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What causes a dog's runny nose, swollen nostrils, and loud breathing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | neutered | 12 years and 7 months old | 55 lbs

Hello, my 13 yr old Aussie, full size, has an issue with diarrhea, which we assume is because of his pancreatitis. We almost lost him last year to a severe onset and since has recovered. However, of lately he started the diarrhea again, not vomiting and no pain. BUT his nose is running and the membrane in his nostrils look swollen. He is constantly blowing the liquid out and you can hear it in his breathing when he is still. Could this be a type of infection, cold, or parasite?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 17th, 2019

Hello, thank you for your question about Blue.

Based on the symptoms that you describe it is possible that his nasal discharge and loud breathing could be an indication of any of the above mentioned problems. Dogs can develop upper respiratory infections secondary to bacteria or viruses. Another possible explanation is that Blue has rhinitis, or an inflammatory condition, most commonly associated with allergies. These symptoms can also be indicative of a nasal foreign body or possibly a nasal mass. There are "nasal mites" (or parasites) that can cause these symptoms, but these are very uncommon.

I would recommend having Blue evaluated by your veterinarian so that they can perform an examination and evaluate his lungs and nose. Depending on these findings they can discuss the need for additional diagnostics and discuss possible treatment options.

Hope this helps, good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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