Dog Reverse Sneezing

A reverse sneezing episode can sound scary, but it is often harmless and short-lived in dogs. Learn what reverse sneezing looks like, what can trigger it, what you can do at home, and when it is time to call your vet.

Talk to a vet

When to Call a Vet

Emergency

Go to the ER now

● Your dog is having trouble breathing between episodes, is open-mouth breathing, or seems unable to get enough air.
● The episode does not stop within a minute or two, or repeated episodes happen back-to-back and your dog cannot recover normally.
● Your dog collapses, becomes weak, has blue, gray, or very pale gums, or seems distressed during or after the episode.
● You suspect your dog inhaled a foreign object, is choking, or pawing frantically at the face or mouth.
● Reverse sneezing is happening along with facial swelling, hives, or sudden severe swelling that could suggest an allergic reaction.

Urgent

See a vet within 24 hours

● This is the first time you have seen it and you are not sure whether it is reverse sneezing, coughing, gagging, or another breathing problem.
● Episodes are becoming more frequent, more intense, or are lasting longer than usual.
● Your dog also has nasal discharge, sneezing, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, or a feverish or unwell appearance.
● Your dog seems uncomfortable between episodes or has noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, or trouble sleeping comfortably.
● Your dog is a flat-faced breed or toy breed and you are concerned the sound may be from another airway problem such as tracheal collapse.

Monitor

Watch at home, call if it worsens

● The episode lasts less than a minute, your dog stays alert, and breathing returns to normal right away.
● Your dog seems completely normal before and after the episode and is otherwise eating, drinking, and acting like usual.
● Episodes are occasional and seem to happen after excitement, pulling on the leash, dust, perfume, or other mild irritants.
● There is no coughing, nasal discharge, collapse, weakness, or labored breathing.
● You can record a video for your vet in case episodes become more common or change over time.

Common Causes of Dog Reverse Sneezing

🌼

Irritants and allergies

Pollen, dust, smoke, strong odors, and other irritants can trigger spasms in the nose, sinuses, or throat. Mild allergy-related inflammation may make episodes more likely.

🎾

Excitement or pulling on the leash

Some dogs reverse sneeze after excitement, fast eating, drinking, or neck pressure from a collar. These episodes often stop quickly once the dog calms down.

🌾

Foreign material in the nose or throat

Grass awns, seeds, or other tiny particles can irritate the upper airway and trigger repeated snorting episodes. Persistent one-sided nasal signs should be checked by a vet.

🐶

Breed and airway shape

Small dogs and brachycephalic dogs may be more prone to reverse sneezing or other noisy breathing issues. An elongated soft palate or narrow passages can contribute in some dogs.

🦠

Upper airway disease

Nasal mites, infections, polyps, or other problems in the nose and throat can sometimes cause signs that look like reverse sneezing. If episodes are frequent or your dog seems sick, call your vet.

📣

Other conditions that sound similar

Collapsing trachea, coughing, gagging, and true breathing distress can be mistaken for reverse sneezing. A video of the episode can help your veterinarian tell the difference.

What to Do at Home

If your dog is having a brief reverse sneezing episode but is otherwise bright and breathing normally, the main goal is to stay calm and help them relax. Most episodes stop on their own within seconds to a minute. Home care should focus on reducing triggers and watching for any change that suggests a different airway problem.

Stay calm and keep your dog still and comfortable until the episode passes.
Gently stroke your dog’s neck or throat and speak softly to encourage relaxation and swallowing.
Offer a small amount of water or something safe to lick after the episode if your dog is calm and interested.
Move your dog away from smoke, perfume, sprays, dust, cleaning products, or other possible irritants.
Use a harness instead of a neck collar if leash pressure seems to trigger episodes.
Record a video and keep notes on how often it happens, how long it lasts, and any possible triggers to share with your vet.

🏠

Frequently asked questions

What does reverse sneezing look like in dogs?

A dog having a reverse sneezing episode will usually stand still, extend the head and neck, and make rapid inward snorting sounds as they pull air in through the nose. It can look dramatic, but many dogs are normal again right after the episode.

Is reverse sneezing in dogs dangerous?

Reverse sneezing is often not harmful when episodes are brief and your dog is normal before and after. You should call a vet right away if your dog has trouble breathing, collapses, has blue or pale gums, or if the episodes are prolonged or happen with other signs of illness.

Why does my dog keep reverse sneezing?

Repeated episodes can be triggered by irritation in the nose or throat from pollen, dust, smoke, odors, excitement, leash pressure, or less commonly by foreign material, nasal mites, or other upper airway problems. If episodes are frequent or changing, your vet can help rule out other causes.

How can I stop my dog's reverse sneezing episode?

Many episodes stop on their own. Keeping your dog calm, gently stroking the throat or neck, and encouraging swallowing may help. If your dog seems distressed, is not recovering normally, or you are unsure this is truly reverse sneezing, call your vet.

When should I take my dog to the vet for reverse sneezing?

Make a vet appointment if this is a new symptom, episodes are frequent, last longer than usual, or happen along with coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, reduced appetite, or noisy breathing between episodes. Seek emergency care if your dog seems unable to breathe normally.

Sources

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.

Still worried about your dog?

Get personalized advice from a licensed veterinarian.