Reverse sneezing is a sudden episode of rapid, snorting inhalation through the nose, and while the sound is alarming, the episode itself is almost always harmless and brief.
The dog typically stands still, extends its neck, and makes a loud snorting sound for several seconds before the episode resolves on its own. This guide covers what reverse sneezing usually means, its possible causes, when it’s an emergency, and what to do.
What Does Reverse Sneezing Usually Mean?
Reverse sneezing happens when a dog’s soft palate spasms, causing rapid, forceful inhalation through the nose instead of the more familiar outward sneeze. It’s a reflex triggered by irritation in the nasal passages or throat rather than a sign of a serious respiratory problem in most cases. Episodes typically last from a few seconds to about a minute and resolve completely on their own, leaving the dog acting normal immediately afterward.
What Are the Possible Causes of Reverse Sneezing?
Nasal or throat irritation from dust, pollen, perfume, or other airborne irritants is among the most common triggers for an episode. Excitement, pulling against a leash or collar, and drinking or eating too quickly can also trigger reverse sneezing in some dogs. Brachycephalic breeds with shortened airways tend to experience reverse sneezing more frequently than breeds with longer snouts, simply due to their airway anatomy.
When Is Reverse Sneezing an Emergency?
Reverse sneezing itself is rarely an emergency, since a typical episode resolves within a minute without any lasting effect. An episode that doesn’t stop after a minute or two, or that’s accompanied by blue gums, collapse, or significant breathing difficulty, is unusual and warrants prompt veterinary attention. Frequent, recurring episodes that seem to be increasing over time are worth mentioning to a veterinarian even though no single episode is an emergency.
What Should You Do About Reverse Sneezing?
Staying calm during an episode and gently stroking the dog’s throat can sometimes help shorten the duration, since this encourages the dog to swallow and release the spasm. Covering the nostrils briefly for a second or two, or gently blowing on the dog’s face, is a technique some owners use to interrupt an episode, though it isn’t strictly necessary since episodes resolve on their own. A veterinarian should evaluate reverse sneezing that becomes notably more frequent or severe, since this can sometimes indicate a nasal irritant, polyp, or other underlying issue worth addressing.
What Else Do People Ask About Reverse Sneezing
Is reverse sneezing painful for a dog?
No, reverse sneezing looks alarming but isn’t considered painful, and most dogs act completely normal again immediately after an episode ends. The dramatic sound is more distressing to watch than it is uncomfortable for the dog experiencing it.
Do certain dog breeds experience reverse sneezing more often?
Yes, small breeds and brachycephalic breeds with shortened airways tend to experience reverse sneezing more frequently than other dogs, largely due to their airway anatomy. This doesn’t mean these breeds have anything medically wrong, just a greater tendency toward this particular reflex.
Is reverse sneezing related to allergies?
Yes, allergies and other sources of nasal or throat irritation are common triggers for reverse sneezing episodes in susceptible dogs. Identifying and reducing exposure to a specific irritant can sometimes reduce how often episodes occur.
Does reverse sneezing usually need veterinary treatment?
Occasional, brief episodes of reverse sneezing generally don’t need treatment, since they resolve on their own without lasting effects. A veterinarian may recommend further evaluation only when episodes become frequent, prolonged, or accompanied by other symptoms.
Related Guides
More guides on The Dogs Wiki cover related conditions.