Why Does My Boxer's Nose Peel?

Peeling of the skin of the nose in your dog may be a common occurrence, but this does not mean that you should ignore it altogether. Nose peeling might be the result of dehydration, overexposure to the sun or may be the indication of a more serious condition altogether.

  1. Prevention/Solution

    • A common ailment in dogs that are outside a lot is sunburn. Although your pet's nose is dark, it is susceptible to sunburn, even on a cloudy day. If you find your dog's nose peels a lot, particularly after a day in the park or in the backyard, consult your dog's vet for a safe sunscreen that you may apply to the top of your dog's nose.

    Considerations

    • If you are spending a lot of time in the park and your companion seems to be thirsty when you come home, try taking a bottle of water with you so that your dog may have a refreshing treat on the run. Your dog's peeling nose may be the result of dry skin, which could happen as a result of dehydration when outside for too long of a period at one time, or it may also result from living in a dry corner of the house. If you suspect that this might be the case, consider putting a humidifier in an out-of reach area in the room to see if this assists your dog's dry or peeling nose condition.

    Effects

    • A humidifier may also help your dog if he or she has a cold that is causing the peeling nose. Is your boxer exhibiting other symptoms of illness such as slowness getting up or walking, indications of infection such as excess mucous production, sneezing or coughing? If so, he or she may be experiencing a virus or other infection and should be examined by a vet.

    Theories/Speculation

    • Plastic dog bowl.

      Your pet may have an allergy to the plastic in which his or her food is kept. Try a ceramic or steel bowl and see if the peeling stops. Any prolonged skin irritation in a dog may indicate an internal allergy. Consult a holistic veterinary practitioner to see if a change in diet might help your dog. An elimination diet might help your pet overcome allergies that is causing his or her nose to peel.

    Warning

    • Has your pet been in any environments where he or she could have experienced any caustic substances or drying agents? Has your yard recently been sprayed? Do you have any powders or disinfectants used around your home that your pet could have gotten into? If so, consult your vet as how best to clean your dog from the toxic substances and how you can treat any residual symptoms.

    Potential

    • Healthy dog nose

      A type of lupus may affect your dog's nose by creating a progressive syndrome of peeling skin, change in texture of the nose, sores around the edges of the nose, and even sensitivity to sunlight. Ask your vet if you believe that your dog is experiencing a type of lupus that affects several breeds.