“Happiness starts with a wet nose and ends with a wagging tail.”
Boop! Got Your Nose!
Quick! Someone call 911. My nose. It’s different. Someone stole my nose!! Deep breaths. Okay, let’s think about this rationally. Can someone actually steal the nose off of a Goldendoodle and replace it with another nose? I am not sure but when I asked my mom she assured me this didn’t happen. I heard her whisper something under her breath about me being dramatic again. I don’t know what that means but wouldn’t you be alarmed if you suddenly had a different nose? I wouldn’t have even noticed had I not walked by a store window on my walk last night and saw my reflection in the glass. There it was staring back at me. The cutest little pink nose I had ever seen. So what’s the problem you ask? The problem is that the last time I saw my nose, it was black!
Maybe it’s not the police I need. Instead, this might be a medical emergency! Is there a veterinarian in the house? Someone, please tell me I am going to be okay. I’m feeling faint. Is this really how it ends? Mom, please grab me a treat before I pass out!
My Magic Nose
Okay. So as it turns out I may have overreacted. I won’t be needing a detective or a veterinarian. You see, Mom did some research and I truly apologize if I alarmed anyone, but it would seem that my nose colour follows a seasonal pattern. That’s right. I have a summer nose and a winter nose. Wait. I don’t feel like I explained that correctly. I only have one nose, but it’s magic. It’s magic because it is black during the summer months and then it turns pink during the winter months. You see, I have what is called a winter nose. It can also be referred to as a snow nose. In medical terms, it’s called idiopathic nasal hypopigmentation. Apparently, it is common in golden retrievers, so I guess that trait must have been passed down to me from my dog mom. I have to admit, having a nose that changes colours is really cool and unique!
What Causes a Winter Nose and is it Harmful?
Good news my friends. A winter nose or snow nose is nothing to worry about. Experts think my magic nose may have to do with colder winter climates, which makes sense because it is crazy cold in Winnipeg right now. In fact, as long as my nose maintains its lovely cobblestone texture and isn’t dry, then I can continue being healthy and adorable. In fact, my waxing and waning nose colours are purely cosmetic and there’s no doubt that I am still as cute as a button no matter the season. It’s true. Just look how cute I am with my magic nose in these pictures.
Nose Health – How I Keep My Nose Healthy in a Cold Climate
During the winter it can be normal for a dog’s nose to become dry, flaky or crusty. I’m sure you’ve noticed your own skin becoming dry too. With the low humidity and cold temperatures, my dog nose needs a little extra care. My mom likes to keep my nose moisturized and soft with nose butter made just for dogs. A nose butter can be used to maintain a healthy nose, heal a dry nose, and protect a dog’s nose from becoming dry and flaky. It’s important that the nose butter be non-toxic because sometimes I like to lick my nose and mom doesn’t want me to eat any chemicals. The best part is many nose butters can also be used on dry paws, elbows, and doggie wrinkles too!
Happy Tail Wags. xo
Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail.
Kinky Friedman
Don’t worry sweetie you’re in good company, my Husky has a Snow Nose too! It’s very nice to meet you Juno!
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Awww. That’s neat that huskies get them too! Nice to meet you too. xo
I don’t think I knew that a dog’s nose could change color with the seasons. I can see why you were worried at first.
Living in Southern California I don’t think I’ve actually seen winter nose before – though I’ve definitely seen dogs with dry noses! Thanks for sharing this fun and information post! π
Thank you Nikki. I love Southern California. Definitely no winter noses there!
This is so interesting! I had no idea that Golden Retriever’s noses change color with the seasons. Hmmm…If your nose doesn’t turn pink when the A/C is on or blowing on you then, it must also have to do with daylight too. Like the leaves turning and dropping. My mind is turning now thinking about this change. I had a cat, who had a very pink nose. However, I always knew when she felt sick because her nose would turn white. I’ve never seen another animal’s nose turn color. Thank you for reminding me of her and letting me know about this nose condition with Juno. It does spin my mind trying to figure it out. But the good news is Juno is adorable either way. I’m sure my dog, Henry would love playing with him. Even though Henry’s nose doesn’t change colors. π€£πΆπ
I agree, Terri. Iβve never had a dog with a winter nose until Juno. Iβm excited to see if it goes back to being completely black in the summer, as it is very pink right now. I do wish Henry and Juno could play together. I am sure Juno would love meeting him. xo
Aww, your nose is cute no matter what colour it is Juno <3.
Thank you Linus. You are so kind. <3