Does your dog sneeze sometimes? Fido is pretty adorable when he sneezes. Dogs sneeze for the same reasons people do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials make their way into their nasal passages. Your dog uses his nose to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be more going on. Here are a few reasons Fido could be sneezing.
P lay Sneezing
Did you know that most dogs sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your canine pal is playing with another canine or with a human, you may see them sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!
Allergies
Your canine companion could also be sneezing because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, dander, mold, dust and dust mites, and dirt can cause allergic reactions. This could give Fido a runny nose and/or watery eyes. As you probably guessed, it can also lead to excessive sneezing. Even food allergies can cause sneezing, so your pup could be reacting to a protein source or things like soy or dairy in his diet.
Talk to your vet if you think your dog might be suffering from allergies. Allergy medication might help your pup to feel better.
Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)
Brachycephalic dogs are those cute pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to help Fido stay comfortable.
Reverse Sneezing
In addition to normal sneezes, dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly. The result sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, unless Fido happens to bonk his head on something in the process. This is most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.
Medical Issues
Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could also be the root cause of Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine the cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic.
Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing.
