Signs & Symptoms of Chronic Rhinitis in Dogs

Chronic rhinitis is nasal condition that affects humans as well as dogs and other animals. Rhinitis itself is not a disease; instead it is a severe and potentially debilitating symptom caused by a number of different pathogens. Nasal tumors, fungi and viral infections are among the most prevalent causes of this condition in canines. Many of the symptoms of chronic rhinitis are produced by a variety of ailments, so it can be difficult to successfully diagnose the condition in its early stages.

  1. Sneezing and Discharge

    • Frequent sneezing, which may be accompanied by noticeable mucus discharge, often accompanies cases of chronic rhinitis. Rhinitis is more likely to cause significant nasal discharge than sneezing in dogs, according to the Michigan Veterinary Specialists. Not all dogs suffering from rhinitis will exhibit this symptom, but in most cases there will be at least some liquid discharge. These symptoms may also make the dog's nose more sensitive than usual, and dried mucus can irritate their skin.

    Breathing Problems

    • Dogs breathe through their nose most of the time, so sinus and nasal obstructions can be quite distressing for them. Breathing difficulties are a regular, and relatively obvious, symptom of chronic rhinitis. Dogs with the condition may pant excessively if they are unable to inhale through their nose. This may make them unusually restless and irritable. Dogs with rhinitis may also snore loudly and have trouble sleeping.

    Eye Problems

    • Dogs with chronic rhinitis may also have eye problems in addition to their other symptoms. The proximity of the eyes to the nasal cavity makes them vulnerable to acute sinus conditions. Tearing and mucus discharge, called conjunctivitis, from the eyes may be a sign of rhinitis or other respiratory ailments, according to The Whole Dog Journal. These symptoms may cause the dog to blink rapidly or develop a noticeable squint, which may temporarily obstruct their vision.

    Other Symptoms

    • While some of the general signs of chronic rhinitis, like sneezing and breathing problems, are common to many conditions, affected dogs may exhibit more specific symptoms that can make it easier to diagnosis the condition in a clinical setting. In some cases, dogs with rhinitis will occasionally sneeze out small quantities of blood due to damage to the sensitive tissue inside their noses. Dogs may also paw at their faces, or rub their face against the ground, when they experience nasal irritation, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.