Dog Sneezing A Lot? 7 Common Reasons And What To Do
Identifying everyday triggers can offer your companion real relief and peace.
Why Is My Dog Sneezing a Lot? Causes, Concerns & What to Do
Itâs not unusual for dogs to sneeze on occasion. Just like humans, canines may sneeze to clear out their noses or as a reaction to dust and mild irritants. But when sneezing becomes frequent or severe, it can be a worrying sign for pet owners. This article explores the reasons dogs sneeze, when sneezing indicates a health problem, and what you should do to help your furry companion.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Sneeze?
Occasional sneezing in dogs is generally not a cause for concern. Dogs often sneeze when playing, sniffing around in the grass, or after inhaling dust or other mild irritants. Sneezing can also serve as a form of canine communication during play. However, repeated, persistent, or forceful sneezingâespecially when accompanied by other symptomsâmay warrant veterinary attention.
Common Reasons for Dog Sneezing
Frequent sneezing can have a variety of causes in dogs. Below are the most common reasons:
- Allergies (Environmental, Seasonal, or Food)
- Infections (Viral, Bacterial, or Fungal)
- Nasal Mites and Parasites
- Foreign Bodies in the Nose
- Everyday Irritants (Dust, Perfumes, Smoke, Cleaning Chemicals)
- Dental Issues
- Reverse Sneezing
1. Allergies
Allergies are a leading cause of frequent sneezing in dogs. Like people, dogs can be allergic to substances in their environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or even certain foods.
- Environmental Allergies: Dust, mold, pollen, and other airborne particles commonly trigger allergic reactions. Dogs may sneeze more during pollen-heavy seasons, such as spring and autumn, and also display other symptoms:
- Watery eyes
- Itchy skin
- Redness or irritation
- Chewing or licking paws
- Recurring ear infections
- Food Allergies: Though less common, some dogs may develop sneezing or respiratory symptoms as a reaction to certain ingredients in their diets.
2. Infections (Viral, Bacterial, or Fungal)
Various respiratory infections can lead to sneezing in dogs.
- Canine Influenza (Dog Flu): Highly contagious virus leading to sneezing, runny nose, coughing, lethargy, decreased appetite, and sometimes fever. Untreated flu can progress to serious conditions like pneumonia .
- Kennel Cough: Caused by different viral and bacterial pathogens. Characterized by sneezing, a dry ‘honking’ cough, nasal discharge, and gagging .
- Bacterial/Fungal Rhinitis: Infection and inflammation of the nasal passages, which can result in frequent sneezing and sometimes thick or bloody discharge and foul odor .
3. Nasal Mites and Other Parasites
Nasal mites cause significant sneezing, often accompanied by nasal discharge, nosebleeds, reverse sneezing, head shaking, and facial rubbing. Dogs that frequently dig or sniff in soil are more prone to these parasites, and they must be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian. Diagnosis may involve nasal scoping or flushing under anesthesia .
4. Foreign Objects in the Nose
Dogs, especially those who love to sniff in the grass or dirt, sometimes inhale small objects, such as grass awns, seeds (e.g., foxtails), or pieces of toys. These can become lodged in the nasal passages, causing sudden sneezing fits. Signs of a foreign body include:
What others are reading
- Sudden onset of sneezing
- Unilateral (one-sided) nasal discharge, sometimes bloody
- Pawing or rubbing the nose
- Possible distress or attempts to sneeze out the object
5. Everyday Irritants
A number of harmless everyday substances can cause a dog to sneeze:
- Dust or pollen
- Cleaning chemicals
- Cigarette or cooking smoke
- Perfumes, aerosol sprays, or scented candles
- Powdery household substances
If sneezing subsides once your dog is away from the irritant, then the cause is likely non-serious.
6. Dental Issues
Dental disease can sometimes lead to sneezing in dogs. When the roots of upper teeth become infected, the infection can spread to the nasal passages through thin bone, causing inflammation and sneezing.
7. Reverse Sneezing
Reverse sneezing is technically not a sneeze but a spasm of the throat and soft palate. It often occurs in response to irritants, excitement, eating or drinking too quickly, or pulling on the leash. While alarming to witness, it is typically harmless and resolves on its own.
Is Dog Sneezing Ever Serious?
While most canine sneezing is not dangerous, there are times when it indicates an underlying illness or needs veterinary evaluation. Watch for these signs:
- Persistent, repetitive, or violent sneezing (especially if it started suddenly and doesn’t stop within a day)
- Discharge from the nostrils: Thick, yellow, green, or bloody mucus may point to infection or foreign objects
- Visible swelling on the face: Could suggest an abscess, infection, or serious allergic reaction
- Nosebleeds: Not always serious, but should be checked by a vet
- Breathing difficulties: Wheezing, labored breaths, or gasping require urgent care
- Other symptoms: Lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or coughing may suggest flu, pneumonia, or another infectious illness .
When to Call the Vet About Dog Sneezing
Contact your veterinarian if your dog:
- Sneezes frequently over more than a day or two
- Has discharge (especially if thick, colored, or bloody)
- Shows facial swelling or obvious discomfort
- Has a persistent cough or breathing trouble
- Becomes lethargic, refuses food, or develops a fever
If your dog is sneezing blood, struggles to breathe, or collapses, seek emergency veterinary help immediately, as these may indicate a life-threatening issue.
Diagnosing the Cause of Dog Sneezing
A veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam and may recommend several diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause:
| Diagnostic Tool | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| Physical Exam & History | Initial clues based on symptoms, exposures, nasal exam |
| Blood Tests | Infections, immune disorders |
| X-rays or CT Scans | Blockages, tumors, chronic nasal disease |
| Rhinoscopy (Nasal Scoping) | Foreign objects, nasal mites, tumors or polyps |
| Cytology/Cultures | Type of infection or parasite |
| Allergy Testing | Identify environmental/food allergies |
Treatment for Excessive Dog Sneezing
Treatment depends on the cause. Common strategies include:
- Allergy Management: Antihistamines, steroids, or changing the dogâs environment/diet to reduce allergens
- Antibiotics or Antifungals: Used for bacterial or fungal infections
- Removal of Foreign Bodies: Performed under sedation by a veterinarian
- Parasite Control: Medications or nasal flushing for mites
- Dental Care: Addressing tooth root abscesses, dental cleanings
- Supportive Care: Rest, hydration, and keeping the dog comfortable
What You Can Do at Home
- Minimize exposure to irritants: Avoid smoking, harsh cleaning chemicals, air fresheners, and strong perfumes indoors.
- Keep your home clean: Regular vacuuming and washing your dogâs bedding can help limit dust and allergens.
- Monitor your dogâs health: Track symptoms, changes in behavior, or worsening signs so you can inform your vet.
- Prompt veterinary visits: Donât try to treat persistent sneezing, infections, foreign bodies, or severe cases at home.
Preventing Sneezing and Nasal Issues in Dogs
- Keep dogs away from high-pollen areas during allergy season.
- Discourage sniffing in tall grass, dense shrubs, or areas with foxtails or burrs.
- Prevent access to chemicals or irritants, and use pet-friendly cleaning agents.
- Keep up with pediatric and routine vet visits, especially for social dogs.
- Practice good dental hygiene; brush your dogâs teeth with canine-safe toothpaste and get regular vet cleanings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I worry if my dog sneezes once or twice?
A: No, occasional sneezing is normal and usually harmless. Only frequent or forceful sneezing lasting more than a day or accompanied by other symptoms requires attention.
Q: What does it mean if my dog sneezes and has a runny nose?
A: Sneezing with clear nasal discharge may indicate mild irritation or early allergies, but thick, yellow, green, or bloody discharge suggests infection or a foreign object and warrants a vet visit.
Q: Can dogs get colds from humans?
A: Most human cold viruses cannot infect dogs, but dogs have their own respiratory viruses, like canine influenza and kennel cough, which are highly contagious among dogs.
Q: Is my dog just “reverse sneezing” or is it something serious?
A: Reverse sneezing is generally harmless and resolves quickly. If you notice prolonged sessions, severe distress, or other symptoms, consult your vet to rule out serious conditions.
Q: How do vets treat nasal mites in dogs?
A: Diagnosis usually involves nasal scoping or flushing under anesthesia. Treatment may require prescribed anti-parasitic medications and in some cases, antibiotics if a secondary infection exists.
Key Takeaways
- Sneezing is common in dogs, but persistent or severe sneezing can indicate allergies, infection, or serious health problems.
- Monitor for related symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, swelling, or bleeding.
- Contact your vet if in doubtâespecially with severe or sudden symptoms.
References
- Basepaws. Dog Sneezing a Lot? 9 Common Causes & When to Worry.
- Rover.com. Dog Sneezing: When to Be Concerned and What to Watch for.
- Nylabone. Why Do Dogs Sneeze?
- Canna-Pet. Why Does Your Dog Keep Sneezing?
References
- https://trudellanimalhealth.com/blogs/blog/canine-chronic-bronchitis-what-it-is-symptoms-to-look-for-and-how-to-treat-it
- https://basepaws.com/blog/dog-sneezing-a-lot
- https://www.nylabone.com/dog101/why-do-dogs-sneeze
- https://canna-pet.com/articles/why-is-your-dog-sneezing/
- https://www.rover.com/uk/blog/dog-sneezing-when-to-be-concerned-and-what-to-watch-for/
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