When your dog has a runny nose and eye discharge, it’s easy to jump to conclusions and panic. But while these symptoms can sometimes indicate something serious, they are also fairly common and often treatable. Understanding the possible causes, what symptoms to watch for, and when to visit your veterinarian can make all the difference in helping your pet feel better quickly.
Let’s take a closer look at why your dog might be dealing with nasal discharge and watery eyes, and what you can do about it.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Have a Runny Nose?
A moist nose is often a sign of a healthy dog. Dogs naturally have wet noses due to mucus production and licking, which helps enhance their sense of smell. However, when your dog’s nose starts to drip excessively or comes with unusual nasal discharge, especially if it’s thick, yellow, green, or bloody, it’s time to pay attention.
What Does Eye Discharge in Dogs Mean?
Like the nose, a small amount of eye discharge can be normal in dogs. But if your dog exhibits persistent or heavy eye discharge, along with other signs such as squinting, redness, or crusting around the eyes, it could be a symptom of an underlying condition.
Common Causes of Nasal and Eye Discharge in Dogs
1. Respiratory Infections
One of the most common causes of nasal discharge and eye issues in dogs is an upper respiratory infection. These can be due to viral infections like canine parainfluenza or canine influenza, as well as bacterial infections such as kennel cough.
Symptoms may include:
- Runny nose in dogs (clear or cloudy mucus)
- Watery eyes or thick eye discharge
- Sneezing
- Noisy or labored breathing
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
2. Allergies
Just like people, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen, mold, dust, or even certain foods can irritate your dog’s immune system and lead to watery eyes and a runny nose.
You might also notice:
- Itchy skin
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Red or irritated nasal passages
3. Foreign Objects
Dogs are naturally curious and often sniff their surroundings closely. A foreign object like a grass seed or small twig lodged in the nasal passages can cause sudden nasal discharge, sneezing, and irritation. Foreign bodies in the tear ducts can lead to ongoing watery eye discharge.
4. Dental Problems
Surprisingly, dental issues like an abscessed tooth or gum infection can cause runny noses. The roots of the upper teeth are located near the nasal passages, so infections can spread and cause inflammation in the nose or sinuses.
Signs may include:
- Unilateral nasal discharge (on one side only)
- Bad breath
- Trouble chewing
- Swelling under the eye
5. Nasal Tumors or Chronic Rhinitis
Although less common, nasal tumors or chronic rhinitis (long-term nasal inflammation) can result in persistent nasal discharge. This discharge may be bloody or pus-like and could be accompanied by noisy breathing, decreased energy level, or loss of appetite.
6. Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a serious viral infection that affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Dogs with distemper may show signs like eye discharge, runny nose, coughing, and even seizures. Vaccination is key in preventing this often fatal disease.
Diagnosing the Underlying Cause
When your dog has a runny nose and eye discharge, identifying the underlying cause is essential for proper treatment.
Your Vet May Perform:
- Physical examination: To check for visible signs like swelling, noisy breathing, and nasal blockage.
- Blood tests: To assess immune function or rule out infections.
- X-rays or advanced imaging: To detect tumors, foreign bodies, or dental issues.
- Nasal swabs or discharge analysis: To identify bacterial or fungal infection.
- Additional tests: Especially if symptoms don’t improve with standard treatment.
Treatment Options: What Can Help Your Dog Feel Better
Once a diagnosis is made, your veterinarian will suggest a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s symptoms and the underlying condition.
Possible treatments include:
- Antibiotics: Prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections.
- Anti-inflammatories: Help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Surgery: If nasal tumors, foreign objects, or cleft palate are present.
- Supportive care: Includes hydration, rest, and sometimes supplemental oxygen in severe respiratory infections.
- Pain medication: To ease discomfort from dental problems or chronic rhinitis.
- Allergy management: May involve antihistamines, diet changes, or allergy testing.
At-Home Care for Mild Symptoms
If your dog’s symptoms are mild and your vet rules out serious conditions, supportive home care can help speed recovery.
Try the following:
- Gently clean away eye and nasal discharge with a warm, damp cloth
- Keep your dog’s environment free of dust and allergens
- Use a humidifier to ease breathing
- Encourage hydration
- Avoid exposure to sick dogs, especially in public areas
When to Call the Vet
While occasional sneezing or discharge may not be a concern, there are times when you should call your veterinarian right away.
Red flags to watch for:
- Thick, yellow, green, or bloody discharge
- Eye swelling or squinting
- Trouble breathing or labored breathing
- Loss of appetite or energy
- Persistent sneezing or coughing
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
- Signs of pain such as whining, pawing at the face, or head shaking
Your vet will help determine the best course of action based on your dog’s symptoms and medical history.
Prevention: Keeping Your Dog Healthy
Prevention is always better than cure. While not all causes of discharge in dogs can be avoided, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the risks.
Tips to keep your dog healthy:
- Keep up with vaccinations to prevent viral infections like distemper or parainfluenza
- Maintain good dental hygiene
- Avoid exposure to other sick pets
- Keep your pet away from dusty or moldy environments
- Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian
Final Thoughts
A runny nose and eye discharge in dogs can stem from something as minor as seasonal allergies or as serious as an infection or tumor. Whether it’s nasal discharge from kennel cough or watery eyes from tear duct irritation, paying attention to your dog’s symptoms and seeking veterinary advice early can make all the difference.
As a pet owner, trust your instincts. If something feels off with your dog’s nose or eyes, don’t wait it out; talk to your veterinarian, get a clear diagnosis, and start the right treatment. Your dog depends on you to notice the signs and help them get the care they need.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/my-dog-has-discharge-from-nose
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/dog-eye-discharge
https://www.goodrx.com/pet-health/dog/runny-nose?srsltid=AfmBOorKSZxa9rV2DjPP5BiOP6GcqRNHIGT63El-jz98mxanJNnQ7le2
https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/rhinitis-and-sinusitis-in-dogs
