Nasal Mites in Dogs: Spot Symptoms, Treat & Prevent Them

Published on September 26th, 2024

Updated on October 15th, 2025

Reviewed by Petco's Veterinarian Team

SUMMARY OF CONTENT

Nasal mites are a common but rarely diagnosed mite that infects the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses of dogs and wild canines.

SEVERITY:

Severity is mild to severe

Usually resolves with proper treatment
Treatable by a veterinarian, and by the pet parent
Minimize contact of your dog with stray or infected dogs
Transmission is possible between dogs, there is not thought to be a zoonotic concern.
Diagnosis requires a physical examination and laboratory testing

VERY COMMON IN

Nasal mites can affect any dog regardless of breed, age, or sex.

Symptoms & Signs

Infestation with the nasal mite does not usually cause any serious symptoms, however in severe cases, some dogs will suffer from bouts of sneezing and nose bleeds. Other dogs may develop a chronic nasal discharge from the infection.

Diagnosis

If the infection causes symptoms, the mite may be identified by your veterinarian by taking a swab of the nasal passage and applying it to a microscope slide. There are usually a large number of mites visible on the slide if an active infection is present. Rhinoscopy, nasal flushing, radiographs, nasal biopsy, and routine blood testing may also be necessary to help diagnose the condition.

Causation

The mite lives inside the nasal passages, but some mites will travel to the outer edges of the nostril. The mites are very contagious and a healthy dog becomes infected when it has nose-to-nose contact with an infected dog. Infestation with the nasal mite is not frequently diagnosed, but should be considered as a cause of chronic sneezing, nosebleeds, or nasal discharge in dogs. Fortunately, if it is suspected, it is typically easily diagnosed and treated.

Treatments

AT-HOME CARE

Administer all medications as directed.

SUPPORTIVE CARE

None

MEDICATIONS

Treatment often consists of administering oral ivermectin. This is an off-label use of ivermectin in dogs, and the drug must be administered by or under the direct recommendation of a veterinarian. Selamectin and milbemycin oxime have also been effective at treating nasal mites in some cases. While many medications are often administered for ‘off-label’ or 'extra-label' use in veterinary medicine, it is important to know that off- or extra- label use of a medication can only be done by a veterinarian when there are no other more appropriate medications for a particular pet's circumstances. Your veterinarian must also know all vitamins, supplements, medications etc. your pet is taking to help avoid complications. You must also be sure to follow all instructions provided by your vet carefully and consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns if they arise.

SURGERY

None

SPECIALISTS

A general practitioner veterinarian typically manages most cases of nasal mites and a specialist is not needed.

Cost Of Treatment

Veterinary expenses can vary widely for a variety of reasons, however, nasal mite infection can usually be treated for less than $300.

Recovery

Pets with nasal mites should recover with proper treatment. The pet should be separated from other pets until the condition has been treated to reduce the risk of further infestation. In cases where symptoms do not resolve with treatment, your veterinarian may do additional diagnostics to determine if a concurrent respiratory disease is present.

Monitoring

The pet should be monitored for resolution of signs. A follow-up examination may be recommended to ensure the parasite has been eradicated.

Prevention

Prevention includes keeping your dog out of contact with infected or stray dogs.

Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. Treatment should only be provided under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.

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