discharge can be an indication of a serious condition that requires early treatment. Don't hesitate to contact your vet if you are unsure or have any questions.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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