Treating Your Dog’s Runny Nose

What Causes Runny Nose in Dogs?

A runny nose in dogs can be caused by anything from allergies to a viral infection. It’s important to determine the underlying cause of the runny nose before attempting to treat it. Some of the most common causes of a dog’s runny nose include allergies, foreign object inhalation, upper respiratory infection, and nasal mites.

In addition to a runny nose, dogs may show other signs of the underlying cause such as sneezing, coughing, and discharge from the eyes. If the runny nose is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the veterinarian for further testing and diagnosis.

Once the underlying cause has been determined, your veterinarian can provide the best treatment plan for your dog. Depending on the cause, runny nose treatment in dogs may involve antibiotics, anti-allergy medications, or other treatments.

Home Remedies for Dog Runny Nose

If your dog has a runny nose but no other signs of illness, you may be able to treat it at home with a few simple remedies. The first step is to keep your dog in a warm, dry environment and make sure they are hydrated.

You can also try using a saline solution to flush out your dog’s nasal passages. Simply mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water and use a nasal bulb syringe to gently flush out your dog’s nasal passages. This can help to clear out any irritants or allergens that may be causing the runny nose.

If your dog is suffering from an allergy, you can also try using a natural antihistamine such as nettle or quercetin. These can be found in health food stores and can be given to your dog in the form of a supplement or powder.

When to See the Vet

Even with home remedies, some cases of runny nose in dogs will require professional medical attention. If your dog’s runny nose persists despite home treatments, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for further evaluation.

Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic testing such as blood work or X-rays to determine the cause of the runny nose. Depending on the underlying cause, your vet may prescribe antibiotics, anti-allergy medications, or other treatments.

If your dog’s runny nose is accompanied by other signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Runny nose in dogs can be caused by anything from allergies to a viral infection, and it’s important to determine the underlying cause before attempting to treat it. While some cases of runny nose can be treated at home, others may require professional medical attention. If your dog’s runny nose persists despite home remedies, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment.