Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis, HNPK

HNPK isn't usually as upsetting to the dog as it is to the owner, but can be quite painful if the thickened flakes of skin are abruptly removed--so no picking.

This is often first recognized in juvenile dogs.

Clinical signs, genetic testing, and biopsy can be used to diagnose this condition.

This condition can be managed with softening soaks and gentle exfoliation.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s HNPK result so you can plan appropriate care and monitoring.

Keep your dog’s nose moisturized with a gentle, dog-safe balm to prevent cracking and irritation. Avoid harsh rubbing or wiping, as the skin is sensitive and can easily become sore.

If you notice bleeding, infection, or significant discomfort, contact your vet for further treatment options.

This mutation was first described in the Labrador Retriever.

Penetrance: This mutation has an autosomal recessive inheritance, meaning that dogs must have two copies of the mutation in order to show clinical signs.

Gene

SUV39H2

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Integument

Citations

1. Jagannathan et al 2013

• English Labrador Retriever
• Labrador Retriever