German Shorthaired Pointers are fantastic and intelligent pets that many love, but they sometimes have unfortunate health issues that arise. One of the health concerns is a dry nose.
GSPs commonly have dry noses, but it may not happen all the time. One common health concern in GSPs is called nasal hyperkeratosis. With the right moisturization, dogs can heal from it quickly.
Continue reading the remainder of this article to learn more about why it is common for German Shorthaired Pointers to develop a dry nose and how to prevent their health from deteriorating.
Why Do German Shorthaired Pointers Frequently Have Dry Noses?
Having a dry nose is never a fun experience, and it can be uncomfortable and challenging to deal with. Fortunately, there are reasons why your dog may have a dry nose, which can make the healing and prevention process much easier. These means that, in many cases, a dry nose shouldn’t be a cause for worry.
German Shorthaired Pointers develop dry noses frequently because of certain health or environmental conditions. A change in your dog’s diet, exposure to certain weather conditions, allergies, and dehydration can create dryness in your pup.
Although the German Shorthaired Pointer breed is not a flat-faced breed, they still are exposed to dry noses more often than other breeds. Luckily, this is not a huge concern for owners to worry about.
Most times, the reason for a dry nose is fairly benign, and owners can add a moisturizing cream to their pup’s nose to mend it. If you notice that there is a large overgrowth of dry skin, your dog may have developed nasal hyperkeratosis.
Owners can take their pet to the veterinarian if they are concerned about it. However, you should first check to see if your dog has been exposed to the following environmental factors before doing so:
- Sunshine. Your pup might have a slight sunburn if its nose appears dry or crusty. Luckily, this symptom will resolve itself on its own.
- High winds and dry weather. Like people, weather can influence dogs. GSPs, in general, are sensitive animals, and dry weather or high winds can create dryness in their skin.
- Change of environment. If you take your dog to a new location and the elevation changes, they may develop a dry nose. This, however, will appear relatively mild.
- Lack of water or nutrients. One of the main reasons why pups have dry noses is because they are dehydrated or have a lack of nutrients in their diet. If you believe your dog has been eating differently or drinking less water, an easy fix is to change their diet.
- Ingredients that cause allergies. Allergies often occur in dogs, and most times, it is unnoticeable. However, a dry nose is one of the most common symptoms of allergies. Owners can consult with their veterinarian if they believe this is occurring in their pup.
Understanding Nasal Hyperkeratosis
It is never a fun experience when your pup has a major health issue at hand. One of those common health concerns in German Shorthaired Pointers is nasal hyperkeratosis.
Nasal hyperkeratosis is when a dog’s dry nose begins to develop large amounts of protein buildup, which shows as dry skin. It is common in many dog breeds but is especially something to look for in German Shorthaired Pointers.
German Shorthaired Pointers do not always have dry noses, but they also do not have super moist noses all of the time either. Luckily, owners can prevent this from occurring by mending their pet’s dry nose before it begins to worsen.
However, in many cases, this health issue can mend easily. Owners must find a topical treatment that contains keratolytic ingredients. These ingredients will help mend the buildup in your dog:
- Salicylic acid helps reduce skin swelling, redness, and inflammation. It also helps mend the pores.
- Lactic acid helps with healing the skin and diminishing extra amounts of dry skin. It is perfect for healing nasal hyperkeratosis.
- Urea is the ultimate moisturizer for the skin. It is extremely helpful for dogs that have a dry nose.
Is It Easy To Fix a German Shorthaired Pointer’s Dry Nose?
Dog owners everywhere tend to stress over their pup’s health, and there is a good reason for it. However, a dry nose is usually not something to stress too much over as it is not a major health concern.
It is easy to fix a German Shorthaired Pointer’s dry nose, especially when owners are aware of why they have a dry nose. Moisturizer, hydration, and even a moist towel can help your pet heal. If your dog has more extreme symptoms, a consultation with a veterinarian may be helpful.
Like other breeds, fixing your GSP’s dry nose can be an easy process. And preventing their dry nose from returning can also be relatively simple once owners know why they are experiencing a dry nose. Most times, dryness comes and goes and does not stay.
If you are interested in mending your pet’s dry nose, here are a few great solutions from Amazon.com:
- The Blissful Dog Nose Butter is fantastic. This butter is specific for German Pointers and comes in a tin. It will help restore your GSP’s nose back to health so they can smell efficiently.
- Vaseline Blueseal Petroleum Jelly is a simple option that works fantastically. This is safe for dogs and works great for dry noses that just need a little bit of moisture.
- Natural Dog Company Nose Balm is another option to consider. This option is available in three different sizes and helps mend chapped noses. It is a great option that is specifically made for dogs.
Final Thoughts
It’s no surprise that dry skin is a dog’s worst nightmare, especially on the nose. Dogs use their nose for survival and enjoy sniffing out their surroundings. Luckily, the right knowledge and assistance can make a huge impact.
Owners can try different moisturizing blends, consult with their local veterinarian, and help their dogs return to their optimal health in no time.