Loss of pigment in the nose (especially a dark nose becoming liver colored) is usually attributed to the use of plastic food or water bowls. If you already use metal or glass bowls, there are other considerations.
From here:
Diseases to be considered include benign conditions such as idiopathic (cause unknown) nasal pigmentation, or Dudley nose; seasonal hypopigmentation (“snow nose“waxing and waning pigment levels with change of seasons, less in winter and more i n summer); and loss of pigment after an inflammation.
Infections with parasites, fungi or bacteria can cause nasal disease. Injury, burns, hormonal changes and drug reactions can all affect the health and appearance of the nose. Allergy to food dishes (usually plastic), food and inhaled allergens can cause inflammatory lesions and loss of pigment. Excessive sun exposure can cause bleaching and burning of the nose, particularly in dogs that have reduced amounts of color and pigment in the nose to start with. Nutritional deficiencies can affect nose and coat color as well. Some cancers can also affect the nose.
Systemic and localized autoimmune diseases such as vitiligo and lupus-related disorders often involve the nose in affected dogs. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of the body, the attachments between cells or the pigment. Early identification in these cases may help to speed treatment and reduce irreversible internal damage.
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February 15th, 2009
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