Ever wondered why dogs have a wet nose?

A dog’s ability to detect scents is up to 10,000 time more sensitive than the human nose. As an example, they can sniff out one rotten apple among 2 MILLION barrels of apples. A wet nose enhances the ability to trap olfactory chemicals in the secretions produced in the glands of the nose.

Some dogs lick their nose, contributing to the “wet nose” look and enhancing the process of scent detection as those chemicals are processed in olfactory centres in the roof of their mouths. Dogs also produce more secretions from their nose as a way of regulating body temperature.

Sweat glands are found in the feet and nose and as such, a wet nose helps keep them cool. Should I worry if my dog has a dry nose? Nope! If the dog is otherwise happy and healthy, without dried discharge around the nostrils, a dry nose is not an indicator of illness

Should You Worry About a Dry Nose?

Not necessarily! A dry nose is not automatically a sign that your dog is unwell. Many healthy dogs can have dry noses at different times of the day, especially after sleeping or relaxing in the sun.

As long as your dog is otherwise happy, energetic, eating normally, and doesn’t have cracked skin or unusual discharge around the nostrils, there’s usually no cause for concern.

So next time your dog greets you with a cold, wet boop on the hand, you’ll know it’s all part of their amazing canine superpower.