Reverse Sneezing
Your dog seems to be choking, snorts loudly, inhales rapidly through the nose. She stiffens and extends her neck. She’s at the mercy of these spasms. It’s startling. It can be alarming and upsetting.
Thankfully I was at a Corgi Picnic when I witnessed Dash’s first reverse sneeze. They told me it was “just a reverse sneeze” and advised me matter-of-factly to cover his nostrils…and it stopped.
In thirty years of living with dogs, I hadn’t witnessed reverse sneezing, so I did a little research. Of course, please ask your veterinarian if you have further questions.
Reverse sneezing is not a sneeze at all, but a spasm. An episode can last anywhere from a few seconds to two minutes.
Why do dogs have reverse sneezes? Some possible sources are:
- Irritants (like dust, pollens, household chemicals)
- Excitement or stress
- Eating or drinking
- Running
- Pulling against the leash
- Sinusitis or upper respiratory disorders
Smaller dogs may be more susceptible to reverse sneezing.
How to stop the attack:
- Gently pinch the dog’s nostrils shut, or cover them with your hand
- Gently massage the throat area
- Gently lift the dog with your arm under his belly
The good news…although it’s alarming:
- It’s generally not harmful
- Your dog will stop reverse sneezing without your help
- Your dog will return to normal once it stops
Please notify your veterinarian if:
- Reverse sneezing suddenly begins in a senior dog
- Episodes become more frequent or severe
- Your dog develops a cough or has nasal discharge
