Despite common belief, nose temperature is not a good indicator of being sick or healthy. Normal dogs may have hot, cold, dry or wet noses. Body temperature is, however, an important indicator. A dog with severe rhinitis may have an elevated body temperature. If this is the case, the dog generally becomes lethargic and has a poor appetite.
Most cases remain confined to the nose and sinuses.
In these instances the risks are minimal. In addition, if the nasal discharge is one of many symptoms such as seen in canine distemper and hepatitis , the condition is extremely serious. Any dog suffering from a nasal infection should rest. In addition, the dog should be isolated from other pets so as to minimize the probable spread of contagious diseases. If the symptoms persist, the dog has a fever, or the rhinitis is accompanied by other symptoms, have your dog seen by a veterinarian.