Stop Reverse Sneezing in Dogs: What Causes It

If you’ve ever heard your dog emit a loud, sudden snorting sound, almost as if they’re inhaling sharply, you may have witnessed a bout of reverse sneezing. While this can seem alarming, reverse sneezing—formally known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration—is relatively common in dogs, particularly in smaller dogs and brachycephalic dog breeds such as Shih Tzus, French Bulldogs, and Pugs.

Unlike a regular sneeze, where air is expelled out of the nose, a reverse sneeze involves the rapid, forceful inhalation of air through the nose, producing a distinctive loud snorting noise.

In this article, we’ll explain what reverse sneezing is, its potential causes, and how to stop reverse sneezing in dogs during an episode.

What Is Reverse Sneezing?

A reverse sneeze is a spasm that occurs in the soft palate and the muscles at the back of the throat, causing the dog to inhale forcefully and make a loud snorting sound. This condition can be frightening for both the dog and its owner, especially for those who are witnessing it for the first time.

Unlike the regular sneeze, where a dog expels air outward, reverse sneezing happens when the dog forcefully pulls air inward, making it sound like a backward sneeze.

During an episode, your dog may stand still, extend its neck, and make honking sounds or loud snorts. These episodes of reverse sneezing are typically harmless and short-lived, though they can seem intense.

Brachycephalic dog breeds, which have flat faces and shortened skulls, are particularly prone to this condition due to their elongated soft palates. This anatomical feature makes breathing more difficult for them and increases the likelihood of reverse sneezing.

What Causes Reverse Sneezing?

There are several potential causes of dog reverse sneezes, ranging from environmental irritants to underlying health problems. Knowing the exact cause of a reverse sneeze can help you manage or stop reverse sneezing in dogs and prevent future episodes. Here are some common causes of reverse sneezing.

• Irritants in the Nasal Passages: Environmental allergens like pollen, dust, or dry air can irritate the nasal passages, triggering a bout of reverse sneezing. Foreign material like grass or small debris can also get stuck in the dog’s nose, leading to irritation and reverse sneezing.

• Nasal Mites: These parasites can invade the nasal passages, causing irritation, itching, and frequent episodes of reverse sneezing. Nasal mites may also cause nasal discharge and regular sneezing.

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: Infections in the upper airway, such as a respiratory infection, can contribute to reverse sneezing. Dogs with upper respiratory tract infections may also show other symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and nasal discharge.

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldogs and Shih Tzus are more prone to reverse sneezing due to their narrow nasal passages and elongated soft palate. These breeds may also experience other respiratory conditions, including tracheal collapse or heart disease, which can further complicate breathing.

• Allergies: Environmental allergens such as pollen, smoke, or dust can contribute to reverse sneezing. Dogs with allergies may need allergy tests to identify the underlying cause and to prevent future episodes.

• Excitement or Overexertion: Sometimes, reverse sneezing can be triggered by excitement, eating or drinking too quickly, or even pulling on the leash. This is especially common in smaller dogs with a strong prey drive, which is easily triggered during outdoor play.

• Nasal Tumors or Polyps: Although rare, nasal tumors or nasal polyps can obstruct the nasal cavity, making breathing more difficult and causing reverse sneezing. If your dog’s reverse sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms like nasal discharge or trouble breathing, a visit to the vet is essential to rule out serious problems.

How to Help Stop Reverse Sneezing in Dogs During Episode

While reverse sneezing may seem distressing for both dog and owner, the good news is that it is generally harmless and will resolve on its own. However, there are ways to help your dog during a reverse sneeze episode.

• Stay Calm: The most important thing to do is remain calm. Reverse sneezing is not painful for your dog, and it usually stops after a few seconds. Panicking can make your dog anxious and may prolong the episode.

• Massage the Throat: Gently massaging the back of your dog’s throat or rubbing their neck can help relax the muscles involved in the reverse sneezing. This can ease the muscle spasm and stop the episode.

• Cover the Dog’s Nostrils: Briefly covering your dog’s nostrils can force them to swallow, which may help to stop the reverse sneeze. Swallowing can help clear any foreign body or irritant that might be causing the episode.

• Offer Water: Giving your dog a small amount of water to drink can help soothe the dog’s throat and clear out irritants, which may stop the reverse sneezing.

• Change Environment: Sometimes taking your dog outside for fresh air or changing their environment can stop the dog’s reverse sneezing, especially if it was triggered by environmental allergens or dry air.

When to Seek Veterinary Attention

While most episodes of reverse sneezing are harmless and short-lived, there are instances where you should seek veterinary attention to rule out more serious underlying conditions.

• If your dog experiences frequent bouts of reverse sneezing.
• If reverse sneezing is accompanied by other respiratory symptoms such as nasal discharge, trouble breathing, or coughing.
• If you suspect a foreign body or foreign material may be causing the reverse sneezing.

Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests, X-rays, or allergy tests to determine the specific cause of the reverse sneezing. In more severe cases, further diagnostic tests may be required to check for nasal mites, upper respiratory tract infections, or even nasal tumors.

Final Thoughts on How to Stop Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

Reverse sneezing can be alarming for dog owners, but it is generally a harmless and temporary condition. For most dogs, reverse sneezing occurs occasionally and resolves on its own without any lasting effects. However, if you notice frequent or severe episodes of reverse sneezing, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems.

Understanding the exact cause of a reverse sneeze and knowing how to help your dog during an episode can give you peace of mind and ensure that your pet’s health remains a top priority. By taking steps to manage environmental triggers and addressing any underlying conditions, you can help your dog breathe easier and enjoy a healthy, happy life.

If you have concerns about your dog’s health, whether it’s reverse sneezing or other respiratory symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a vet. Your dog’s comfort and well-being are always worth the extra attention.