Cracked Nose In Dogs: Causes And Treatment
On some occasions, the pathologies of pets can begin with physical alterations. The cracked nose in dogs is an example of this, hence the importance of observation and subsequent collaboration between owners and veterinarians.
Either because of its popular diffusion or because of its easy evidence, the nose of dogs is one of the morphological features most analyzed by owners. Normally, a humid state of this is related to good health. However, this rule is not always valid, as your hydration fluctuates daily because it is closely related to the weather.
Harmless causes of a cracked nose
Excess dryness, and the consequent appearance of small indentations in the nose of dogs, can be due to a multitude of factors. Therefore, before worrying, it is interesting to know the most common ones.
Common causes include lower licking frequency. Although ignored by most owners, one of the main reasons why dogs have wet noses is because of their habit of sucking on it. Thus, in those moments in which there has been less opportunity to do so, such as a long nap, this area will be drier.
In this way, when the reasons for a cracked nose are due to non-pathological factors, it is best to let it return to its being naturally. Normally, the dog will tend to lick itself again when it feels dry, so a proper daily wash is usually sufficient.
Local washing of the nose can be annoying if done with the bath hose. Therefore, it is best to use a damp sponge or cloth to moisten the area. Afterwards, soaps or talcum powder should be avoided that can irritate and worsen symptoms.
In some cases, petroleum jelly or special ointments can help to reverse the situation more quickly, but they should always be advised by the professional.
Pathologies that contribute to nasal dryness
In addition to the above causes, there are diseases whose symptoms include a cracked nose. Among the least harmful are allergies to pollen, mold or any chemical or food product. In these cases, the dryness can be accompanied by itching and redness, which will be relieved with antihistamines or steroids in the most severe cases.
The most damaging pathologies linked to cracking are those of the autoimmune type, such as lupus or pemphigus. For its diagnosis, blood and urine tests and a nose biopsy are necessary. In this situation, the veterinarian will prescribe immunosuppressive drugs such as prednisone.
In general, a serious illness can be suspected when there is excessive bleeding, green discharge, lumps, or thickening.
At the same time, and beyond the physical aspects of the animal, it is convenient that the owners pay attention to physiological or behavioral symptoms. The presence of vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of appetite or excessive scratching are some of the most common.
As a first premise before a cracked nose, or any change in the appearance of a pet, a complete observation of the animal should prevail. Therefore, the information provided by the owners to the veterinarian is key to determining the most appropriate tests for their diagnosis.
