Nose Bleeds in Dogs

A nosebleed, or epistaxis, in a dog can be frightening for the pet's human guardian. There are many possible causes for a nosebleed--some very serious and some not so. However, the first steps are to remain calm, provide your pet with proper first aid and get your dog to a veterinarian for diagnosis.

  1. First Aid

    • If you dog has a nosebleed, keep the pet calm. Apply an ice pack to the bridge of the dog's nose to slow bleeding.

    Causes

    • Blood-clotting disorders, including the possibility of the dog having ingested rat poison, are possible causes of a nosebleed. Conditions causing a low platelet count, such as a drug reaction or a bone marrow disease, also may be responsible.

    Accompanying Symptoms

    • Many dogs that have a nosebleed often have black stool or will vomit blood. This is generally caused by swallowing blood and doesn't indicate bleeding internally.

    Veterinarian

    • You should get your dog to a veterinarian immediately following the nosebleed. The doctor will need to know about any medications your dog is taking, if there is a possibility the pet may have ingested a poison of if there is possibility the pet may have had trauma to the nose.

    Tests

    • The veterinarian will do several types of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the dog's nosebleed. These will include blood tests, x-rays, blood pressure checks and possibly further examination of the dog's nose and body under general anesthesia.