Nasal problems are a frequent reason for seeking veterinary
care. Sneezing that produces a nasal discharge or frank
hemorrhage must be evaluated to identify the underlying cause. A
variety of historical factors such as age of the dog,
vaccination status, the breed and the environment will influence
the likelihood of certain diseases. A mucopurulent nasal
discharge in a young, sick dog with a questionable vaccination
history requires exclusion of distemper. In sporting dogs with
an acute onset of violent sneezing, nasal foreign bodies
especially grass awns must be considered. Nasal fungal
infections with Aspergillus sp. occur most commonly in
dolichocephalic dogs that are under 5 years of age while nasal
tumors are more common in older dogs but can occur in dogs as
young as 18 months of age. Seasonal episodes of nasal discharge
suggest an allergic component. Most nasal conditions do not
produce lethargy or fever except for infectious diseases like
distemper and some cases of aspergillosis. Dogs with acute hemo