Reverse Sneezing in Dogs: What It Is and When to Worry

3 min read

If your dog has ever suddenly made a series of loud, snorting, or honking noises while standing still with their neck extended, you might have thought they were choking. Chances are, they were experiencing what’s known as reverse sneezing—a relatively common and usually harmless respiratory event in dogs.

While it can be alarming the first time you see it, reverse sneezing is typically not a cause for panic. In this post, we’ll break down what reverse sneezing is, why it happens, how to help your dog when it occurs, and when it’s worth a trip to the vet.

Why Dogs Reverse Sneeze

Reverse sneezing, medically called paroxysmal respiration, occurs when a dog rapidly inhales air through the nose, often due to irritation or inflammation in the nasal passages, throat, or sinuses. Instead of exhaling forcefully like a regular sneeze, the dog pulls air in—creating that distinctive snorting sound.

Common triggers include:

• Allergens – dust, pollen, perfumes, or cleaning products

• Irritants – strong odors, smoke, or aerosol sprays

• Excitement or exertion – especially in smaller breeds

• Temperature changes – sudden exposure to cold or hot air

• Foreign particles – tiny bits of grass, seeds, or dirt

  
  

Some breeds, particularly brachycephalic dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, are more prone to reverse sneezing due to their shorter nasal passages.

How to Tell It’s Reverse Sneezing—Not Something Serious

A reverse sneeze episode usually lasts from a few seconds to a minute, during which your dog may:

• Stand still with front legs braced

• Extend their head and neck

• Make repeated snorting or honking noises

• Appear slightly tense but remain conscious and responsive

  
  

The key difference between reverse sneezing and a choking or collapsed airway is that reverse sneezing ends abruptly, and your dog quickly returns to normal behavior without distress.

How to Help Your Dog During an Episode

Most reverse sneezing episodes resolve on their own, but you can help your dog feel more comfortable by:

1. Gently massaging the throat – This can help relax the muscles and stop the spasms.

2. Lightly covering the nostrils for a second or two – This encourages your dog to swallow, which may clear the irritation.

3. Calming them down – Speak softly and avoid sudden movements. Excitement can prolong the episode.

💡 Tip: Keep track of how often episodes happen. A pattern can help your veterinarian pinpoint triggers.

When to See the Vet

Reverse sneezing is typically harmless, but consult your veterinarian if you notice:

• Episodes lasting longer than a minute

• Reverse sneezing combined with coughing, wheezing, or nasal discharge

• Loss of appetite, lethargy, or difficulty breathing between episodes

• An increase in frequency with no clear trigger

  
  

These could signal underlying conditions like respiratory infections, nasal mites, polyps, or allergies that require medical attention.

Key Takeaways

🐶 Usually Harmless – Reverse sneezing is common and rarely dangerous.

📋 Identify Triggers – Tracking when it happens can help prevent future episodes.

🩺 Vet Check When Needed – Seek professional advice if symptoms change or worsen.

By understanding what’s happening and knowing how to respond, you can handle your dog’s reverse sneezing with confidence—and a lot less worry.