Observing a dog pressing their snout against the carpet or grass might raise some eyebrows. While some canines indulge in this behavior simply for the pleasant sensation, others may signal an underlying health concern by rubbing their noses raw. Here’s a breakdown of typical reasons for this behavior and strategies to prevent it:
Facial Cleanliness
Dogs often resort to the nearest surface to scrub off food, dirt, or other substances entangled in their fur. Breeds with facial folds, such as pugs, Boston terriers, and bulldogs, are particularly prone to this. To mitigate their need to rub their noses, owners of these breeds should regularly cleanse their dog’s facial wrinkles.
Itchiness
Although occasional scratching isn’t alarming, persistent nose rubbing might indicate that a dog is suffering from allergies, parasites like fleas or mites, or a skin condition. Signs of itchiness include red, irritated skin and scratching beyond just the nose area.
Pain or Discomfort
A dog persistently rubbing its nose on various surfaces could be attempting to alleviate discomfort stemming from an obstruction in their nose, dental issues, or an insect sting or bite. Accompanying symptoms such as nosebleeds or nasal lumps could point to a more serious condition like a nasal tumor, as suggested by Care.com.
Separation Anxiety
Constant nose or face rubbing may also be a manifestation of anxiety. This is particularly noticeable when dogs rub their noses on their crates or other surfaces when left alone, as observed by Kingdom of Pets. Such behavior is characteristic of dogs experiencing separation anxiety.
When to Seek Veterinary Assistance
If a dog is observed rubbing their nose to the point of rawness, this typically indicates an underlying issue that requires attention. Veterinarians can address the sore nose and conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the root cause of the excessive rubbing. Treatment will depend on the findings regarding the dog’s health.
In the interim, owners can soothe their dog’s sore nose by gently cleansing it with soap and water, thoroughly drying it, and applying a modest amount of antibiotic ointment as advised by PetCoach. It’s important to use the ointment sparingly to prevent the dog from licking it off.
Preventing Nose Rubbing in Dogs
Addressing any underlying conditions will typically cease the nose rubbing behavior. If environmental or seasonal allergies are to blame, additional measures may be necessary, such as removing carpets, laundering bedding, and other fabrics that harbor allergens, and giving regular baths to eliminate allergens from the dog’s coat.
If a dog is rubbing their nose out of habit, owners can intervene by firmly saying “No!” as the behavior starts, then redirecting the dog’s attention with a toy, activity, or healthy treat, as recommended by Cuteness.
Given the array of potential issues indicated by nose rubbing, it’s advisable for owners to consult their veterinarian, even if the behavior has not yet resulted in a raw nose.
Contributor Bio
Jean Marie Bauhaus is a devoted pet parent, blogger, and novelist based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where her writing is often overseen by a group of furry companions.
