Seeing blood coming from your dog’s nose can be alarming. A nosebleed, called epistaxis, can be caused by something minor, like a bump to the nose, or by something more serious, like an infection, a tumor or a bleeding disorder. Here’s what to do right away and when a dog nosebleed needs a vet.
A knock to the nose during play, running into furniture or a scratch can cause a short nosebleed.
Grass seeds, sticks and other objects can get lodged in the nose. Dogs often sneeze hard, paw at their face and bleed from one nostril. Our article on reverse sneezing in dogs explains a common, harmless sneezing pattern that can be confused with this.
Bacterial or fungal infections, such as aspergillosis, can cause bleeding, thick discharge and sneezing.
A tooth root abscess, especially in an upper tooth, can break into the nasal passages. Our article on why your pet’s dental health matters explains the link.
In older dogs, a nosebleed from one nostril that keeps coming back can be a sign of a nasal tumor. Long-nosed breeds may be at higher risk.
Problems with blood clotting can cause nosebleeds, often from both nostrils, along with bruising or bleeding elsewhere. Causes include:
High blood pressure, sometimes linked to kidney disease or hormone problems, can also cause nosebleeds.
Go to a vet right away if:
Our guide to pet emergency signs explains other urgent symptoms.
Your vet may check:
Our article on understanding your pet’s blood work results explains common blood tests.
Treatment depends on the cause. It may include removing a foreign object, treating an infection, dental work, managing a clotting disorder or treating a tumor.
It can be minor, but repeated one-sided nosebleeds should be checked for foreign objects, infection or tumors.
Hard, repeated sneezing can irritate the nose, but frequent sneezing with blood needs a vet.
Talk to a licensed vet 24/7, even on holidays, by chat, voice call or video call. Your first month is free with code FREEMONTH, then US $9.99/month, at NYPTeleVet.com. One membership covers up to 6 pets, and you can cancel anytime.
Our vets can’t prescribe medication, but they’ll tell you what’s likely needed and when an in-person visit is the next step.
⚠️ Disclaimer: NYP TeleVet is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. For emergencies (trouble breathing, seizures, severe bleeding, collapse), go to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately.
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