Nasal mites in dogs: everything you need to know

Canine nasal mites (Pneumonyssoides caninum) are microscopic parasites that inhabit dogs’ nasal passages and sinus cavities. Nasal mite infestation in dogs causes painful symptoms or infection when unaddressed. Recognizing warning signs as soon as possible is essential to rid your pup of pesky nasal mites.

Causes of nasal mites

Scientifically, we don’t know much about the life cycle of nasal mites or why dogs get them. Large dog breeds or those with large noses seem more at risk. Pneumonyssoides caninum Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources transfer from dog to dog, presumably through sniffing each other’s noses. If your dog exhibits symptoms and has recently been to the vet, a dog park, or a boarding facility, they may have nasal mites.

“Nasal mites aren’t very common, but they can be hard to diagnose, so some cases may be missed,” Dr. Schott says. “Nasal mites typically won’t cause coughing, so that can be a good way to distinguish between them and kennel cough.”

As the name suggests, nasal mites often affect the nose and nasal cavity. However, they can also affect other areas and bodily systems. Some general behavioral signs of a problem include increased restlessness, head shaking, and noisy breathing, but some signals are more specific. Here are some common warning signs of a nasal mite infestation.

• Sneezing. The occasional sneeze is common, but frequent sneezing in dogs often signals underlying issues. If you can rule out allergies or infections, nasal mites may be behind your pup’s sneezing. Mites can also lead to reverse sneezing, where irritation in the nose causes dogs to sniff rapidly.
• Nasal discharge. Excessive discharge of mucus or pus from your pup’s nose is a cause for concern. Chronic nasal discharge can be caused by irritation from nasal mites. However, it also may signal a bacterial or viral infection, so a vet visit may be necessary.
• Facial itching. Dogs scratch, rub, or paw at their faces for various reasons. If the itching is focused on the nose (as opposed to the eyes) canine nasal mites may be the cause.
• Nose bleeds. Nose bleeds, a.k.a epistaxis, aren’t normal in dogs and usually signal trouble. While you may not be able to detect them, microscopic mites could be responsible for your dog’s bloody nose.
• Loss of appetite. Irritants like nasal mites can have compounding effects on other parts of your dog’s body. Nasal mites are among the many canine ailments for which loss of appetite can be a symptom.
• Eyes tearing up. Excessive tearing most often signifies an eye condition or irritation. But, it can also manifest as a symptom of a canal nasal mite infestation.
• Bronchial cough. The lungs and nose work together in a dog’s respiratory system. Therefore, issues like excessive coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing can occur due to nasal mites.

Symptoms of mites can often mimic signs of more serious issues, like a nasal tumor. Therefore, a vet visit is a must if you’re unsure of the cause of the problem.

Vets may perform several tests before diagnosing a nasal mite infestation. First, blood and urine tests, X-rays, and CT scans can help to rule out more serious conditions, like respiratory disease. A more targeted approach often follows those broader bodily exams.

Nasal scoping, Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources also called rhinoscopy, allows veterinarians to use a flexible tube (endoscope) to observe inside the nasal cavity for the presence of mites. Following rhinoscopy, vets often perform nasal flushing with a saline solution. This can help to flush out existing mites and allow vets to test fluid for the presence of the parasites.

Once mites are detected, your veterinarian will decide on the best action plan. There’s no single approach to treating nasal mites, but antiparasitic medications are often effective in many cases. Among two commonly prescribed antiparasitic medicine options used to treat nasal mites are ivermectin (often given orally in tablet form), and topical application of selamectin Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources .

Unfortunately, treatment may not always eliminate symptoms associated with nasal mites. An infection may be present in these instances, and another vet visit may be necessary.

Since they’re difficult to detect, nasal mites can be tough to defend against. However, certain preventative measures can help keep your pup parasite-free.

First, it’s important to note that mites can be transmitted through direct or indirect exposure to an affected dog. Therefore, steer your pets clear of any dogs you know or suspect to be infested with mites. This includes unknown dogs like strays, who may have mites without you even knowing it.

When applied monthly, topical antiparasitic preventatives containing selamectin or imidacloprid/moxidectin, such as Advantage Multi, can also help prevent nasal mites.

👉 Some antiparasitic medications need a prescription from your vet, so always check with them first. They’ll prescribe or recommend the best preventative based on your pup’s age and health.