https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/training-and-behavior/reverse-sneezing-in-dogs
Reverse sneezing is a condition in which a dog rapidly pulls air in through the nose, typically producing a snorting or honking sound.
Episodes usually last less than a minute and may involve visible signs such as neck extension.
Reverse sneezing can be triggered by various environmental irritants, including allergens, dust, perfumes, smoke, or pollen.
Other causes may include nasal mites, upper airway abnormalities, or in rare cases, nasal tumors.
While it is not generally harmful, distinguishing reverse sneezing from more serious issues like choking or coughing is important. If the behavior increases in frequency or is accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal discharge or breathing difficulties, a veterinary evaluation may be necessary.
Management typically involves ensuring a calm environment and addressing underlying irritants.
Tactics such as gently massaging the dog’s throat, briefly covering the nostrils to trigger swallowing, or moving the dog to an area with fresh air can help during episodes.
In some cases, veterinarians may prescribe medication if allergies or nasal mites are diagnosed.
For more serious causes like tumors or airway abnormalities, treatment may involve surgery or other medical interventions. Pet owners are advised to monitor symptoms closely, take videos for veterinary assessment, and consult a vet if reverse sneezing episodes become prolonged or more frequent.
Chewy editorial team examines the topic of reverse sneezing in dogs through a detailed breakdown of key areas, including what reverse sneezing is, which dog breeds may be more susceptible, the typical sounds and physical signs associated with it, common causes such as environmental irritants or nasal mites, and effective management techniques or when to consult a veterinarian for further evaluation.
An educational video accompanies the article is also provided to help pet parents recognize and respond to this condition more confidently.
