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Why Do Dogs Sneeze a Lot?
If your dog is sneezing while acting playful, then there is nothing to worry about your bud. They generally use their entire body to communicate, from waving tails to sneezing and licking your face. If you are playing with your pup and watch them sneezing in the middle of the game, you must have thought “why is my dog sneezing so much?” Dog behaviour experts suggest that this might be an expression of utter excitement. Some dogs dramatically sneeze amid the game, it is most likely because the play session is really exciting for them.
If you watch your dog sneezing only during playtime, nothing to worry about then! But if you notice a trace of blood or sneezing them uninterruptedly, you must visit the vet as soon as possible.
What does it mean when a dog sneezes?
Like humans, dogs also sneeze when they catch a cold. As winter is the rough sinus season for us, so is for our four-legged friends. Especially because their immune system is not as much stronger as ours. There could be so many reasons behind the repeated sneezing of your dog. As a dog parent, I have to know first why my dog keeps sneezing?
1. Sneezing And Coughing
Dogs’ snoots are generally wet most of the time but first thing first! Watch closely if they are having a nasal discharge while sneezing. If ‘yes’ then your pup might be going through some serious underlying health conditions, such as canine influenza, several bacterial or fungal infections, respiratory parasites, or kennel cough. In such cases, consult with your vet.
2. Simultaneously sneezing and wheezing
Why is my dog sneezing and wheezing? If your pup is wheezing, along with sneezing, they might be having some serious trouble in respiration. It is a symptom that your dog might have a problem with its lungs, which needs to be examined further.
3. Snorting versus sneezing
Sometimes, differentiating between your dog’s sneezing and snorting is quite difficult. In simple terms, sneezing is an inside-out respiratory reaction to the expulsion of air. While snorting it inhales the air backward with a noticeable sound.
Snorting is very common in brachycephalic breeds. Common brachycephalic dogs such as pug, bulldog, boxer, and bullmastiff are more likely to snort than other dog breeds. These flat-faced dogs’ anatomical structure is responsible for it.
Because of the narrow nasal path, they face difficulties in smooth respiration. And it gets much more problematic when they get involved in physical activities. But apart from the brachycephalic breeds, it might be seen among the overweight dogs or the other facing any underlying biological circumstances.
Is your dog allergic?
Before brooding over why won’t my dog stop sneezing, I must know their allergy status. Similarly to us, many dogs have serious issues with dust particles, pollen, flea bite, or with some particular food items. All these could be the reason behind your pet’s continuous sneezing and coughing. But in addition, if you notice an extra itchy reaction on their entire body or in a particular spot or runny nose or eyes, then do not neglect the serious allergy issue. Consulting with your vet could help you identify the allergens and you can then design a proper management plan accordingly.
1. The reverse sneeze
The reverse sneeze is when your dog is inhaling with an abnormally loud accompanying sound just after sneezing. It is time to be alarmed. According to the American Kennel Club, a reverse sneeze is a reflex in the response to serious inflammation or irritation. Generally, reverse sneezing is harmless. If your dog is having a tough time with a reverse sneeze, you may gently massage their throats, it will trigger their swallowing reflex. Taking them out for some fresh air and light may also help them.
2. Is your dog honking?
Noticing your dog makes a honking sound, is a symptom of trouble. If you notice your dog having a lack of appetite, showing intolerance to active bodily exercise, and honking, take your pup to the vet right away. It might be having severe breathing problems and could be a symptom of tracheal collapse. Tracheal collapse is a common issue in small breed dogs but could be a serious problem for others as well.
3. Why does my dog keep sneezing?
If your dog is sneezing occasionally, then you may pat their heads and gently cuddle with them. If there is no serious issue, your dog will be fine after a couple of minutes. But if it does not stop his uncontrollable sneezing, then it might be a sign of flue or other canine viruses. If you suspect that your pup has the flu, call your vet as soon as possible. Because canine flu can develop into pneumonia and several other serious health conditions if not properly treated.
Like humans, flu is extremely contagious for dogs as well. For this reason, the AKC suggests you inform your vet prior about the suspecting flu condition, before taking your pet to visit. They maintain some protocols to ensure the minimizing of the spread.
Normally the flu takes two to three weeks to be cured if treated properly. However, the best advice is to keep your pet isolated for a month from other cats and dogs.
Similarly like us, dogs also catch a cold by common cold bacteria and viruses, which might cause them sneezing. According to the vets, most dog colds are not harmful generally and should be cured on their own. But the best way is to take no risk and talk to your vet. Especially, if the pup is very young or quite old or known to have a weak immune system.
5. Why is my dog sneezing blood?
Wait! Have you noticed a trace of blood in your dog’s cough? Unfortunately a “bless you” will not help them but do not be scared, they will be alright anytime soon. In most such cases, the main culprits are either sharp grass blades or food particulates which get stuck into their nasal channel. Dogs sniff everything and their noses are close to the ground most of the time. This is the reason they most likely develop issues with respiratory path.
Here are some home remedies:
To stop the nosebleed at home, first, keep your pup relaxed and calm. It will help reduce the blood pressure and also the flow of the blood in their nasal canal.
Put some ice on the nose bridge if they allow, and be gentle. Do not rub it.
Conclusive note
Though in most cases dog sneezing is harmless, still you should have a clear idea about different reasons for dogs’ sneezing. As a dog parent, you must know whether you should keep calm and play with your dog, or it’s just the right time to make a quick visit to the vet.
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