Reverse Sneezing in Dogs
What’s That Snorting Sound? Understanding Reverse Sneezing in Dogs
If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’ve experienced that moment of alarm when your furry friend suddenly starts making rapid snorting noises. It might look like they’re struggling to breathe and, naturally, your first instinct is to worry. Relax—what you’re witnessing might just be reverse sneezing, a common (and generally harmless) occurrence in dogs.
Key Takeaways
- Reverse sneezing in dogs is a harmless reflex caused by irritation in the throat or nasal passages, often triggered by allergens, excitement, or irritants.
- Common signs include rapid snorting or honking noises, extended neck posture, wide eyes, and rapid inhalation.
- Most episodes resolve on their own, but frequent or prolonged episodes may require veterinary attention to rule out underlying issues.
- While reverse sneezing is usually harmless, related conditions can be costly—pet insurance through Pawlicy Advisor can help cover unexpected vet expenses.
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Reverse sneezing can surprise even seasoned pet parents, but the good news is that it’s typically not a cause for alarm. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about reverse sneezing in dogs, including its causes, symptoms, treatment, prevention tips, and when to consult your veterinarian. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to handle the next snorting episode with confidence.
✔️ Reviewed by multiple licensed veterinarians
✔️ Updated with the latest medical data
✔️ Compiled from veterinary research
What Is reverse sneezing in dogs?
Despite the name, reverse sneezing is not actually a sneeze in reverse—it’s more like a sudden, intense series of inhalations. Picture this: your dog stands still, extends their neck, and makes a rapid snorting or honking sound. It can seem dramatic, but reverse sneezing is usually a harmless reflex caused by irritation in your dog’s throat or soft palate.
Unlike regular sneezing, which is an outward burst of air, reverse sneezing involves a quick, forceful inhalation. It’s your dog’s way of clearing irritants or calming spasms in their upper airway. Think of it like a hiccup—awkward and slightly concerning in the moment, but generally no big deal.
This reflex can happen to any dog, though smaller breeds and brachycephalic dogs (those with short noses, like Pugs and Bulldogs) are more prone to it due to their unique anatomy. Episodes usually last a few seconds to a minute and stop on their own, leaving your dog completely unfazed and back to their normal, tail-wagging self.
So, while the sound might make you do a double take, reverse sneezing is just another one of those quirky things dogs do. In most cases, there’s no need for alarm.
Signs and symptoms of reverse sneezing in dogs
Not sure if your dog is experiencing reverse sneezing? It’s pretty distinct once you know what to look and listen for! The most common signs include:
- Snorting or honking noises: During an episode, your dog will make rapid, snorting sounds that can resemble a goose honking.
- Extended neck and stiff posture: Many dogs will stand still with their neck extended as if trying to “stretch out” their airway.
- Rapid inhalation: Your dog will take quick, forceful breaths in through their nose, almost like they’re sucking in air.
- Wide eyes: Some dogs may look startled or even a little panicked during an episode, but they’re usually fine.
It’s natural to feel concerned if you’ve never seen a reverse sneeze before but remember: these episodes are generally harmless and don’t cause any long-term issues. If you’re still unsure, don’t worry—we’ll cover when to call the vet in the next section!
What causes reverse sneezing in dogs?
So, what’s behind those sudden snorting fits? Reverse sneezing happens when something irritates your dog’s nasal passages or throat, triggering a reflex to clear it out. While these episodes might seem random, a few common culprits can set them off, such as:
- Allergens: Just like us, dogs can react to dust, pollen, or strong scents. A whiff of perfume or a dusty corner might be all it takes to start a snorting spree.
- Excitement or overstimulation: Ever notice your dog reverse sneezing after playing or getting super excited? Increased activity or a sudden burst of energy can sometimes be a trigger.
- Irritants: Things like smoke, cleaning sprays, or even grass blades can tickle your dog’s throat and cause an episode.
- Foreign particles: A bit of dirt, a tiny insect, or even food crumbs getting stuck in the back of the throat can lead to reverse sneezing as your dog tries to clear it out.
- Anatomy: Breeds with shorter snouts, like pugs or French bulldogs, are more prone to reverse sneezing due to the shape of their airways. Smaller dogs may also be more sensitive to irritants.
While these are the most common causes, it’s worth noting that sometimes reverse sneezing happens without a clear reason. If your pup has occasional episodes but otherwise seems healthy and happy, there’s usually no need to worry. On the flip side, if you notice frequent episodes or other symptoms, like coughing or nasal discharge, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet.
How to treat reverse sneezing in dogs
Most reverse sneezing episodes resolve on their own without treatment. That said, there are a few things you can do to help your pup feel more comfortable and potentially stop the sneezing sooner, such as:
- Encouraging your dog to swallow: Gently rub your dog’s throat or offer a small amount of water. Swallowing can help clear the irritation causing the reverse sneeze.
- Creating a calm environment: Dogs can pick up on our emotions, so staying calm can help them relax. Move your pup to a quiet area and speak to them in a soothing voice until the episode passes.
- Covering their nose: Lightly covering your dog’s nostrils for a second can encourage them to swallow or take a deeper breath, which might stop the sneezing.
If reverse sneezing happens frequently or seems to be bothering your dog, it’s time to check in with your vet. They can rule out more serious causes, like a foreign object stuck in your dog’s throat, respiratory infection, or other airway issues. For chronic cases, your vet might explore treatments such as:
- Medications: Antihistamines or anti-inflammatory drugs can help if allergies or inflammation are to blame.
- Foreign object removal: If something is lodged in your dog’s nasal passage or throat, your vet can safely remove it.
- Surgical options: In rare cases, dogs with an elongated soft palate may need a procedure to shorten it and reduce airway irritation.
Finally, it’s worth considering pet insurance. While reverse sneezing itself is typically harmless, related issues such as respiratory infections or surgeries can add up quickly. A good pet insurance plan can help cover common ailments, giving you peace of mind and saving you money on unexpected vet bills.
By knowing how to recognize, treat, and manage reverse sneezing, you’ll feel confident the next time your pup starts snorting. And remember, a quick call to your vet can always provide extra reassurance!
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Ricky Walther, DVM, is a small animal general practitioner in the greater Sacramento, California area. Realizing the positive financial and medical impact that pet insurance can provide for pet parents and the profession, he lends support and advice to companies like Pawlicy Advisor "The Pet Insurance Marketplace") that simplify the process of connecting with veterinary financing resources.
