Awww…your doggy’s sweet little sneezes are probably the cutest thing you’ve ever heard. But when it turns into a sneeze-a-palooza (like your dog is sneezing A LOT) it just doesn’t sound healthy. So, when does sneezing become a real concern, and is it an emergency? Tissues, please. Let’s discuss.

COMMON REASONS FOR YOUR DOG’S SNEEZING

First, take it easy, sneezy. You don’t always have to be worried about your dog’s sneezing. Sometimes, it’s just how dogs clear their nose. Here are some everyday reasons:

1. Dust and pollen - Like humans, dogs can also be allergic to environmental allergens and irritants.

2. Smoke - Whether it’s from a cigarette or a fireplace, smoke can irritate little Nero’s nose.

3. Perfumes and sprays - Strong scents are common culprits that can cause bouts of sneezing.

4. Foreign material - Inhaling a blade of grass or other foreign material is more common than you think!

Remember, occasional sneezing is no biggie. But if the sneezing continues, and seems disruptive to your dog’s demeanor, it’s time to take a closer look.

Sometimes a sneeze is no reason for concern, but other times it can indicate an underlying health issue. Read on to understand when sneezing in dogs is an emergency.

REVERSE SNEEZING IN DOGS

Reverse sneezing is a common, dramatic-sounding respiratory reflex that can happen when the roof of a dog’s mouth becomes irritated. This irritation causes the soft palate muscles to spasm, resulting in a temporary narrowing of the trachea - making it difficult for the dog to fully inhale like normal. The dog then attempts to inhale through his nose, which results in a snorting or honking noise, and often results in a panicked owner! Luckily, although it can look and sound alarming, reverse sneezing in dogs is usually harmless.

Dog sneezing can be triggered by:  

• Inhaled irritants like dust, pollen, or grass

• Allergies 

• Objects in the throat 

• Pulling on the leash while attached to a collar

• Overexcitement

These episodes usually resolve on their own, but if you want to try to stop reverse sneezing at home, you can try these remedies: 

• Gently blow on your pup’s face, to make him swallow. 

• Lightly massage your dog’s throat. 

• Offer a treat or drink, to encourage swallowing.

• Switch to a harness while going for walks, instead of a collar.

Keep an eye on your pup - if the reverse sneezing continues, and seems disruptive to your dog’s demeanor, it’s time to call the vet. 

RED FLAGS: SIGNS THAT IT’S MORE THAN JUST A SNEEZE

Sneezing could be a sign of an underlying issue. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Discharge - The yuck has run amok. A runny nose with colored discharge could be a sign of infection.

2. Frequency - If it’s over 24 hours and the sneezing hasn’t stopped, it’s time to call VEG!

3. Coughing - Coughs can present all different ways, from a harumph to a hacking noise. When accompanied with sneezes, bring your bestie to VEG for an exam.

4. Wheezing - That airy, forced sound your dog is really struggling with? Yep, that’s wheezing, and it definitely needs medical attention. Wheezing in dogs can indicate a blockage, allergies, or other issues that need to be addressed immediately.

5. Change in behavior or energy - your dog’s a naturally peppy pup, but this coughing has got him feeling like a tired ol’ hound.

If you notice any of these signs, contact us, so we can check out if there are serious conditions at play.

Dogs and all pets receive prompt, compassionate care from VEG's vet staff. VEG is open 24/7 to diagnose your dog's sneezing and all emergency and urgent care health issues for pets.

WHAT TO DO ABOUT MY DOG’S SNEEZING

Your dog can’t tell you what’s wrong, so it’s up to you to observe and bring your bud in for vet help. Remember:

1. Don’t self-diagnose if your dog is excessively sneezing; call your vet!

2. Keep an eye on the symptoms: how often are they sneezing?

3. Call your local VEG for immediate guidance.

C’MON, GET YAPPY! VEG IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY

You want your furry friend back to their happy self real soon. So, if your dog is sneezing, especially if accompanied with other symptoms, call your nearest VEG location. We’re always open, even on holidays, and are ready to triage your pet immediately. You’ll stay with your pet the entire time, as we diagnose and treat your doggo’s unstoppable sneezes!