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Should I worry if my puppy's nose leaks clear fluid when feeding?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 15 days old

When I feed my puppy it's this clear stuff that comes out her nose is that something I need to watch? Or am I feeding her to much?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 3rd, 2017

If there is milk coming out of the nose while you are bottle feeding this puppy then yes, there is cause for concern. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, meaning that the soft palate (roof of the mouth) did not properly fuse. Penelope should be checked immediately by a vet to verify that the palate is intact, and if it isn't she should be fed via a tube to ensure that she isn't regurgitating the milk. Once she is a bit older, the palate can hopefully be fixed with surgery.

I would have to say that clear discharge isn't normal either, and even if this isn't milk I would get it checked by a vet immediately to look for abnormalities in the palate and swallowing.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My newborn puppy sounds congested and has a runny nose when nursing.

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