Our dogs depend heavily on their noses, and it’s no surprise: with a sense of smell that’s far superior to ours, this small organ plays a huge role in how they “see” the world!
Smell is arguably the most important sense for dogs who are trying to gather information about the world around them. As their guardians, it’s our job to make sure that their noses are always in tip-top condition!
While a cool, wet nose is usually considered the healthy “norm” for a dog, a dry, flaky one is not only be uncomfortable, it can seriously hinder one of your pup’s keenest senses. In fact, in order for their noses to work properly, they should be a little bit damp.
“As your dog catches the first hints of fresh air, her nose’s moist, spongy outside helps capture any scents the breeze carries,” explains the TED-ED Talk below.
While it’s normal for dogs’ noses to get a bit drier while they’re sleeping, they’re usually back to their shiny, wet selves within a few minutes of waking up. But when pet parents notice that their pooch’s sniffers are chronically dry, or become flaky, cracked, or irritated, it’s usually a sign that their snouts need some extra TLC.
As with any medical issues or physical changes, a vet should always be consulted. Once serious issues are ruled out, caring dog owners can take a few simple steps to help their loyal companions sniff out their surroundings to the best of their abilities. (After all, wouldn’t you want someone to do the same for you?)
The first step is to determine the cause of your pup’s dried-out muzzle. Dehydration, sunburns, and harsh winter weather can all cause dryness, much like how these conditions can affect us humans. Certain allergies may cause noses to get flaky, and can be triggered by plastic toys or bowls, food, or cleaning products, just to name a few. Plus, some breeds are more prone to all kinds of nasal issues, including: Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, American Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Collies, Poodles, Japanese Chin, Pekingese, and Pomeranians.
A dog’s dry nose is more than a patch of chapped skin; it inhibits their strongest sense. It would be like someone putting a blindfold on your eyes, and then asking you to continue navigating your way through life. It’s a distressing thought, isn’t it?
Luckily, you can restore your dog’s nose to its natural glory with a few easy steps. First, determine whether an allergen or sensitivity is triggering the symptoms, then find better alternatives. Second, make sure your pooch is lapping up plenty of water every day. Third, apply a snout balm to your pup’s wiggly nose to soothe and moisturize the irritation away!
Project Paws Nature’s Butter Snout Balm is an all-natural snout soother that can be used on sensitive sniffers when they need a moisturizing boost! It’s handcrafted with only the good stuff, including shea butter, beeswax, and nourishing oils to help heal irritated noses and bring back that healthy, damp sheen. What’s more, each tin purchased provides 5 meals to hungry shelter dogs waiting for their forever homes!
Your dog will be more calm and comfortable when her nose is up to snuff. And you know what they say: cold nose, warm heart!
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