Why Are Dogs Noses Wet? Waggel Answers Your Questions

Dogs are undoubtedly a pet owner’s best friend. However, there are some things about them that might seem beyond our common understanding.

One question that dog owners often wonder about is how dogs have wet noses. While this is a subject of scientific interest, it is also the responsibility of dog owners to know what affects their dogs and how.

This article will help you understand the reason behind wet noses in dogs. It will also educate you on what a dry nose means and some significant reasons behind it.

Looking for more dog health-related information? Check out our worms in dogs guide, our ticks on dogs guide, or even our pet insurance FAQ to see exactly how our insurance can cover you for all kinds of issues such as cancer, dental, accidents, illnesses and more.

Dogs have receptor sites in their nose that are just about double the number in human noses. This makes the canine part of their brain extremely sensitive to smells.

An additional olfactory tool in their nasal cavity called the Jacobsen’s organ is the main reason they have an increased ability to smell. Besides being a secondary olfactory system, this organ is also a stimulator of great chemical communication in dogs.

Secretions from sensitive organs inside dogs’ noses and mouths are the primary reasons behind their wet noses.

A thin watery fluid oozes out of the nasal pores and cavity, which remain stuck on the surface and keep their noses moist most of the time. Several factors contribute to keeping a dog’s nose wet and cool. Let’s look at some of them.

1. Gland secretions

There are several sensitive glands inside dog noses. The inner linings of these special glands produce mucus and other fluid secretions that keep the nasal cavity moisturised.

These fluids help keep the passages cool and allow dogs to breathe better through their nostrils. A thin layer from this mucus usually remains stuck in the nostrils, enhancing dogs’ ability to smell and absorb scent chemicals.

2. Sweating

Like humans, dogs also sweat when they cool themselves down through panting.

As a part of this cooling mechanism, the surface of the nose gets moist.

This usually happens during hot weather. The moisture in the nose helps to humidify the nasal cavity, consequently keeping the respiratory tracts moist.

3. Licking noses

Something that dogs do a lot is licking. If their nose gets dry, they will automatically lick it to keep it moist.

With their long tongues, they easily reach the tip of their noses and keep them covered in saliva throughout the day.

A reason behind this is that dogs like to keep their noses clean. Licking is a reflexive action that dogs do when they get dirty or have an itch. It usually requires a lot of licking until they feel satisfied.

Another important reason dogs lick is that it is another cooling mechanism like sweating. By keeping their nose moist, they keep their body cool and ease out breathing during hot days.

Licking also significantly enhances their ability to smell as it stimulates their sensory receptors in the nose. The Jacobsen’s organ, once licked, works better in sensing smells from great distances.

4. Smells make noses wet

Wet noses in dogs are also a reflexive action to sensing smells. When dog noses are at work, that is, when they sniff and navigate different places out of curiosity, their noses usually turn wet.

On their way to investigate something new, they usually pick up moisture from their surroundings. Also, once the receptors are active, they start secreting fluids. All of these, added with constant dog-licking, make their nose completely wet and wet noses in dogs are considered a sign of good health.

If your dog does not show signs of a cool, moist nose, it is probably facing some internal problems. However, you should also look for overly wet noses, as they are not a healthy sign.

Extra moist nose tips can be indications of a runny nose. In addition, an overabundance of mucus secretions, excess nasal discharge, discoloured mucus release, or discharge tinged with blood can show vital signs of health problems.

In case of these problems, you must get your dog a checkup from your vet.

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Dry noses in dogs can indicate health problems. While some say they are not necessarily abnormal, dry noses for dogs are mostly considered signs of illnesses.

This is because healthy dogs usually have warm, fuzzy noses, while some develop dry noses due to exposure to harsh environments.

There are several other reasons why dogs may get dry noses. The most natural reason for developing a dry nose is ageing.

As dogs get old, their noses do not stay moist as much. Dehydration due to strenuous exercise is also a significant reason behind dry noses.

Besides, if your dog takes a nap and forgets to lick his nose in his dreams, it is natural to lose all the moisture from the nose surface.

However, there are a few instances when dryness on your dog’s nose does indicate signs of illness. Let's look at some common health problems that can cause dry noses in dogs.

1. Thickening of nose skin

The thickening of the skin, also called hyperkeratosis, is a condition where the outer layer of the skin comprising keratin becomes thicker.

This eventually closes the outer pores and makes the skin dry. This is a common condition faced by dogs due to age or as symptoms of infections and allergies.

2. Allergies

Like humans, dogs are also prone to allergies. It can happen due to specific food items, elements of nature, or simply overexposure to the sun.

Allergies may cause redness, sores, and flaky skin. Sensitive body parts like the nose, therefore, become dry during allergies.

3. Fever with a hot nose

Fevers can raise body temperatures, primarily affecting sensitive areas like the nose. The moisture on the nose tips evaporates due to the body heat and makes it dry. Fevers also expose dogs to nose blockages and nostril problems.

4. Infected mucus

A very common sight seen during infections is coloured mucus. Bacterial infections or other internal illnesses can heavily impact your dog’s nasal discharge.

The secretions from the nose are vital in keeping it moist and cool. During such infections, there can even be tinges of blood traced with the mucus secretions.

As a pet owner, you must know the reasons behind your dog’s wet and dry noses. While some of them can be normal, some may occur from some internal sickness requiring special care and treatment.

After all, what is needed is the right balance between wetness and dryness in your dog’s nose to ensure it's in perfect health.