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My dog has clear runny nose & sneezes but eats fine. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 4 months old

Hi my dogs had a runny nose which is clear liquid just looks like water and sneezing last few days but still eats fine and does toilet fine.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 20th, 2016

It sounds like Bailey may have a minor respiratory infection or allergies - both of these are common causes of a runny nose and sneezing in dogs. In most cases, this problem will resolve on its own so as long as he is eating and drinking fine, active, and not having any other symptoms, it should be okay to monitor him at home for the next few days. You can try bringing him into the bathroom with you with the door closed while you take a hot shower, if you like - the steam and humidity will often help to relieve nasal congestion and temporarily improve his symptoms.

If the discharge becomes yellow or green in color, or if he begins acting lethargic or not wanting to eat, I would recommend having him examined by a vet as he may need prescription antibiotics to treat the infection.

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 24th, 2018
I'm sorry to hear that Bailey is not feeling well. Being such a young puppy, he needs to be evaluated by his veterinarian. Hopefully, he just has an upper respiratory infection and will recover with some treatment. You need to sure that is not something more serious though. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on May 8th, 2017
Bailey's symptoms may have several causes including allergies, infection or even foreign body in her nose. Have her examined by your veterinarian for a diagnosis. If the mucus is green or yellow, there could be infection. Allergies can be frustrating to diagnose since they have so many causes (inhaled, contact, food sensitivities, etc.). Allergies can also be seasonal in nature. Antihistamines can be dispensed by your vet if indicated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 6th, 2018
Sneezing can be a sign of an upper respiratory infection, particularly if the nasal discharge looks thick yellow or green. If the discharge is clear, it could also be a sign of allergies or just nasal irritation. If the discharge is colored I would recommend seeing your veterinarian once they are open. If Bailey's appetite becomes decreased or she begins coughing you may want to consider seeing an emergency veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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