Do you have a dog whose nose turns pink as the weather outside gets colder? If so, your dog might have what is commonly referred to as snow nose. But cold weather isn't the only reason some dogs' noses turn pale. Want to know why dogs' noses turn pink, and whether it is something you should worry about? Here's what you need to know.
What Is Snow Nose?
Snow nose is a common term for a dog nose that's loses pigment and turns from black/brown to pink. Typically, this either appears as spots or as a stripe down the center of the nose, says Life In the Dog Lane.
Dogs are more likely to get snow nose during the winter or in cold climates. However, snow nose isn't limited to dogs in northern climates, as was once believed. It's usually temporary, with pigment returning to normal once the weather warms up. But as dogs get older, their snow noses sometimes stick around all year.
While snow nose doesn't seem to be restricted to certain types of dogs, some breeds are more likely to get it than others. Snow nose most commonly occurs among Siberian huskies, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers and Bernese mountain dogs — all breeds that are originally from northern climates.
Why Do Dogs' Noses Turn Pink?
No one knows for sure what causes snow nose. One possible explanation is that it's caused by the breakdown of tyrosinase, the enzyme that produces melanin, or skin pigment, says Cuteness. Tyrosinase is sensitive to cold temperatures and also tends to break down with age. This fails to explain, however, why snow nose only occurs in some dogs and why it can also affect dogs in warmer climates. The answers to these questions remain a mystery.
Tasty Tips
Should You Worry If Your Dog Gets Snow Nose?
Snow nose doesn't need to be treated by a doctor any more than gray hair in humans needs to be. And there's no way to restore lost pigment to your dog's nose. That said, melanin helps protect your dog's tender nose from sun damage. Without this natural protection, you'll need to limit your dog's sun exposure or apply a dog-friendly sunscreen to their nose before they go into the sun.
And while the exact cause of snow nose is unknown, some veterinarians recommend having your dog's thyroid checked out in order to rule out a thyroid issue as a possible cause, says The Spruce Pets. Some vets also believe that loss of pigment could be a reaction to chemicals leaching from plastic food or water dishes. To be on the safe side, switch your dog's bowls to metal or ceramic if they aren't already. And it's always a good idea to report any sudden changes in the appearance of your dog's nose to your vet.
Snow nose is a fairly common occurrence and usually not cause for concern. Once any health issues are ruled out, you can rest easy knowing there's nothing wrong with your pet — even if their newly pink nose might take some getting used to.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew Can Variety Pack Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken & Rice Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew dog food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Related articles
Learn About the Best Dog Breeds for Children
Learn tips for choosing the best dog breed for your children and family, considering things like breed size, energy level, temperament and age.
How to Compare Dog Years to Human Years
Learn how to simply and inexpensively build a DIY dog ramp to help your dog get up & down more easily (great for senior dogs & those with mobility issues).
Angular Limb Deformities in Dogs: Types, Causes & Treatment
Learn about angular limb deformities in dogs, including types of deformities, why they happen and treatment options for dogs that have this condition.
Adopting Two Dogs at Once: Key Considerations
You've always wanted a pet, and you're wondering if you should adopt one or two dogs. Learn more about what you need to consider before deciding.
Special Diet Needs for Large & Giant-Breed Puppies
Large and giant breed puppies have different nutritional needs than other dogs. Learn how to provide the special care they need to grow up big and strong.
Whipworms in Dogs: Signs, Treatment and Prevention
Whipworms in dogs are a common problem. Learn what they are, the signs and how whipworms in dogs are diagnosed, treated and prevented.
Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Your Dog
Read to learn about 5 human foods that are toxic to dogs. Learn their effects on a dog's health and what to do if they accidentally eat one of these foods.
Choosing the Best Dog Breed for You
Get tips on how to pick your next dog, and learn what things you should consider when choosing a puppy.
Lumps on Your Dog: Common Types & What You Should Know
Learn about common types of lumps & bumps you might notice on your dog, tips for monitoring them over time and when they might become a health concern.
Dog Ear Cropping, Tail Docking and Other Cosmetic Canine Surgeries to Avoid
Learn about the most common cosmetic canine surgeries like dog ear cropping, dewclaw removal & tail docking, and why vets usually recommend avoiding them.
Can Your Dog Smile At You?
It may look like your dog is grinning, but can dogs smile for real? Learn about their facial expressions & whether their face can actually show happiness.
Pyoderma in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn what pyoderma in dogs looks like, what causes it and how nutrition & your dog's food can play a role in preventing and treating the infection.
How to Stop Your Dog From Barking at the Door
Learn why dogs bark at the sound of the doorbell ringing and how to train them not to.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Command Training Your Puppy
If you're interested in training your new puppy to sit, stay, lie down, fetch and more, then read these help command training tips from Hill's.
Finding A Lost Dog: What Should You Do?
Learn what to do if you find a lost dog, including important considerations for approaching the dog and how to keep both you and the dog safe.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Learn whether cheese is a snack that's safe for your dog, including specific types of cheese, ingredients to watch for and how much is ideal.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe While Hunting
If you're considering training your dog to help you hunt, follow these safety tips to make sure he stays out of danger.
How to Choose the Right Size & Type of Dog Crate
Deciding the best crate size isn't always straightforward. Learn factors to consider when choosing the size & type to get, including your dog's age & size.
Chondrodystrophic Dog Breeds: All About Short-Legged Dogs
All About Chondrodystrophic (Short Legged) Dog Breeds
Anemia in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, Prevention & More
Discover the clinical symptoms of anemia in dogs, why the condition occurs, how its diagnosed & treated, and how you can help with prevention in your dog.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.