The nose is one of the most unique features of pugs. It is large and round, and some say it looks like a squished-up human nose. The Pug’s nose is quite sensitive too, and they use it to smell everything around them. This can be a good thing and a bad thing, as they can sometimes miss things that are right in front of their noses due to the shape!
In this article, we will give some suggestions to help you take care of the precious pug nose and the common problems associated to it so you can maintain optimum health of your pug.
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Pug Nose Crusting and Congestion
Their flat noses lead to congenital deformities. And more acute infections and the most common problem is the crusting of their nose. Which can become infected which is identified by thickened reddened mucosa.
Crusting of the nose is a common problem for brachycephalic dogs. And can be quite uncomfortable for your pug pets. If you have a brachycephalic dog, it’s important to keep an eye on its nose. And clean it regularly to prevent any crusting or build-up.
We will tell you how to distinguish and what to do if your pug’s nose is dry and crusty. You’ll read that below.
Pug Nose Swelling
Your pug’s short snout causes him to breathe through his mouth. Eventually, an elongated soft palate can cause the tissues in his nose to swell. Leading to a secondary respiratory infection. The best way to prevent respiratory illnesses is to schedule regular visits.
With an experienced breeder or veterinarian. Who can check him for possible problems and issue appropriate medication if needed.
What is Nasal Hyperkeratosis on Pugs?
Nasal hyperkeratosis is a condition that results in an overgrowth of keratin on the surface of the nose. This can cause the nose to become dry, cracked, and crusty. In severe cases, the overgrowth of keratin can even block the airways. Making it difficult for the pug dog to breathe on their nose.
Nasal hyperkeratosis is most commonly seen in older pugs, but it can occur in any age group. There are several possible causes of nasal hyperkeratosis. Including allergies, autoimmune disease, and infection.
Treatment for nasal hyperkeratosis typically involves the use of medicated shampoos and creams. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the excess keratin. More treatments below.
Nasal hyperkeratosis is most commonly seen in pugs and other dogs with long noses. Such as dachshunds, basset hounds, and Shih Tzus. It is also seen more frequently in dogs who live in humid climates.
Also known as a nasal plaque or nasal crust. Nasal hyperkeratosis on dogs is a common condition caused by dryness and irritation. Some dogs show signs of this, while others don’t exhibit any outward symptoms. In some cases, the skin in the nose becomes darker, which makes it easy to spot. However, in other instances. The only notice that something could be wrong is excessive rubbing of the nose. They usually rub their noses on things like carpeting and furniture.
Other dogs who suffer from nasal hyperkeratosis typically display the following characteristics:
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Flat-faced breeds
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Small breeds
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Large breeds
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Heavy-boned breeds
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Heavy-bodied breeds
Why Do Pugs Suffer from Nasal Hyperkeratosis?
One of the main reasons why pugs suffer from nasal hyperkeratosis is because they have a lot of hair inside their noses. This hair can trap bacteria and other allergens. Which can cause the nasal tissue to become inflamed and irritated.
Pugs also tend to breathe through their mouths. Which can cause the airways to become dry and irritated. This can also lead to the development of nasal hyperkeratosis.
This condition can occur when there is too much keratin in the pug’s nose. A protein that helps form the outer layer of skin. This can cause the nose to become dry, cracked, and scaly. In severe cases, it can even lead to nosebleeds. Nasal hyperkeratosis is most commonly seen in pugs, but it can also affect other dog breeds. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the excess tissue.
This is also caused by a recessive trait. And is, therefore, more prevalent in the parent-to-offspring line. And more likely to occur in Pugs with heavy wrinkles around the face. Normally, dogs have little-to-no hair inside their noses.
But this condition can lead to excessive growth of hair due to excess sebum. Which occurs when too much keratin is produced around the nose area. Resulting in a hardened layer of black or tan-colored skin above and inside the nostrils.
Nasal hyperkeratosis is an inherited condition in pugs. And it’s a common disease in this line of the breed. But that doesn’t mean it has to be part of your pug’s life. If you have a pug and suspect your dog has this condition, pay a visit to your vet right away. It is best to start treatment early on in order to get the most out of it.
How to Treat your Pug’s Nose with Nasal Hyperkeratosis?
There are a few steps you can take to help treat pugs with nasal hyperkeratosis. The first is to keep the area clean and free of mucus, which you can do by using a saline solution or nasal aspirator. You may also need to trim the hair around your dog’s nose to help keep it clean and dry.
In some cases, your vet may prescribe a medicated ointment or cream to help treat the condition. If your dog’s nose is extremely dry and cracked, you may need to apply a pet-safe moisturizer to help soothe the skin.
The other way to treat it is by gently cleaning the affected area with a soft cloth and warm water. You may also want to apply a topical ointment or cream to help soften the keratin and promote healing. If your Pug’s condition does not improve after a few weeks of treatment. You may need to see a veterinarian for further help.
This condition can sometimes be a sign of other underlying health issues. So it’s important to get a full diagnosis of this dog’s condition. With proper treatment, most pugs with this condition can live happy and healthy lives!
You can also use products that are made with several different oils and butter. Like shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil, which blend together to create a medical mixture. It is also designed to absorb in layers on your dog’s nose.
Lighter oils penetrate the skin first, offering fast relief. Then the medium-weight oils are absorbed, which adds a layer of deeper moisture. Finally, the thick butter melts into your dog’s nose, resulting in long-lasting relief.
Once you’ve found a nose balm product that suits your dog’s needs. Apply the butter two to three times a day for three days. Test the crust at the end of the third day and see if it’s starting to crumble.
If the symptoms do not improve, continue to apply the nose balm several times daily. If it does crumble, you’ll want to start applying it again every two or three weeks. Depending on the dog’s age or the severity of the nasal hyperkeratosis, your dog will most likely need more weekly applications.
Pug Nose Butter
Since crusty noses are a common problem for pugs, and they can be very painful and unsightly.
Pug-nose butter can help to alleviate this problem by keeping the nose moist and healthy. Pug-nose butter is a cream that is applied to the noses of pugs to help them keep their noses moist and healthy. It is made of natural ingredients, including beeswax, coconut oil, and lavender oil, and is free of chemicals and fragrances.
Pug-nose butter helps to protect the pug’s delicate skin from the sun and wind. And it also moisturizes the nose to help prevent cracking and dryness. Many pugs suffer from dry, cracked noses, and pug-nose butter can help to alleviate this problem.
Pug owners who use this cream report that their pugs’ noses are less dry, less red, and less itchy. In addition, pug nose butter can help to reduce the amount of crusting that occurs on a pug’s nose. Pug-nose butter is a safe, natural way to keep your pug’s nose healthy and moisturized.
Conclusion
Pugs are susceptible to a vast array of both minor and dangerous medical conditions. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a short snout. This can cause a number of respiratory problems in pugs and other similar dog breeds. Including difficulty breathing, snoring, and snorting. Some pugs also suffer from reverse sneezing where they make an alarming honking noise when they inhale.
While these problems usually aren’t serious. They can be quite uncomfortable for the pug. While you can try your best to take preventive measures. Quite often you will be unable to prevent an illness from developing.
Pug-nose diseases can be a challenge for many dog owners. But once you have the right information on your side, it’s easy to get things done. You can provide your pug with the best possible care. We hope this article has helped to educate you on some of the most common diseases affecting pugs and their treatment options.
If you are still concerned about your pug’s health due to nose problems. Please consult with your personal veterinarian. They will be able to provide you with personalized care and advice specific to your pug’s individual needs.
We also have other blogs to help you deal with common pug problems.