Dog reverse sneezing – when should I see a vet?
Book a vet visitThis is not usually an emergency on its own – contact your vet if it lasts, gets worse or your dog seems unwell in any other way. It is nearly always harmless and often happens because something irritates the back of your dog's throat.
What you can do now
- Contact your vet if you are concerned.
- Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
- Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
- Let your dog rest somewhere calm.
Don't
- Do not give any human medicine.
- Do not wait if it gets worse.
What it can mean
It can be a response to irritation at the back of the throat.[1] Reverse sneezing is nearly always harmless.[1]
Other signs that can come with it
Possible causes
What the experts say
“Pulling on the lead ; Overexcitement ; Dust ; Air fresheners ; Excessive mucus ; Allergies ; Food or drink ; Pugs ; Bulldogs ; French Bulldogs ; Pekingese ; Shih Tzus”
Not sure how serious it is?
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Common questions
What is reverse sneezing?
It is when a dog rapidly sucks air through their nose, causing a loud snorting noise.[1]
Is reverse sneezing usually serious?
Reverse sneezing is nearly always harmless.[1]
What can trigger reverse sneezing?
Possible triggers include pulling on the lead, overexcitement, dust, air fresheners, excessive mucus, allergies, and food or drink.[1]
Sources
How this page was made: written with the help of AI from the sources below, then checked claim by claim against those sources. Urgency levels follow OkPaw’s fixed safety rules. It is guidance, not a diagnosis. How we write our pages
Runny Eyes
Tear Staining
Vomiting