My dog's scaly nose and watery eyes aren't sunburn. What is it?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Summer. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. She may have a common condition known as hyperkeratosis of the nasal planum. If this is not the case, a more serious condition such as an autoimmune disease should be considered. Discoid lupus usually appears as a cracked, bleeding and ulcerated nose. This is diagnosed by a skin biopsy. I hope this information helps!

I am so sorry to hear about Drako! It is definitely quite possible given the appearance and his breed that he could be suffering from an autoimmune disease such as lupus. Other possibilities would include bacterial and fungal infections, solar dermatosis (sensitivity to sun) and zinc responsive dermatosis, and less commonly cancer. It looks like if your dog didn't respond to the antibiotics and steroids then some additional testing needs to be done. A biopsy is the fastest way to determine what the problem here could be. I would recommend discussing this with your vet and if they don't feel comfortable asking for a referral to a specialist.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Ariel. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. She may need to have biopsies taken from the affected skin on her nose. I am concerned that she has developed an autoimmune skin disease where the body attacks it's own skin cells. In this case, an accurate diagnosis is necessary to prescribe medications to manage the disease. I recommend having her seems soon as the cracking skin on the nose can result in terrible bleeding if it gets deep enough. I hope this information helps!

According to the pictures it looks like Nikki may have an infection in her skin. This can be caused by bacteria or yeast. I would recommend having your vet take a look at Nikki, she will most likely need medication to help heal her. I hope Nikki is feeling better soon and then you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hello. It looks like Reina may have Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE). It is common in her breed. It is an autoimmune disease of the skin that causes loss of pigment and scaling (usually around the nose first) and worsens with exposure to UV sunlight. A biopsy is needed to make a definitive diagnosis. I would suggest you take her to your vet for an exam and to talk about the biopsy so you can get a diagnosis and to talk about treatment options. Here is a link for you to read about DLE: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2470 I hope this helps. Best wishes to you and Reina. Dr. Amber

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Murphy. A common condition known as hyperkeratosis can cause a crusty nose. This is more of a cosmetic probelm and may be what his veterinarian was referring to at your last appointment. If the nose cracks, bleeds or the pigment changes to white or pink though, this is concerning. It can indicate an autoimmune disease. This would need to be diagnosed with a biopsy. In the first scenario, I usually will treat with a topical ointment to dissolve the extra skin or keratin. You need to wear gloves when applying it though as it can dissolve the skin on your finger tips. His veterinarian will be able to prescribe this ointment. I hope this information helps!

From the photos it appears that the lesion is affecting both the mucosa of his nose and also his skin. This could be some sort of deep bacterial infection or perhaps something like ringworm (which humans can get). It is also very concerning however for an autoimmune condition. I recommend to have a Bosco visit his veterinarian with in the next day for an exam. The doctor may try treatment or testing for an infection. The doctor may also recommend a biopsy. A biopsy is needed to diagnose an autoimmune condition. Best of luck. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.