If your dog’s sneezing (or reverse sneezing) episodes are happening more frequently or if they are lasting for a longer duration, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. The episodes could be a symptom of an underlying issue such as allergies, an upper airway infection or foreign body, dental disease or a nasal tumor.
If you see any bloody or yellow discharge or other respiratory issues during a sneezing or a reverse sneezing episode, call your veterinarian right away since this can potentially be a serious issue.
Since reverse sneezing can be confused for other conditions, it’s important to note other changes that may indicate it’s time to contact your vet. These include sudden exercise intolerance or a blue-ish tinge to their gums.
It’s also a good idea to take a video of your dog sneezing along with any other symptoms you may want to describe (for example, if your dog has nasal discharge, what does it look like? Does it come from one or both nostrils?). It can be hard to relay verbally exactly how your dog is behaving and distinguishing the difference between a sneeze, cough, gag, or regurgitation can be tricky with dogs. Videos can be very helpful with diagnosing in this particular condition.
- If your dog is sneezing for longer and more frequently, or if there’s bloody or yellow discharge, contact your vet right away
- Take a video of your dog’s (reverse) sneezing episode to show the vet – this is the best way to show them what exactly is going on