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Dog losing hair under nose: Is it from licking, dry nose, or cold?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 10 months and 10 days old | 80 lbs

Hello, Within the past week I have noticed that my dog is losing hair in the area under her nose. I am wondering if this is a serious skin condition like ringworm or if it is just from her rubbing her face into the bed sheets or to do with the extremely cold weather we have been experiencing recently? I have noticed that with the cold weather her nose has been drier so she has been licking it more, so could this be the cause? Thank you for your time!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2018

These types of lesions are normally seen with a skin infection, but ringworm does not typically look like this. The fact that she has been licking more may be the reason for her developing a skin infection of her muzzle. These infections often develop when there is excessive moisture, or when something is irritating the muzzle. This can happen when their mouth has contact with a plant, or substance that irritates the skin.

These type of infections are usually managed well at home with daily cleaning. I recommend rinsing the are with cool water, then wiping it with a medicated wipe (can get this at the pet store). It's best if you can do this twice a day.

If the lesions are not starting to heal after a week of treatment, or are getting worse, then I recommend taking her to the vet. The vet will be able to diagnose the specific cause of this and provide the best treatment.

I hope that helps and Little Bear gets better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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