Reverse Sneezing
It Looks Scary. Know What to Do.
WHAT YOU SEE
Your dog suddenly stops, stretches out their neck, pulls their lips back, and makes a series of loud, rapid snorting, honking, or gasping sounds.
It can look like your dog is choking or struggling to breathe.
During a reverse sneeze, your dog rapidly pulls air in through the nose rather than forcefully pushing air out, as they do with a normal sneeze.
Most episodes last only a few seconds to a minute, and your dog returns to normal afterward.
WHAT IT CAN MEAN
Reverse sneezing is caused by irritation or stimulation of the back of the nose or throat.
Common triggers include:
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Dust, pollen, or other airborne irritants
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Strong odors, perfumes, or cleaning products
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Excitement or sudden activity
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Eating or drinking
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Pulling against a collar
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Post-nasal drainage
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Irritation of the nose or throat
Some dogs experience occasional reverse sneezing without an obvious trigger.
It can occur in any dog, although dogs with shorter noses may experience it more frequently.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Stay calm. Your dog may look frightened, but most episodes stop on their own.
You can:
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Reassure your dog calmly.
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Allow the episode to pass without interfering.
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Once the episode has stopped and your dog is breathing normally, offer a small amount of water if your dog is willing to drink.
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If needed, gently massage the outside of your dog's throat to encourage swallowing.
Do not put your fingers down your dog's throat.
If your dog has occasional brief episodes and immediately returns to normal, there is usually no need to intervene.
💡 DR. DEBBIE'S TIP
Most episodes of reverse sneezing stop on their own within seconds to a minute. Stay calm and allow your dog to recover.
Sometimes, reverse sneezing is associated with allergies or irritation of the nasal passages. Antihistamines may help in some cases, but they are not effective for every cause of reverse sneezing. Frequent or recurring episodes should be evaluated by your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.
🩺 WHAT TO USE
Antihistamines
These medications may be helpful when allergies contribute to the symptoms, but they are not a treatment for every episode of reverse sneezing.
Before giving an antihistamine, consult your veterinarian about whether it is appropriate for your dog and which product and dose to use. Some human medications contain additional ingredients that can be dangerous to pets.
Antihistamines are included in the PetMD Essentials First Aid Kit for situations in which their use is appropriate. Always follow veterinary guidance and the product's instructions.
Remember: Difficulty breathing is not something to treat at home with an antihistamine. Seek emergency veterinary care if your dog is struggling to breathe.
WHEN SHOULD YOU WORRY?
Contact your veterinarian if:
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Episodes are becoming more frequent or lasting longer.
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Your dog has difficulty breathing between episodes.
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There is persistent coughing or nasal discharge.
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You notice blood coming from the nose.
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Your dog seems painful, weak, or unusually lethargic.
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Your dog is having difficulty swallowing.
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Episodes begin suddenly and continue to recur.
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Your dog does not return to normal afterward.
🚨 SEEK EMERGENCY CARE
Difficulty breathing is an emergency.
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog is struggling to breathe, has blue, gray, or very pale gums, collapses, or cannot move air normally.
If you suspect your dog is actually choking, do not assume it is a reverse sneeze.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Reverse sneezing can look much worse than it actually is.
A brief episode followed by a complete return to normal is usually not an emergency.
However, if the episode is different from your dog's usual reverse sneezing, is happening repeatedly, or your dog is having difficulty breathing, your veterinarian should evaluate the situation.
Antihistamines may help when allergies contribute to the symptoms, but they are not necessary or appropriate for every dog.
When in doubt, have your veterinarian take a look.
This information is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary examination, diagnosis, or treatment.