Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Of the many ways dogs communicate their health, a wet nose is one of the most questioned and debated. Why are dogs' noses wet? Should my dog's nose be wet? Is a wet nose a sign of a healthy dog? Does a dry nose mean my dog is sick? Can a dog's nose be too wet?
Generally, a wet nose is a sign of a healthy dog, but it's not a guarantee. Most dogs have cool, damp noses when awake and active, and dry ones when sleeping or resting.1
More importantly, a wet nose helps your dog do what they do best: smell. With far more scent receptors than humans, dogs need that damp surface to catch scent particles. It also helps regulate their body temperature, acting as a cooling system.2 It's just a smart design!
Here are six main reasons why your dog's nose stays wet—and when a dry nose might mean something's up.
1. Natural Mucus Production
Inside your dog's nose are glands that produce a thin, clear mucus. This keeps the nasal passages moist with a clear, watery fluid that helps regulate body temperature and enhance their sense of smell.2 As long as the discharge is clear, it's normal. If you notice yellow, green or strange-smelling mucus, it's time to call your vet.3
A moist nose supercharges a dog's already insane sense of smell—estimated to be 1,000 to 10,000 times stronger than that of humans!2 Moisture helps scent particles stick to the nasal cavity and enhances how dogs interpret pheromones using Jacobson's organ (also called the vomeronasal organ), which is tucked between the nasal cavity and the roof of the mouth.4
When people say a dog's world revolves around scent, this is why. Scents stick to the surface of the nasal cavity much better with moisture present.2
2. Frequent Nose-Licking
One simple reason your dog's nose stays wet: They lick it. A lot. With long tongues and short snouts, dogs can easily coat their noses to help process scents and keep things clean—both of which sharpen their superpowered sense of smell.5 It's all about smell with dogs, isn't it?
Licking plays a big role in maintaining nose moisture, but it's also part of a dog's normal routine. Dogs lick their noses when it's mealtime, before play, after play, while exploring and even during grooming.5
While licking could simply be a nervous tick, if you are concerned about excessive licking that is disturbing or new behavior, call your veterinarian.
3. Evaporative Cooling
Dogs don't sweat through their skin like humans do. Instead, they release heat through their paw pads, their tongue and yes—their nose. A dog's wet nose acts as a cooling mechanism, helping regulate body temperature through evaporation of moisture.2
In warm weather, a wet nose is especially helpful, as it's a sign of good hydration.
4. Environmental Factors
Dogs are explorers by nature, constantly sniffing, poking and sticking their noses into just about everything. Wet grass, water bowls, puddles—you name it, their noses find it.6
Humidity, swimming and general outdoor play can all leave a dog's nose wetter than usual. Most of the time, it's nothing to worry about. But if your dog's nose suddenly seems runny or stays unusually wet, it could point to allergies or a nasal blockage, and it's worth a call to your vet.3
5. Breed Differences
Not all dog noses are created equal. Brachycephalic breeds—those with shorter snouts, like Pugs and Bulldogs—tend to have drier noses simply because of how their faces are built.6 Meanwhile, breeds with longer snouts, like Collies and Poodles, are more likely to have moist noses.
Some breeds, including German Shepherds, Border Collies and Huskies, are also genetically predisposed to skin conditions like nasal dermatoses.7
6. Possible Health Concerns
A wet nose is usually a good sign—but if your dog's nose is excessively runny, it could point to allergies, an infection or something more serious. Any discharge that's not clear could be a sign of illness, so follow up with your veterinarian if you notice any colorful mucus or blood on your dog's nose.3
What If My Dog's Nose Is Dry?
A dry nose isn't an automatic sign your dog is sick—and a wet nose doesn't guarantee perfect health either. A healthy dog can have a wet or dry nose at different times throughout the day. It's not a full picture of your dog's health! That's why quick checks every few hours give you a better sense of what's normal for your dog.
That said, if a dry nose sticks around, it could signal dehydration. Cracked, flaky skin—or a dry nose paired with symptoms like nausea, lethargy, fever or vomiting—warrants a call to your veterinarian.5
To keep your dog's nose healthy, ensure they always have access to fresh water. If dryness or cracking becomes an issue, talk to your vet about topical solutions like balms or oils.
Pets Best Is Here To Help
A wet nose is usually nothing to worry about. In fact, dogs' noses work best when they stay a little moist. Since it's something you'll notice every time you scratch their furry faces, keep an eye on it—and watch for any changes in your dog's overall health and behavior.
Protect your pup's health (and your peace of mind) with a customizable Pets Best dog insurance plan. Plus, you'll get 24/7 access to veterinary experts through our Pet Helpline—ideal anytime you have questions, day or night
Sources/ Citations
1. “Why Are Dog Noses Wet?" Sandra C. Mitchell (8/2021), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses
2. “Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?" Ryan Llera and Lynn Buzhardt (2021), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses
3. “Dog Nose Discharge: Common Causes and Treatments," Wendy C. Fries (5/2023), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/my-dog-has-discharge-from-nose
4. “What Is the Jacobson's Organ (Vomeronasal Organ) In Dogs? Anatomy and Uses," Nicole Cosgrove (2/2025), Dogster, https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/what-is-the-jacobsons-organ-in-dogs
5. “Why Your Dog Keeps Licking Their Nose," Kristin Kretzler (11/2024), BetterPet, https://www.betterpet.com/learn/dog-licking-nose
6. “Why Do Dogs Have Wet Noses?" Chantelle Pattemore (8/2024), Rover.com, https://www.rover.com/blog/why-do-dogs-have-wet-noses/
7. “Nasal Dermatoses in Dogs: What Are They and How Are They Diagnosed?" Brittany Kleszynski (2/2025), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/nasal-dermatoses-dogs-what-are-they-and-how-are-they-diagnosed