Dogs are resilient animals but it is important to keep them in good shape. This can include dealing with nasal issues that arise from time to time. In certain dogs, it’s common for their noses to get clogged. This is why you may wonder, how do you unclog a dog’s nose?
The best way to unclog a dog’s nose is to use a humidifier and/or vaporizer. The excess steam will help open the dog’s nose leading to a noticeable discharge. This can be wiped away with a soft cloth.
It’s essential to take your time when doing this to make sure the dog can still breathe well. You don’t want to make the process uncomfortable as that might stress the dog out.
Key factors include:
- Type of Dog
- Use of Steam
- Amount of Discomfort
As you ask “How do you unclog a dog’s nose?” it’s common to assume the problem will go away on its own. This is true, but it might become a prolonged situation for the dog that is increasingly uncomfortable.
To provide relief, you will have to learn how to unclog a dog’s nose safely. As long as you do this, you are going to be well on your way to keeping your dog healthy.
This article will answer “How do you unclog a dog’s nose?” while focusing on which solutions work the best for your dog’s needs.
Table of Contents
Best Vaporizer for Dogs (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
- WARM MIST HUMIDIFIER – Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier helps to ensure proper humidity levels in your home. Indoor humidity...
- COUGH AND CONGESTION RELIEF – Vaporizers for bedroom and home can be helpful during cold season, when it’s difficult...
- QUICK AND EASY TO USE – This filter-free humidifier can be used with Vicks VapoSteam for medicated vapors. With a 1...
Last update on 2023-09-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Tips On How To Unclog A Dog’s Nose
1. Use a Humidifier or Vaporizer
You will have to find a way to create steam in the room.
This can be done in several ways including using a targeted humidifier or vaporizer. These are valuable items to have lying around the house to make sure your dog is as healthy as it needs to be.
For those asking “How do you unclog a dog’s nose?” you can also stick to a hot shower. Just set up the shower, turn it on, and the steam will start to flow through the bathroom.
You can have the dog sit in the bathroom. This is key when you help a dog unclog its nose. As the steam enters the nose, it’s going to loosen the clogged nostril and make it easier for the dog to smell properly.

2. Use a Soft Damp Cloth
When asking “How do you unclog a dog’s nose?” you will have to do something with the liquid discharge that comes out of the nose after using steam.
Whether it is a humidifier or a hot shower, it is important to account for the discharge. You don’t want it dribbling down the dog’s nose leaving a mess.
This is why a soft damp cloth is enough to make sure the dog is comfortable and the nose is clean.
In some cases, there is going to be noticeable discharge.
This means it is doubly important to be careful during the process and ensure the nose is unclogged the way it needs to be.

3. Don’t Stick Things In The Nose
This is a common and dangerous mistake.
You should never stick your finger and/or anything else up the dog’s nose. This might seem like a good idea but it is incredibly dangerous and distressing for the dog.
Anyone asking “How do you unclog a dog’s nose?” should never consider this as a reasonable option to unclog a dog’s nose.
If your dog has a blocked nose, this means it is time to use natural methods such as steam. It will be more than enough to get the job done.
Most dogs will see their nose get unclogged after 15-20 minutes.
Related Questions
1. How Can I Help My Dog With A Stuffy Nose?
The best way to help a dog with a stuffy nose is to use a humidifier or vaporizer. This will create natural steam that will help loosen the dog’s nose. You can then wipe the discharge using a cloth.
2. Can You Flush Out A Dog’s Nose?
Yes, you can use a pet-friendly saline solution to flush out a dog’s nose. It’s recommended to do this gently and make sure only a small amount of saline is being used for the task at hand. You should do one nostril at a time to make sure the dog is at ease.
Final Thoughts
“How do you unclog a dog’s nose?”
The best option for unclogging a dog’s nose is to start using steam. This can come from any source such as a hot shower, vaporizer, and/or humidifier depending on what is available to you.
Using steam will create discharge that can be wiped away easily.
Here’s more on dogs – stopping dogs from opening doors, letting dogs eat hot fries, young dogs with their moms, and setting up safe dog ramp at home.