Is Reverse Sneezing Normal for Dogs?

What Is Reverse Sneezing?

Reverse sneezing sounds alarming—dogs make loud snorting noises as they violently try to inhale air. This happens due to a temporary spasm in the larynx muscles, often triggered by a drop of mucus falling from the soft palate onto the vocal cords. The episode may repeat several times in succession but ends quickly, after which the dog appears completely normal.

This condition is more common in brachycephalic breeds (short-faced dogs), such as Shih Tzus, Corgis, and Beagles. While it can be startling to owners, it is generally not a sign of serious illness.

Common Triggers of Reverse Sneezing

Reverse sneezing episodes are often set off by excitement—such as greeting a person or another dog—or by eating too quickly. Other triggers include exposure to irritants like perfumes, cigarette smoke, scented candles, or new cleaning agents. In some cases, a sudden bout of sneezing or head shaking may suggest a foreign object in the nose, but this is different from reverse sneezing.

Dogs may also pause, hang their heads, and appear distressed during an episode, though they are not actually in danger. The condition is usually intermittent and can occur throughout a dog’s life without causing harm.

How to Help During an Episode

You can help stop a reverse sneezing episode by encouraging your dog to swallow. This can be done by gently massaging the front of the neck just under the jaw, or by briefly covering the dog’s nostrils to prompt swallowing. Blowing gently into the dog’s face or giving a quick squeeze on either side of the chest may also help relieve the spasm.

In most cases, these methods work quickly. If the episode does not stop or the dog collapses, it may indicate a foreign body in the larynx, and veterinary care is needed immediately.

When to Worry: Red Flags

While reverse sneezing is usually harmless, you should seek veterinary attention if your dog shows signs of ongoing respiratory distress. These include persistent noisy breathing, coughing, gagging, fainting, or collapsing episodes. Over time, severe breathing problems can strain the heart and worsen with heat, as panting can further narrow already tight airways.

If your dog has a history of severe respiratory issues, surgery may be recommended—such as placing prosthetic rings around the trachea—to improve airflow.

Differentiating from Serious Conditions

Reverse sneezing is not the same as laryngeal paralysis, a serious condition that affects older large breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. Laryngeal paralysis causes a “roaring” noise during inhalation, a weak or croaky bark, and labored breathing even at rest. It results from nerve damage and may be linked to hypothyroidism or trauma.

Unlike reverse sneezing, laryngeal paralysis is progressive and can lead to respiratory collapse. Diagnosis requires a laryngoscope to check if the vocal cords are paralyzed and stuck together.