Why is Dog Reverse Sneezing

A dog’s reverse sneeze is a reflex that clears the dog’s nose and throat of irritants.

Reverse sneezes are usually caused by allergies, a cold, or an upper respiratory infection.

Reverse sneezes can be triggered by excitement or eating too much.

Some people think that reverse sneezing is a sign of heart disease in dogs, but it’s not true.

A dog’s reverse sneeze is a reflex to clear their nose and throat of irritants. A dog’s reverse sneeze is usually caused by allergies, colds, or upper respiratory infections. Reverse sneezes can be triggered by excitement or eating too much and some people think that it’s also a sign of heart disease.

How do I get my dog to stop reverse sneezing?

What Should I Do If My Dog Reverse Sneezes? A common remedy is to hold the dog’s nostrils closed for a second and lightly massage its throat to calm him. Lightly blowing in his face may also help. This should cause the dog to swallow a couple of times, which will usually stop the spasm of the reverse sneeze.^[1]

Should I be worried if my dog is reverse sneezing?

While the occasional reverse sneeze is usually nothing to worry about, if it increases in frequency or becomes worse, it’s best to have your pet seen by your veterinarian. If not properly addressed, some respiratory illnesses can be contagious to other pets, become chronic or even be life-threatening.^[2]

When should I worry about reverse sneezing?

While the majority of episodes of reverse sneezing are nothing to worry about, they can be an indication of a serious health problem if the episodes become chronic, last over a minute, come in bouts where the dog stops and starts reverse sneezing for several minutes, or begin in a dog that has never previously suffered …^[3]

Can you cure reverse sneezing in dogs?

Can I stop my dog from reverse sneezing? Most of the time, no medical treatment is required for reverse sneezing. You may gently pet your dog’s neck or body to calm her during an episode. You can also try a home remedy of covering both nostrils for a few seconds and lightly blowing on your dog’s nose.^[4]

How do I know if my dog has nasal mites?

The most common signs associated with nasal mite infestation include bleeding from the nose, sneezing, “reverse sneezing” (sniffing air rapidly inward), impaired ability to pick up scents, facial itching, nasal discharge, labored breathing, head shaking, and high-pitched, noisy breathing.^[5]

Is kennel cough a reverse sneeze?

Signs of kennel cough include a dry cough or a “reverse sneeze.” A reverse sneeze sounds like a sniffling cough through the nose and signifies post-nasal drip or a tickle in the throat. Your dog may seem lethargic and have low energy or he may otherwise appear normal.^[6]

How long should reverse sneezing last?

During a reverse sneeze, the dog will make rapid and long inspirations, stand still, and extend his head and neck. A loud snorting sound is produced, which may sound like the dog has something caught in his nose or throat. A reverse sneezing episode can last for several seconds to a minute.^[7]

Can heartworms cause reverse sneezing?

Additionally, some dogs may seem like they are reverse sneezing when they are actually wheezing and trying to breathe. This happens most commonly in dogs who have congestive heart failure, heartworm disease, or collapsing trachea.^[8]

How common is reverse sneezing in dogs?

In fact, it’s fairly common among dogs (not as much among cats). Still, if this happens to your dog regularly, it is worth following up with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health conditions. Here is everything pet parents need to know about reverse sneezing in dogs.^[9]

Can I give my dog Benadryl for reverse sneezing?

Don’t Give Benadryl For Reverse Sneezing Benadryl will usually stop a reverse sneezing attack. But it just suppresses the symptom. It doesn’t cure the underlying cause of your dog’s reverse sneezing. Benadryl is easy to overdose and can cause serious side effects in your dog.^[10]

How can you tell the difference between a reverse sneeze and a collapsed trachea?

If your dog has a collapsing trachea, they will make a honking sound when they cough — this is not to be confused with the snorting sound of a reverse sneeze. Dogs that are reverse sneezing sound like they’re sneezing and inhaling at the same time.^[11]

What kills nasal mites in dogs?

Ivermectin is a drug that is effective against canine nasal mites. Oral or injectable Ivermectin is often used to treat the nasal mite infection.^[12]