Show nose, despite its scary name, is a purely cosmetic issue that affects certain dogs in the winter months. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the basics of snow nose in dogs.
Content:
- What Is a Snow Nose in Dogs
- Why Do Dogs’ Noses Turn Pink
- When a Pink Dog Nose Might Be a Concern
- Conclusion
What Is a Snow Nose in Dogs
A snow nose in dogs, medically known as seasonal nasal hypopigmentation, is a temporary and cosmetic condition in which the dog’s nose turns pink or light brown.
Studies describe snow nose in dogs as a “seasonal depigmenting disorder.” The moniker snow nose is given because it typically occurs during winter months.
The exact cause of snow nose is unknown. Researchers believe it is associated with weather changes, the amount of daylight, UV exposure (some studies suggest that UV light damages pigment cells), and the levels of the tyrosinase enzyme (which breaks down pigment).
Finally, the dog’s genetics is postulated to be a contributing factor, since the condition is more frequently seen in certain breeds, such as Golden and Labrador Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
These breeds are known for their explorative habits and can easily wander. We suggest getting a GPS tracker to monitor their movements.
Why Do Dogs’ Noses Turn Pink
Dogs’ noses turn pink for various reasons, including genetics, old age, and the mysterious snow nose condition. Here is a short overview of all three causes.
- Genetics: Certain dogs are genetically wired to have unique levels and distribution of pigment in their noses. The liver gene, piebalding, and white spotting are all examples that result in pink-colored noses in dogs.
- Old Age: “Most dogs get different pigmentation as they grow and age,” says a Reddit user. Such pigmentation changes can occur in many places, such as the tongue, gums, belly, or nose.
- Snow Nose: Snow nose, or winter nose, is a poorly understood condition in which the dog’s nose loses pigment and becomes pinkish. In most dogs, the pigment restores in warmer months.
When a Pink Dog Nose Might Be a Concern
A pink dog nose can be a concern if accompanied by other lesions (sores, scabs, non-healing wounds), texture changes, discharge, swelling, pain, or irritation.
In the early stages, other conditions, such as trauma, lupus, pemphigus, and cancer, can mimic snow nose, warns Adrienne Kruzer, a vet technician, in an article for the Spruce Pets.
Conclusion
Snow nose in dogs is a cosmetic condition that stems from the loss of pigment in the nose and manifests with pinkish to white discoloration.
Usually temporary in nature, snow nose is harmless. Once the winter is over, the pigment tends to restore, and the dog’s nose returns to normal color.
However, if the nose discoloration is accompanied by other signs and symptoms, it is advisable to see a vet, as other conditions can mimic snow nose in their early stages.
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