Dry dog nose

JusticeforPluto

So, my dogs nose is really dry. It's chapping and cracking, sometimes to the point of bleeding. Our vet gave her some fish oil pills but they did not seem to help much. She's due for a check, so I'm going to bring it up again as it is now months later and the issue is still present.

Any ideas what's causing it? She's inside a lot due to the weather, she doesn't drink or eat out of plastic. No change it diet or behavior. She's about 7 or 8.

Also, can I put something on it for her? I can't imagine that feels good.

Wassermelone

Our last dog had a really dry nose and we never bought anything specific for it - my wife just used some of her The Body Shop stuff on it which seemed to really help dramatically.

But there are moisturizers and protection creams and whatnot for dogs and dog noses specifically as well if you want to use something directly dog targeted. A quick google finds a bunch of different products that mention stuff like chapping, cracking, and bleeding.

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Skull2185

Do any of these apply?

This article also mentions dabbing some petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or olive oil on your dog's nose to help keep it moist.

amateurhour

Our boxer has that issue.

Bag Balm is the light. It's pretty great stuff.

Donnicton

You didn't mention your dog's breed, but certain breeds(especially Boxers) are susceptible to dry nose as a breed issue, not necessarily because anything is otherwise wrong with them. Fish oil won't help, you'll need something more active. Bag Balm as mentioned is highly rated and pretty inexpensive, I'd also recommend giving that a try.

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Paladin

Petrolatum jelly (vaseline) is first line for dermatologists when there's skin breakage because the most important thing is restoring the barrier to the dry environment (also for infection control). Moisturizing cracked skin is not recommended because damp open wounds only exacerbate bacteria growth.

However, petrolatum is mildly toxic and can cause mild diarrhea. If you want to use it, limit the amount you put on and the number of applications since your dog will eat most of it. Before reapplication, clean the nose with a damp towel to reduce exposure to pathogens.

If you want alternatives, food oils can be used as long as they're dog safe. Try using a neutral oil that isn't pungent to spare your dog the inconvenience.

Make sure your dog is well hydrated and look for signs of infection - any spread of the skin condition anywhere else, any change in energy level, or diarrhea. The dog also may be getting into irritants or may be having a reaction to a change of environment or food.

Smurph

Hydration is a big one. One of our dogs has issues with it where he either forgets or just loses interest in the main water bowl. I think it might be due to its location in the house, he doesn't end up around it if he isn't going outside a lot due to weather. We put a smaller bowl in his crate with him and he just goes to town on it, and he's fine in a day or two.