You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Yet, problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes. Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world. A dry nose is especially common for dogs with flat faces like a French Bulldog.
Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. Alexandra Horowitz, author of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know, goes so far as to say dogs “see with their noses.”
But in order for the incredible sensory apparatus within the canine nose to operate at full capacity, the external skin must be moist and spongy. Take a look at how your French Bulldog’s nose works so efficiently:
Brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldogs are especially prone to dry, cracked noses due to the anatomy of their heads. “Brachycephalic” refers to any dog breeds with broad, short skulls. Their noses sit high on their stubby muzzles, making it difficult to reach them with their tongues.
Luckily, protecting your Frenchie from the discomfort and decreased sensory input of a dry nose can be achieved in two simple steps:
Step 1: Pinpoint the Cause(s)
A dog’s dry nose doesn’t have one clear cause. It could be the result of numerous changes in their routine or lifestyle. Here are a few common causes for a dry nose on a French Bulldog:
Weather: You may notice that your dog’s nose is affected by extreme heat or cold, or that sun exposure contributes to its dryness. Indoor heating in the winter can also be a culprit.
Allergies: French Bulldogs are often prone to seasonal, contact, and food allergies. You may want to avoid plastic bowls and toys, and consult with your vet about your dog’s particular sensitivities. The allergen could even be a common ingredient in your dog’s food.
Dehydration: Make sure your dog drinks plenty of fresh water, especially in hot, humid weather. If they are drinking or urinating excessively, see your vet. They can rule out diabetes or problems with kidneys, which can cause dehydration.
Extra Sleep: Lazier dogs, especially seniors, are often more prone to dry noses. When dogs sleep, they’re not licking their nose. This often makes their nose dry if they’ve recently taken a nap. In most cases, their nose should naturally become wet again once they fully wake up.
Medical Conditions: There are several medical conditions that can contribute to a dog’s dry nose, including neurological issues that cause excessive licking and autoimmune disorders. See your vet regularly and report any concerning symptoms. They may recommend lab work to rule out a serious problem.
Step 2: Apply A Soothing Nose Balm
Barring any underlying medical condition, you can begin to heal your dog’s crusty nose with a soothing product like dog nose balm. Hand-mixed on a family farm in Minnesota, this cruelty-free balm is composed of a mixture of Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Beeswax, Avocado Oil, Coca Seed Butter, and Castor Oil. All these items can be used as natural remedies for your French Bulldog’s dry nose. Yet, this product utilizes all of them together for the greatest effect.
You can relieve nasal hyperkeratosis by applying certain oils to a dog’s dry nose (many great products available on Amazon) Over time, the keratin overgrowth on your dog’s crusty nose can become brittle and fall off.
One product on the market that we use and recommend is Natural Dog Company’s Snout Soother. This particular brand contains different oils and butters (such as Shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil) designed to absorb in layers on your dog’s nose. First, the lighter oils soak in and bring fast relief. Then the medium-weight oils absorb, adding a layer of deeper moisturizing. Finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s dry nose, bringing extra relief.
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Once you’ve selected a nose balm product, apply the butter 2-3 times a day for 2-3 days. At the end of the third day, test and see if the crusty part of the dog’s nose is beginning to crumble. If it doesn’t, continue daily applications, but if it does crumble off, begin a maintenance schedule of 2-3 applications a week. Your dog may need more weekly applications depending on their age or the severity of the nasal hyperkeratosis.
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The different oils and butters absorb into the skin at varying rates, ensuring maximum, long-lasting effects. First, the lighter oils soak in for fast results. Next, the medium-weight oils add a deeper layer of moisture. Finally, the heavy-duty butters melt into your dog’s nose, bringing extra relief. All this moisturizing goodness works hard to heal your pup’s sniffer and offer some much need relief.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional.
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