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Why is my large dog's nose crusty and discolored on one side?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 9 years and 3 months old | 120 lbs

Looking for recommendations on a large dog nasal infection. On one side only, color different in the nostril and a little crusty on outside of the nose.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 10th, 2018

When dogs have nasal discharge on one side only it indicates a problem in that nostril or sinus. They can get pieces of grass or seeds in their nose that can cause this in addition to a nasal polyp or tumor. This looks infected so I recommend a veterinary exam. They may need to sedate Bowser to flush out and examine in the nostril, the throat and may need an X-ray of his sinus. Often flushing out or removing an object will cure this. If it’s a polyp or mass removing some of it to get a biopsy and diagnosis may be needed. Antibiotics may be prescribed as well for the infection. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Bowser.

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