Dog’s Nose Suddenly Feels Cold and Wet – Why & What to Do Next

Dogs can’t really communicate how they are feeling apart from the occasional barking, yelping, and whimpering. Although our dogs are vocalizing, we still won’t be able to understand what they really mean. Does whimpering mean that they have a stomachache? Does barking mean that they feel feverish?

You can’t really tell if your dog is feeling fine or under the weather. One good indicator that you can take a look at, however, is her nose. If your dog’s nose feels cold and wet, it can tell you a lot, especially when it comes to her health.

Are Dogs’ Noses Supposed to Be Cold and Wet?

Is it normal for your dog’s nose to be cold and wet? Yes, it is. Dogs are constantly licking their nose to keep it clean. Licking may be where the coldness and wetness come from. Also, a wet nose helps absorb tiny water droplets that carry scent, helping your pet detect faint scents.

Another fact that you should understand is that dogs don’t sweat the same way we humans do. Instead of sending heat to the outer layers of the skin to produce sweat to be evaporated, dogs pant. As they do, moisture is evaporated from their tongues and nasal passages, making them feel relief from the heat as the air passes over the moist tissue.

Does a Dry Nose Mean That My Dog is Sick?

There are a lot of reasons why your dog’s nose is dry. It’s not always an indicator of sickness. For example, if she’s sleeping and her nose is dry, it is because she’s not licking it like she usually does.

If it’s extremely cold (like during the winter season), your dog’s nose might be dry because there isn’t enough moisture in the air. It’s similar to when you get chapped lips when it is freezing.

Older dogs will naturally have dry noses because of their age. Some breeds with short snouts are also susceptible to having dry noses because they have difficulty licking that part of their face.

What If Your Dog’s Nose Suddenly Becomes Dry?

If none of the reasons above apply to your pet, then you can assume that she is sick. Normally, a dog’s nose will change throughout the day. If her nose is dry and she seems fine, then there’s nothing to worry about. As long as she is active, eating and drinking plenty of water, and sleeping well, her dry nose will likely be fixed in the next minute.

Again, it will depend on the circumstances. Sunburn or being out in the heat for too long can also cause a dry nose. Allergies and dehydration too. The key here is to watch out for danger signs.

If your dog’s nose feels dry and hot, she’s weak, and won’t eat, you have to go to your vet immediately. Your dog might have a fever if she’s warm to touch. If her condition is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, nose bleeding, imbalance (or inability to walk), and so on, don’t wait for a few days until you see your dog’s doctor.

It’s hard to say what your dog may be experiencing when you are already at the clinic. Your vet will be the best person to determine what your dog’s sickness is. He or she will base it on all of the symptoms your pet is experiencing, not just her dry nose.

In conclusion, your dog’s nose can feel cold and wet which is ideal. It means that your dog is okay, as long as she is showing you the behaviors she normally does. You have to be observant of any kind of symptom when her nose is dry so you know when to bring her to the vet.