Is Clear Nasal Discharge in Dogs Normal?

1 Dog Clear Nasal Discharge

I. Clear Nasal Discharge May Mean a Cold

Dogs have weak resistance; if not dried promptly after a bath or staying too long in an air-conditioned room, they catch a chill and catch a cold, showing runny nose, cough, reduced appetite. Early cold shows clear nasal discharge, but as it worsens the discharge may become purulent, possibly triggering other conditions. So once owners find the dog has a cold, promptly give it dog-specific cold medicine and keep it warm.

II. Clear Nasal Discharge May Mean Distemper

If a dog is infected with distemper, early symptoms are not much different from a cold — both show clear nasal discharge. But as it worsens, the discharge becomes serous, eye discharge increases, and temperature rises. Canine distemper must be treated at a hospital promptly, otherwise it may cause complications. Distemper is also contagious, so isolate the sick dog to avoid spreading to other animals.

III. Clear Nasal Discharge May Mean Acute Rhinitis

If the dog not only has clear nasal discharge but also sneezes, and the clear discharge quickly turns into serous purulent discharge, the dog likely has acute rhinitis. Besides the above, the dog shakes its head or scratches its nose, showing great discomfort. Acute rhinitis is generally caused by air pollution, so owners should move the dog to a well-ventilated, clean place for treatment promptly. Normally also keep the dog’s living environment clean; a clean, comfortable place benefits the dog’s physical and mental health.

The problem of clear nasal discharge in dogs can be minor or major; the most important thing is to observe whether other symptoms accompany it, and treat promptly if so. If you have other related questions, you can also consult an online pet veterinarian.