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Care for Dogs with Nasal Discharge

Hi there! We are sorry you are here but happy to help. A snotty nose can be a concerning finding. There are several things you can do at home, but some dogs will need additional treatment. Here’s how you can help.

What’s going on with your dog?

What is the character of the discharge from your dog’s nose?

A small or even moderate amount of clear nasal discharge from dogs can be perfectly normal. However, it should never be bloody, red, green, yellow, ropey or thick, nor should it ever have an odor.

How are they doing otherwise?

Sneezing with productive snot, nasal congestion, lack of appetite and difficulty breathing can be signs that the condition is more severe.

What can you do at home for a runny nose?

Crusting of the nose can be painful and lead to a decreased sense of smell and appetite. You can gently cleanse the nose with a moist, soft cloth 2-3 times a day or as needed to remove crusting and discharge.

It can help humidify the air to break up discharge and provide comfort. You can use a humidifier near where your dog normally sleeps. You can also run a hot shower and place your dog in the closed bathroom for 10-15 minutes twice a day. We recommend sitting with them to ensure they don’t get themselves in trouble in the bathroom!

Offer food with a really strong smell. They may not be able to smell as well right now, and they need to eat to keep fighting the infection. The smellier the food, the more likely they will think it’s tasty.

Does your dog need Urgent Care for nasal discharge?

If your dog has nasal discharge, it’s important to know that breathing is a vital function, and any problem with the respiratory system can become serious quickly. While some discharge may be mild and temporary, persistent or worsening symptoms can signal a more significant issue. Common causes include infections—bacterial, viral, or fungal—that may produce thick, discolored mucus. Kennel cough (Bordetella) is one example that often resolves on its own, though it can be hard to distinguish from more serious conditions. Allergies to pollen, dust, mold, or other environmental triggers can cause nasal discharge and sneezing, while foreign objects such as grass seeds may become lodged in the nasal passages and lead to ongoing symptoms. Dental disease, particularly infections or abscesses in the upper jaw, can also cause nasal discharge, as can nasal tumors or polyps, which may produce discharge with blood. Irritants like smoke, strong scents, or airborne pollutants can cause temporary nasal irritation. Because it’s not always easy to tell whether nasal discharge is minor or serious, it’s best to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian.

What can you expect from your visit?

Your Scout veterinarian may recommend:

- Triage: If the Scout team has any concerns that your dog is in distress, they will perform a quick (STAT) assessment to ensure they are safe and stable. Some infections, like kennel cough, can be contagious, so your dog may be escorted to a special room for evaluation.

- X-rays: Sometimes nasal discharge in puppies and older dogs is related to lower airway disease, heart problems or masses, which can be assessed through imaging.

- Bloodwork: If the nasal discharge is bloody or red, bloodwork can help determine if there’s an underlying clotting disorder or infection.

- PCR Testing: A swab test may be performed to check for common respiratory infections.

- Treatments: Depending on the cause, your Scout veterinarian may prescribe oral medications to relieve symptoms or treat the underlying issue.

- Follow-up appointments: If your dog improves with treatment, follow-ups may not be necessary. However, if symptoms persist, further evaluation may be needed.

- Referral: If the issue is chronic or unresponsive to initial treatment, your Scout veterinarian will help connect you with a specialist in Chicago for advanced diagnostics and care.

Why choose Scout Veterinary Urgent Care?

Your pet’s health is our top priority, and we understand how stressful it can be when something doesn’t seem right. That’s why Scout Veterinary Urgent Care is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care whenever you need it. Our experienced veterinarians deliver timely and thorough evaluations, ensuring your pet receives the best possible treatment without unnecessary delays.

We are open seven days a week, so you never have to wait long for care. Our team has the expertise to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions while maintaining clear and transparent pricing. We believe in honest communication about treatment options and costs, giving you the confidence to make informed decisions about your pet’s health.

With convenient locations in Lincoln Park, West Loop and our newest clinic in Old Orchard, expert veterinary care is always within reach. If your dog is experiencing nasal discharge and you’re unsure whether urgent care is necessary, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help—book an appointment today or call one of our clinics for guidance.

Book an appointment today or call one of our clinics. We’re here to help!