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Why is my old dog's nose bleeding? Is it a tumor or something else?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I have a 13 yr old lab mix who has had nasal bleeding for several weeks. My vet did a CBC but did not see anything unusual. I can tell his nose bothers him due to him scratching it and shaking his head. Sometimes it is clear, greenish but lately a lot of bleeding. He is an inside dog and we have pet turf in our patio area. Without spending a couple thousand $ can we expect it to be nasal tumors. Like I said he is 13 yrs old and already has arthritis in his hips.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 11th, 2018

At 13 years of age, a nasal tumor would be most likely. A tumor typically would cause bleeding out of just one nostril. Other possibilities would be a severe bacterial infection, tooth root abscess, nasal foreign material (I've seen dogs that had toy stuffing in the nose), or fungal infection. Unfortunately anesthesia for nasal scoping and often CT scan is usually necessary to get a diagnosis.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 8th, 2016
Bleeding from the nose is usually not caused by a sinus infection, it could be a tumor in his nasal cavity, a foreign body or tick fever, antibiotics will not help. Contact a dog charity in your area of living, they can help with costs, but he really needs to see a vet.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on May 17th, 2019
It's possible there could be an injury, irritation, or foreign body stuck in the nose. If the bleeding continues or you see other signs such as trouble breathing, pawing at the nose, coughing, sneezing, etc, then it is best to seek out veterinary care and have it examined.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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