Does your dog sneeze a lot? Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do. Most of the time, it’s simply because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials make their way into the nasal passages. Our canine pals use their noses to explore the world, after all. But what if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing?
Here are some of the most common reasons that your pup could be sneezing:
Play Sneezing
Did you know that our furry friends sometimes sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your dog is playing with you or with another canine, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s (rather adorable) way of showing his playmates that he’s being friendly, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up! And, needless to say, don’t try this with your own friends!
Allergies
Allergies are another common reason that dogs sneeze. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites, and dirt can give your pooch a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can also cause sneezing, so your dog could be reacting to a specific protein source or things like soy, wheat, or dairy in his diet.
If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, contact your vet. Allergy medication can help your pup feel better.
Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)
Brachycephalic dogs— which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier— are prone to breathing trouble. This is because of their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, gasping, snorting, and sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to help him comfortable.
Reverse Sneezing
In addition to normal sneezes, dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a pup snorts air into his nose quickly. The result sounds almost like a sneeze. This is most common in smaller dogs, such as Brachycephalic pups. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
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 pet clinic in Carlisle, ON for more information on your dog’s sneezing.
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