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Reverse Sneezing in Dogs

Reverse sneezing happens when a dog rapidly draws air in through their nose, producing a loud snorting or honking sound. It can look dramatic and worrying, but in most cases it is harmless.

Episodes are usually short lived and do not require treatment. However, if reverse sneezing begins suddenly, happens very frequently, or seems to affect your dog’s wellbeing, please speak to your vet.

What Does Reverse Sneezing Look Like?

During an episode, your dog will:

  • Stand still with their neck extended
  • Rapidly pull air in through their nose
  • Make a loud snorting or honking noise

It can appear as though they are choking or struggling to breathe, but most dogs remain bright and aware. Episodes typically last between 30 to 60 seconds and stop on their own.

What Causes Reverse Sneezing? The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a reflex that helps clear irritation from the back of the throat or nasal passages. Common triggers include: Pulling on the lead Excitement Dust or airborne particles Strong scents such as air fresheners Mucus build-up Allergies Eating or drinking Dogs with an elongated soft palate (the soft, fleshy part of the roof of the mouth near the throat is too long and hangs down too far, getting in the way of the airways) are more prone to reverse sneezing. This is especially common in flat faced breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pekingese and Shih Tzus. Small breed dogs in general seem more likely to experience reverse sneezing than larger breeds.

How to Help During an Episode

Most episodes resolve without intervention, so:

  • Stay calm and reassure your dog (if they seek it)
  • Speak softly and gently stroke them
  • Lightly massage the throat area (if it they are comfortable with you doing this)

Some owners find that briefly covering one nostril encourages the dog to swallow, which may help stop the episode. If you attempt this, do so gently and without causing distress.

When is Treatment Needed?

If reverse sneezing happens only occasionally and your dog is otherwise well, no treatment is usually required.

You should contact your vet if:

  • Episodes start suddenly and are frequent
  • They are becoming more severe
  • Your dog seems distressed
  • There are other signs such as nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy or reduced appetite

Your vet may examine your dog’s nose and throat. In persistent or severe cases, further investigation under anaesthetic may be advised. This can include imaging or a procedure called rhinoscopy, where a small camera is used to examine the nasal passages.

Because reverse sneezing rarely occurs during a consultation, so recording a short video at home can be very helpful for your vet.

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