Why Are Dogs' Noses Cold?
Most dog breeds have cold wet noses. Determining your dog's health based on the temperature and moisture level of its nose is not the best guide. Understanding why a dog has a cold, moist nose will help ensure a healthy pet. A dry nose does not mean a dog is sick but should be watched for signs of illness.
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Legend
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The Pets website cites Dr. Stanley Coren, author of What Do Dogs Know, who retells a fable of two dogs on Noah's ark. In that story, one of Noah's dogs stopped a leak by sticking his nose in a hole, while the other dog went to alert Noah of the problem. Discovering the hole, Noah repaired it allowing a major disaster to be averted. According to the tale, "The dog's cold wet nose is his badge of honor, conferred upon them by God in memory of that heroic act."
Cause
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Physiology is the reason a dog has a cool, moist nose. The website of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System notes, "A dog's nose is normally cool and moist. The moisture secreted by mucous glands in the nasal cavity captures and dissolves molecules in the air and brings them into contact with the specialized olfactory epithelium inside the nose."
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Benefits
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A cold moist nose has many benefits for dogs. It helps in the regulation of the dog's body temperature. The moisture helps protect the nose against chapping and cracking due to heat or dryness. A dog's nose is quick to show signs of illness in the dog. Discoid Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can present as rashes and crusty lesions on a dog's nose.
Misconceptions
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Many people assume a cold, wet nose is an indication that a dog is in good health. This is often true, but may be misleading. A dog's health cannot be determined solely by the temperature or moisture of its nose.
Warning
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According to PetPlace, normal noses are considered moist, but a wet, runny nose is a sign of a problem and needs to be examined by a veterinarian. The site also suggests, if the dog has swelling, discharge or difficulty breathing then he should be checked immediately. Dogs should have sunscreen applied to sensitive areas of skin such as ears, nose, and stomach when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
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References
Resources
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