Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

Reverse sneezing in dogs is a phenomenon observed in our canine patners particularly in those with broad and short skulls. It is a fairly common respiratory event in dogs in Nigeria, but is rarely seen in cats.

Reverse sneezing, or a “backward sneeze,” can occur if a dog’s soft palate becomes irritated. The soft palate of a dog is the muscular area of the back of the roof of the mouth that assists with vocalization, swallowing, and breathing

During a reverse sneeze, the dog will make rapid and long inhalations, stand still, and extend its head and neck. A loud snorting sound is produced.

Reverse sneezing also commonly occurs while the dog is asleep or immediately following a long nap. The exact origin of a reverse sneeze is not known, however, any irritation in the back of the throat, such as dust, pollen, smoke, odor or other irritation, can produce a bout of reverse sneezing. Allergies, nasal mites, tumors, masses, or a foreign body – such as a foxtail – stuck in the airway, are other problems that can lead to increased reverse sneezing.

Although it can be alarming to witness a dog having a reverse sneezing episode, it is not a harmful condition and there are no ill effects. The dog is completely normal before and after the episode. A reverse sneezing episode can last for several seconds to a minute.

If you’re not sure if your dog is reverse sneezing or has another respiratory condition, it’s a good idea to see your veterinarian. There are treatment options available here in Nigeria. You may visit one of our outlets or contact us online to speak with a vet.

Causes of Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

In general, we see reverse sneezing more commonly in small breed dogs than large ones. Lots of things can irritate the throat and trigger the spasm. Common ones include:

• food or water (ie eating and drinking)
• getting really excited (and panting)
• exercise
• pulling on the lead
• air particles/irritants (eg pollens, dusts, perfumes, smoke, chemicals)
• allergies
• post-nasal drip
• inflammation (eg upper airway infections)
• a long soft palate that sometimes gets sucked back into the throat (especially in dogs with shorter snouts like Pugs, Frenchies, Shih tzus, Boxers)

Signs and Symptoms

A reverse sneeze looks and sounds like a combination between snorting and sneezing. It’s a noisy occurrence, which may happen several times in a row.

Symptoms during an episode include an extended neck, and the dog gasps with an alarming snorting sound. The elbows are often turned out and their eyes bulge as they have difficulty getting air into the lungs.

How is Reverse Sneeze in Dogs Treated?

Most cases of reverse sneezing require no medical treatment. If your dog experiences a reverse sneezing episode, you may gently stroke the neck and try to calm him. Once the dog exhales through the nose, the attack is usually over.

You can also lightly blow in your dog’s face in order to get him or her to swallow. Swallowing will typically stop reverse sneezing and the spasm that affects the nasopharynx.

It is very rare for dogs to develop any complications or suffer any risk during these attacks. Most episodes of reverse sneeze last less than a minute, although longer durations have been reported.

While most dogs do not require medication, you may need to consult a vet if the problem is serious, chronic, and allergy-related.