Animal noses?

Question

I know that dog's noses are supposed to always be wet, and that the dog is probably sick if it's not, but I have a few questions about it.

1. Why? Whay are dog noses wet, what makes them that way?

2. Is it all dogs that have wet noses (because my friend's dog doesn't have one)?

3. What about cats? Are they the same way, or not?

I would really appreciate it if anyone could answer one or more of my questions. Thanks

Answer 1

1.As you would wet your finger to tell which way the wind is coming from, so a dog can tell which direction the scent is emanating from, thereby enabling him to either hunt his prey or escape his predator. Because his nose is also his scenting organ they both work in partnership thus enabling him to hunt or escape to the best possible way. Cats have better eyesight so less wet area. Herbivores do not hunt so they have even less wet area.

2. Yes all dogs noses are usually wet.

3.Cats noses are supposed to be moist at all times, except during nap time. When they go to sleep, and even when they first wake up, there noses get dry.

Answer 2

Dogs have a very keen sense of smell and when their noses are wet, it enhances their ability. However, when their noses aren't wet, it doesn't necessarily mean they are sick. It usually means they haven't been active for a while. Cats have a better sense of smell than humans but they rely mainly on sight and hearing, which are their two most dominant senses.