Dog Reverse Sneeze

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A reverse sneeze in a dog, also known as paroxysmal respiration, can be a disconcerting sound for pet owners. It’s characterized by rapid and forceful inhalations through the nose, often accompanied by a snorting or honking noise. While it might sound alarming, in most cases, a reverse sneeze is a harmless and self-limiting episode.

What Causes a Reverse Sneeze?

The underlying mechanism of a reverse sneeze involves irritation or spasm of the pharynx and soft palate – the area at the back of the throat where the nasal passages and oral cavity meet. This irritation causes the dog to forcefully draw air in through the nose in an attempt to clear the airway. Several factors can trigger this response, including:

Allergens: Just like humans, dogs can be sensitive to pollen, dust mites, mold, and other airborne allergens, leading to irritation of the nasal passages.
Nasal Irritants: Strong odors, perfumes, cleaning products, smoke, and even certain foods can trigger a reverse sneeze.
Nasal Mites: Although less common, nasal mites can cause inflammation and irritation in the nasal passages, leading to sneezing and reverse sneezing.
Post-Nasal Drip: If your dog has a mild upper respiratory infection or allergies, post-nasal drip can irritate the back of the throat.
Excitement or Anxiety: Some dogs experience reverse sneezing when they get overly excited or anxious. The rapid breathing and panting associated with these emotional states can irritate the pharynx.
Leash Pressure: A collar or leash that puts pressure on the trachea (windpipe) can sometimes trigger a reverse sneeze.
Anatomical Factors: Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses and flat faces) like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are more prone to reverse sneezing due to their compressed nasal passages and elongated soft palates.
Foreign Objects: Occasionally, a small foreign object, such as a blade of grass, can become lodged in the nasal passages and cause irritation.

Recognizing a Reverse Sneeze

During a reverse sneeze, your dog will typically stand still with its elbows spread out and its head extended. You’ll hear rapid, noisy inhalations through the nose, often described as snorting, honking, or gasping. The episode usually lasts for a few seconds to a minute or two. Your dog might appear distressed or uncomfortable, but they are generally conscious and aware of their surroundings.

What to Do During a Reverse Sneeze

In most cases, you don’t need to do anything special during a reverse sneeze episode. It will usually resolve on its own. However, you can try the following to help your dog:

Stay Calm: Your anxiety can transfer to your dog, potentially prolonging the episode.
Gently Massage the Throat: A gentle massage of your dog’s throat may help to relax the muscles and stop the spasm.
Briefly Cover the Nostrils: Briefly covering your dog’s nostrils for a second or two can encourage them to swallow, which may help clear the irritation. Be careful not to completely obstruct their breathing.
Talk to Your Dog in a Soothing Voice: Reassurance can help your dog stay calm.

When to See a Vet

While occasional reverse sneezing is usually harmless, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian if:

The episodes become frequent or prolonged.
Your dog seems to be in significant distress.
The reverse sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms, such as nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or facial swelling.
The reverse sneezing started suddenly after your dog was playing outside, as it could indicate a foreign object lodged in the nasal passages.

Your vet can perform a thorough examination to rule out any underlying medical conditions and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary.