This is a skin & connective tissue condition.
Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis
What is HNPK?
The epidermis (outermost skin layer) of the canine nasal planum (the exterior of the nose) is on average more than twice the thickness of haired skin in healthy dogs. Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK) is a localized condition of the nasal planum leading to crusts and fissures on the surface.
What are the signs & symptoms that develop in affected dogs?
Clinical signs range from mild to more severe lesions and may wax and wane during a dog’s life. The clinical symptoms of HNPK in Greyhounds are exclusively restricted to the outermost skin of the nose.
When do signs and symptoms develop?
Initial lesions may be visible in puppies. However, clinical signs typically become more apparent as dogs age.
How do vets diagnose this condition?
Veterinarians will typically diagnose this condition with a direct examination of the dog's nose and likely a tissue biopsy.
How is this condition treated?
Treatment options are mostly limited to the daily application of a topical moisturizer or other treatment to keep the nose moist.
What actions should I take if my dog is affected?
- Talk to your veterinarian about the best treatment option for your dog.
- More severe cases may require medical intervention, and secondary infections may occur. Be careful when cleaning the dog's nose.
