What is Reverse Sneezing?

Reverse sneezing, also known as paroxysmal respiration, can occur in both dogs and cats—though it’s far more common in dogs. Unlike a typical sneeze, which expels air outward, reverse sneezing involves sudden, rapid inhalations that produce unsettling snorting or honking sounds. While it may look (and sound) alarming, it’s generally harmless and will resolve on its own. These episodes can be triggered by irritation or inflammation in the nasal passages, throat, or soft palate. Most fits pass quickly, but if your dog has frequent or severe episodes, it’s smart to check with a vet to rule out serious conditions like respiratory infections, collapsing trachea, or heart problems. If nothing major is found, your vet may just diagnose it with no specific cause. It is also important to learn how to distinguish reverse sneezing from coughing, as coughing may indicate kennel cough or an enlarged heart.

What are the Triggers?

There isn’t a single, specific cause for reverse sneezing, but plenty of factors can bring it on. Typically, a dog reverse sneezes to clear irritants in the soft palate or throat, much like how a regular sneeze clears nasal irritants. Allergies they can have to pollen and plants are common triggers, while nasal mites can also sometimes play a role (though it is not common in places like Sonoma County). Long-snouted dogs are more prone, but any dog can experience reverse sneezing, whether it’s an occasional episode or a chronic issue. Knowing what sets it off can help you manage these episodes and keep your dog more comfortable. Here are some of the most common triggers:

Allergens

Allergens such as pollen and dust can be a trigger by irritating and inflaming your dog's airway

Foreign Objects

Foreign objects like seeds, grass, foxtails, or even hair can be inhaled and trigger a reverse sneeze

Upper Respiratory Infection

Upper respiratory infections, often caused by viruses or bacteria, can result in nasal inflammation and irritation

Environmental Irritants

Perfumes, cleaning agents, smoke, or even sudden changes in temperature can irritate your dog's nasal passage

Eating or Drinking Too Fast

Gulping down food or water, especially cold water, can cause throat irritation and trigger episodes

Excitement or Stress

Playtime, vet visits, sudden bursts of energy, or meeting new people can be a trigger, especially in anxious dogs

Abnormalities

An elongated soft palate, masses, or other throat abnormalities can lead to more frequent episodes

Leash Pulling

Excessive pressure on the throat from leash pulling can irritate the airway and provoke an episode

What are the Symptoms?

Dog reverse sneezing can be mistaken for coughing, so it’s helpful to know what it looks and sounds like. In general, here are some common signs to watch for:

• Sudden, Rapid Inhalations: You might notice your dog taking quick, repeated breaths through their nose. This can seem almost like rapid or rhythmic breathing.
• Snorting or Honking Sounds: As they pull in air, dogs can make a distinctive snort, honk, or even a gasping noise.
• Extended Neck and Head: They’ll often stretch their neck and head forward, almost like they’re trying to straighten their airway.
• Bulging or Watering Eyes: The strain of pulling in air can make their eyes look bigger or a bit watery, irritants can also contribute to this symptom.
• Short, Intense Episodes: These bursts usually last only a few seconds to a minute before stopping on their own.

How to Help Your Pet

Reverse sneezing episodes typically resolve on their own, much like regular sneezes, so there’s little you need to do besides keeping your dog calm. If your pet seems distressed, soothe them with some gentle petting (avoiding the face and snout) and remember that most episodes last only a minute or so. If you’d like to try and shorten an episode or make it more comfortable, try these tricks:

• Stay Calm: Try and stay relaxed as it can help your dog remain calm, since pets often mirror our stress.
• Move to Fresh Air: Taking your dog to an area with clean air can help clear any irritants contributing to the episode.
• Blow Gently on Their Face: Blowing a bit of air near your dog’s nose may encourage swallowing, which can help stop the reverse sneezing.
• Massage the Throat: Lightly rubbing the throat area may help dislodge irritants and shorten the episode.
• Offer Comfort: Use a soft tone and gentle petting (away from their face) to reassure your dog until the episode passes.
  

If the episodes are frequent, lasts longer than normal, or severely stresses your dog, consult your vet to rule out other conditions. If it’s your dog’s first episode, a vet checkup is wise just to confirm it’s reverse sneezing rather than another issue. Once you know that’s all it is, you probably won’t need regular vet visits unless something changes or if symptoms worsen. Staying informed and aware will help you (and your dog) breathe easier so if you have any questions call us today!