Trusted by more than 200 Snouts!

Safe in the sun, even with DLE.

Safe in the sun,
even with DLE.

Full UV protection for the nose and bridge. Stops licking, keeps treatments in place, and allows normal eating. Designed by a DLE dog parent.

Full nose and bridge UV protection. Stops licking, keeps treatments in place, and allows normal eating. Designed by a DLE dog parent.

Order SnoutCover

$40 + Shipping

Or download STL · Print it yourself

Download STL

DIY · Print it yourself

Trusted by more than 200 Snouts!

SnoutCover is designed specifically for:

SnoutCover is designed
specifically for:

DLE Support

Specially designed for dogs with DLE to prevent flare-ups.

Sun Protection

100% UV shield for light-pigmented or sensitive noses.

Ointment Shield

Keeps healing balms on the skin and out of their mouths.

Billie before using SnoutCover

Billie the pitbull with healed nose after using SnoutCover for DLE treatment

Billie using SnoutCover

Billie after using SnoutCover

What is SnoutCover?

SnoutCover is a breathable dog nose protection guard specifically designed for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE). This UV nose protector shields your dog's sensitive nose from harmful sun exposure while allowing them to eat, drink, and breathe comfortably. Unlike sunscreen balms that dogs lick off, SnoutCover provides physical protection for canine DLE, helping your dog's nose heal while preventing further UV damage.

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) is an autoimmune skin disease that affects a dog’s nose.
Also known as cutaneous lupus erythematosus, DLE causes the immune system to attack healthy cells on the nasal planum - the hairless part of the nose.

Billie before using SnoutCover
Billie using SnoutCover
Billie after using SnoutCover

Billie’s story

How SnoutCover was born

When Billie was diagnosed with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus, we struggled to find effective nose protection.

Dogs with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) need shade on the nasal planum and consistency with care.

Fabric shields didn't stay on, and she licked off sunscreen within minutes. After researching veterinary studies on UV protection for DLE dogs and consulting with our veterinarian, I designed SnoutCover - a flexible, breathable guard, trained her gradually with rewards, and kept a daily routine. SnoutCover adds a protective layer against sunlight during walks and helps reduce licking so ointments can do their job.

Within five months of consistent use combined with prescribed DLE medication, Billie's nose regained full pigmentation and the crusting resolved completely. SnoutCover became her daily companion for outdoor activities, providing the UV shield her healing nose needed.

I’m sharing this so others can help their dogs too.

If you have a 3D printer, you can download and make it yourself for free.

This site exists for those who prefer a ready‑made option.
A free option will always be available.

Full Story

Reddit Post

MakerWorld

HackerNews

Billie the pitbull with healed nose after biopsy surgery for DLE treatment

Billie after Biopsy

How SnoutCover provides dog nose protection?

SnoutCover provides two critical functions for managing canine Discoid Lupus:

UV Radiation Blocking

The flexible TPU shell helps shield your dog’s nose from harmful UV rays, offering consistent protection throughout outdoor activities — without the mess of sunscreen balms that dogs lick off.

Medication Retention

Dogs instinctively lick their noses, removing prescribed topical corticosteroids within seconds. SnoutCover prevents access to the treatment area, ensuring medications remain in place for proper absorption as recommended by veterinarians.

Buy or DIY

Choose the option that fits you. If you don’t have access to 3D printing, I’ll make and ship a SnoutCover for your dog.
Prefer DIY? Download the STL and print in TPU.

SnoutCover

$40 + shipping

SnoutCover(black standard color)

Quick‑release buckle strap kit (Assembled)

Ships worldwide

Buy Now

DIY

3d Print it yourself

Easy TPU Print

Minimal post-proccesing

Own your dimensions

Download STL

Bulk orders for rescues/shelters → contact for discount.

Sizes & fit

SnoutCover comes in three sizes.

If you’re unsure, don’t worry - after checkout I personally review your photos and measurements
and verify the best size for your pal.

Resources

Check our blog

Assembled SnoutCover showing correct strap connections and buckle placement

SnoutCover Assembly Guide

Assembly Instructions & Guide for DIY SnoutCover makers

Read more

Dog comfortably wearing SnoutCover showing correct strap placement and fit

Achieving the Perfect Fit

Step-by-step guide for fitting your SnoutCover dog nose protector, showing correct strap placement and fit.

Read more

How to Use Your SnoutCover

A guide for using SnoutCover, including sizing, adjustments, and tips to ensure safe, comfortable everyday use.

Read more

FAQ

Will my dog accept it?

Most dogs adapt with gradual, reward‑based training. Start indoors for short periods, reward calm, then extend and move outdoors.

Can my dog eat and drink with it?

Yes. It shields the top of the nose while leaving the mouth unobstructed.

Is this a muzzle?

No. SnoutCover shields the top of the nose only. Your dog can eat, drink, pant, and sniff normally.

Material & cleaning

Soft TPU shell. Wash with mild soap and water. Air‑dry fully before next use.

My dog’s nose is currently very raw and bleeding. Can I use this?

Proceed with caution. If your dog’s nose is extremely inflamed or has open wounds (severe DLE), even the most gentle contact might be painful. It would be best to firstly reduce the inflammation before training to wear SnoutCover.

Is the SnoutCover soft like a cushion?

No, it is "soft" in terms of flexibility, not cushioning. SnoutCover is made of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), a rubber-like plastic. Think of it as a "flexible shell" - it bends and moves with your dog's snout (unlike a hard plastic muzzle), but it does not have foam padding. Its purpose is to be a durable shield against UV rays and scratching.

Why does the surface feel textured?

Because SnoutCover is 3D printed, not mass-manufactured in a factory mold. The "layer lines" you feel are a normal part of the 3D printing process. This texture is generally well-tolerated by dogs, but it will not feel perfectly smooth like a store-bought toy. We inspect every unit to ensure there are no sharp edges, but a textured surface is standard.

How does SnoutCover specifically help dogs with DLE?

SnoutCover addresses the two main challenges in DLE management: blocking UV radiation that triggers inflammation, and preventing dogs from licking off topical medications. Studies show consistent UV protection is essential for canine Discoid Lupus recovery. With daily use plus prescribed medications, most dogs show improvement within 3-5 months.

What if it doesn't fit?

SnoutCover comes in two sizes, and I'll review your measurements and photos before production. If adjustments are needed post-delivery due to manufacturing issues, contact me.

Can my dog wear SnoutCover while playing or exercising?

Yes. The ventilated design allows normal breathing and panting during exercise. Dogs can run, play fetch, and enjoy all activities while wearing it. The quick-release buckle makes it easy to remove for water breaks.

Can I customize the color or strap?

Color is fixed to black (least distracting for dogs), and the strap kit is standardized for reliability. This keeps the design proven and safe.

How long did Billie's nose take to heal with SnoutCover?

Billie's nose showed significant improvement over five months of consistent daily SnoutCover use combined with veterinary-prescribed medications. Her nose regained full black pigmentation and all crusting resolved. Results vary by DLE severity, but UV protection is critical for any recovery timeline.

What dog breeds are affected by Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

DLE commonly affects Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Australian Shepherds. However, any breed can develop this autoimmune condition. The disease typically appears in dogs aged 5-7 years.

Do I need a prescription to buy SnoutCover?

No prescription required. However, DLE should always be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian. SnoutCover is designed to complement veterinary care, not replace it. Use alongside prescribed medications under your vet's supervision.

How is SnoutCover different from dog sunscreen?

Unlike sunscreen balms that dogs lick off within minutes, SnoutCover provides consistent physical UV blocking that stays in place all day. It also prevents licking of prescribed topical DLE medications, improving treatment effectiveness. Many owners including me use both: sunscreen under the guard for maximum protection.

Can dogs eat and drink with a nose guard?

Yes. A properly designed nose guard covers only the top of the nose, leaving the mouth completely free.

SnoutCover protects the nasal bridge and planum without covering nostrils or mouth
Dogs can eat kibble, drink water, and take treats normally
Panting and sniffing remain unrestricted
The vented design maintains airflow for comfortable breathing during activity

A nose guard is not a muzzle. It's targeted protection for the nose only.

How do I protect my dog's nose from the sun?

The most effective protection combines physical UV blocking with topical sunscreen, but the real challenge is keeping either one in place.

Dog-safe sunscreen works, but most dogs lick it off within seconds
Fabric nose covers exist, but dogs rub them off easily
Keeping dogs indoors reduces quality of life and isn't practical long-term
Physical nose guards like SnoutCover provide consistent UV blocking that stays put all day

The best approach is layering: apply sunscreen, then cover with a physical barrier so both can do their job.

What is the best nose protection for dogs?

A physical nose guard that blocks UV while allowing your dog to breathe, eat, and drink normally.

Sunscreen balms require constant reapplication and get licked off immediately
Fabric shields shift and get rubbed off against furniture or grass
Modified muzzles restrict breathing and aren't designed for nose protection
Purpose-built nose guards like SnoutCover offer consistent coverage without restricting normal activity

The best protection is one your dog will actually tolerate wearing. Comfort and fit matter as much as UV blocking.

Why does my dog lick off nose balm?

Dogs instinctively lick their noses to keep them moist. It's hardwired behavior you can't train away.

Licking is a natural reflex, not defiance or bad behavior
Medicated ointments and sunscreens taste unfamiliar, triggering more licking
Most topicals need 10-15 minutes of contact time to absorb. Licking removes them in seconds
The medication never reaches the skin layers where healing happens

The solution isn't stopping the licking. It's using a physical barrier like SnoutCover to block access until the treatment absorbs.

Trusted by more than 200 Snouts!

Safe in the sun, even with DLE.