Nasal Mites – A Common Infection in Dogs

What Are Nasal Mites?

Nasal mites (Pneumonyssoides caninum) are tiny, barely visible parasites that live in a dog’s nasal passages and sinuses. While they do not infect humans or cats, they can be transmitted between dogs through direct contact, and more rarely, indirectly via contaminated objects like toys or training dummies.

There’s currently no solid evidence that certain breeds or the sex of a dog are more prone to infection. However, studies suggest that dogs under 3 years old and larger breeds may be slightly more susceptible. Nasal mites are found in many parts of the world.

In the autumn, especially during hunting season, owners may notice that their dogs struggle to follow scent trails. Sometimes, this may be the only symptom of nasal mite infection.

Signs and Symptoms of Nasal Mites

Many infected dogs show no obvious symptoms, while others may exhibit one or more of the following:

• Reverse sneezing (snorting or inward sneezing), often sudden but short-lived

• Clear nasal discharge

• Occasionally, blood-tinged nasal discharge

• Loss of sense of smell – dogs may fail to track scents they usually follow

• Itching or irritation in the nose

• Rarely, visible mites may appear at the nostrils—sometimes seen as tiny white specks (like half a grain of rice), especially during sleep or under anesthesia

Treatment for Nasal Mites

Nasal mites thrive in moist environments but quickly lose the ability to infect new hosts once outside the dog’s body. However, in humid conditions, there's a chance of indirect transmission via shared objects.

If infection is suspected, veterinarians typically recommend trial treatment, since confirming nasal mites through direct observation is difficult.

Treatment involves prescription antiparasitic medications. Your veterinarian can examine your dog and prescribe the appropriate remedy.

Important Notes on Treatment:

• In the first few days after treatment, symptoms may temporarily worsen due to inflammation caused by dying parasites.

• Multiple treatment rounds (usually 2–3, spaced about a week apart) are often necessary to eliminate all mites and newly hatched eggs.

• Some dogs respond quickly after the first dose, but completing the full course is usually recommended.

• All dogs in the same household or group should be treated—even those without symptoms—to prevent reinfection.

If your dog doesn’t fully recover after treatment, another condition might be the cause. Return to your vet for further evaluation.

Additional Advice for Dog Owners

• Prevention Tips:
  Although it’s hard to fully prevent nasal mites, limiting contact with unknown dogs or shared toys in public spaces can reduce risk. Clean shared equipment and toys regularly, especially in kennels or multi-dog homes.

• When to See a Vet:
  If your dog shows persistent nasal symptoms—especially reverse sneezing or a decline in scent-tracking ability—it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian. Early treatment improves outcomes and helps limit spread.

• Not a Dangerous Infection, But...
  Nasal mites aren’t usually life-threatening, but they can significantly affect a dog's comfort, behavior, and working ability (especially in hunting or scent dogs). Treatment typically leads to full recovery.

• Why It’s Often Missed:
  Since many dogs show mild or no symptoms, nasal mites are often mistaken for allergies or sinus infections. They’re frequently diagnosed only after other causes are ruled out or when dogs improve with antiparasitic treatment.

Did You Know?

• Reverse sneezing is not dangerous but can be alarming for owners. It sounds like rapid snorting and is often confused with choking or coughing.

• Because nasal mites are difficult to detect directly, diagnosis is often based on clinical signs and response to treatment. If your dog improves with antiparasitic medication, it’s a strong indication that mites were the cause.