Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My new dog is sneezing, congested, and has a bloody nose. Is he sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered

I just adopted Tank yesterday, he was ok when we were bringing him home except he started sneezing. This morning there’s a lot of mucus along with some light blood draining from his nose. He sounds very congested as well. He’s drinking water ate eating a little but he just wants to sleep. He doesn’t seem like he has a temperature but does feel a little warm. He also had some little cuts on top of his nose when he was at the center. They mentioned to put antibiotic ointment to treat.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 25th, 2018

Congratulations on your adoption of Tank! That is a fair count of mucus draining from his nose. He likely has an upper respiratory infection from being in the shelter. He will need to be evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure this is the problem and nothing more serious. He will need to be prescribed medication as well. He can have the skin on his nose assessed at the same. In the meantime, keep encouraging him to eat and drink what he will. Keep him close to home and not around other dogs in case he is contagious. I hope this information helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Why does my newly adopted dog have a yellow runny nose and congestion?

This can happen. It can take up to two weeks for an upper respiratory infection to form when adopting a dog. I would recommend bringing Jordy to a vet and have him checked out. You would want to make sure his lungs sound clear and he does not have pneumonia or bronchitis. Your veterinarian can prescribe antibiotics if needed. I would also recommend when you shower to put him in the bathroom with you. The steam will help with the congestion. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why does my adopted puppy sneeze and have a snotty, runny nose?

Poor Miko! It sounds like she probably has an upper respiratory infection of some kind - this is very common in dogs who have come from a shelter or rescue environment with lots of other dogs. I would recommend taking her to the vet to have this checked, since she will probably need a course of antibiotics to treat the infection.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

New adopted puppy has green snot and sneezes. Should I see a vet?

It's not uncommon that these shelter pups end up with an upper respiratory infection and it looks like Raven and Scarlette got it. These are usually mild diseases, but can be controlled with medication. I would call the shelter soon and ask if you can schedule with their vet. Often, the adoption agreements allow for a two-week time period where you can bring the dog back for veterinary treatment. I hope that helps and good on you for adopting rather than buying.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My new puppy won't stop sneezing and is congested. Should I worry?

Congratulations on your new puppy! Sneezing and nasal discharge can be a sign of an upper respiratory infection, which requires treatment by a veterinarian. I recommend having Kyma seen by a vet as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading if untreated. I hope this helps and that all is well with Kuma!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My newly adopted dog sneezes and sleeps a lot. Is this normal?

He could have some allergies or possibly have an upper respiratory infection. You can monitor him for a few days and see if the sneezing resolves. If it continues, he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. He may need an anti-histamine or antibiotic to treat. As for the sleeping, it may take him some time to adjust to his new home. As long as he seems energetic when you take him out than it is probably nothing to worry about. You could have him examined by a vet if it continues. Good luck with your new dog......so nice that you adopted one!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My newly adopted dog sneezes & breathes heavily. Is it kennel cough?

Congrats on your new dog! It certainly is possible that Finn has a respiratory infection if he was living in the pound before coming to your home. I would have him seen by a vet tomorrow. The vet can diagnose if he does have a respiratory infection, and can prescribe medications to treat his symptoms. Tonight, if he's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing him into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My new puppy is congested, gagging, and raspy. Should I call the vet?

Congratulations on your new puppy! It sounds like Nashville may have an upper respiratory infection, or kennel cough. You are absolutely correct in being concerned, as this condition can progress down into the lungs and cause pneumonia if not treated. I recommend having her seen by a vet sooner than next week so that she can start the appropriate course of treatment. Your vet may even elect to postpone her shots until she is better to give her immune system to fight the infection properly.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share