Normally, your dog is healthy and energetic. Lately, you have noticed that sometimes your dog has trouble taking a breath or makes snorting sounds. It makes you worry.
However, reverse sneezing is harmless and happens quite often. But, sometimes, it gets worse. But this is not something you have to get scared of. It can be cured easily. Also, some precautions can stop your dog’s frequent sneezing.
In this blog, we will discuss reverse sneezing, what causes it, and how to cure it.
Understand The Reverse Sneezing
Paroxysmal respiration, or reverse sneezing, is when the dog rapidly pulls air in through the nose. That causes a loud snorting sound. Normally, there are no such differences between normal and reverse sneezing.
Regular sneezing is a reaction to clear nasal path, often due to irritants or allergies, while reverse sneezing is a throat spasm. That causes a noisy inhalation, often triggered due to excitement or irritants.
Reverse sneezing appears to be rapidly sucking the air into their nose. They often make snorting noises. It looks like they are choking or struggling to catch their breath. Such conditions can be harmless. It lasts only 30 to 60 seconds.
Why Do Dogs Reverse Sneeze?
There is no exact reason for reverse sneezing, but there are several reasons your dog might reverse sneezing. Some common criteria, like dust, pollens, or even smoke in the air, can cause your dog to reverse sneeze.
1. Allergies or Irritants
Dogs often reverse sneeze due to allergies, especially from pollen or dust. Just like human beings, dogs also have allergies that also result in reverse sneezing. Dogs can be allergic to various elements, such as food and items in their environment.
2. Presence of Bugs or Parasites
Sometimes, your dog can inhale tiny bugs that can lead to reverse sneezing. Worms, worm larvae, and nasal mites can irritate your dog’s nose. This irritation can make dogs reverse sneeze. They do this to clear their airways.
3. Nasal Inflammation or Infections
In dogs, a nasal infection is called rhinitis. It happens when the nasal lining becomes inflamed. This condition is usually caused by bacteria or fungi. Symptoms can include sneezing, nasal discharge, and reverse sneezing.
4. Trauma
Sometimes, injuries can leave your dog traumatized. Even after the wound heals, your dog may still suffer from reverse sneezing. That also shows that some injuries have the effect of leaving your dog traumatized.
5. Excitement or Exercise
Sometimes, out of joy, dogs reverse sneeze. This can happen when dogs get excited just to see you, when they get ready for a walk, or when you play with your dog. Many dogs reverse sneeze when their owners come home.
6. Structural Abnormalities
Some breeds sneeze more than other dogs. Pugs and bulldogs reverse sneeze more than normal dogs. They have longer soft palates. That can block airflow and lead to this behavior.
Also, chihuahuas have breathing problems more than other dogs. They can have tracheal collapse, which means their windpipe becomes weak and can fold in. This can cause coughing or reverse sneezing.
What Causes/Symptoms in Reverse Sneezing?
Normally, reverse sneezing is nothing to be feared of. It only lasts for less than one minute. There is no danger in this. Your dog only takes some time to clear the irritation. Sometimes, reverse sneezing can confuse you as coughing.
These symptoms will help you to identify the reverse sneeze:
Your dog will stand with its neck extended, its head tilted backward, and its elbows pointing outward. Their nostrils are usually flared, their mouths closed, and their lips pulled back.
If your dog sneezes turn out like this quite often, then you should waste no time to wait further. Contact your vet as soon as possible.
Is There a Treatment for Reverse Sneezing?
Sure, even a serious backward sneeze can be cured easily. Most of the backward sneezes only last for 30 to 60 seconds. In dogs, this happens quite often.
Your dog may experience a reverse sneeze episode. During that time you gently stroke your dog’s neck or head to try to calm him. Also you should notice what triggers them to reverse sneeze.
If your dog sneezes more, here are some steps you can follow:
- Don’t panic/remain Calm. Most sneezing is normal. That doesn’t harm your dog.
- If there are any other symptoms, such as coughing, nasal discharge, or difficulty breathing observe other symptoms.
- Look for dust, strong smells, or allergens in the air.
- Gently stroke their back to soothe or calm them.
- If sneezing doesn’t stop, go get your vet.
FAQs
Which Dogs are Typically Affected?
Reverse sneezing can affect dogs of any age. It can happen in both males & females. Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are more likely to have reverse sneezing because of their flat faces.
What Does the Reverse Sneezing Sounds Like?
Reverse sneezing sounds like quick snorts, almost like a honking noise.
What Should I Do If My Dog Sneezes?
Gently stroke your dog’s back to soothe or calm them. If the sneezing doesn’t stop, take your dog to the vet.
How Harmful is Reverse Sneezing?
Normally, reverse sneezing doesn’t concern any medicine or treatment. It is usually harmless if it happens only sometimes. It happens in dogs due to minor irritations like allergies or excitement.
Conclusion
Reverse sneezing in dogs is a common and harmless condition. It happens when a dog quickly inhales through the nose. It makes a snorting sound. This often occurs due to excitement, allergens, or sudden seasonal changes. During an episode, the dog may stand still and extend its neck.
Most of the time, reverse sneezing doesn’t need treatment. If reverse sneezing happens often, you should see a vet.
Keep your dog calm during these episodes. It can help reduce their stress and anxiety. It makes your dog less sneezing. Build a clean and calm environment for your furry friend. That way you can help your dog feel more comfortable and reduce these episodes.
