Dog Asthma Attack or Reverse Sneezing: Causes and How to Prevent

Dog asthma attacks and reverse sneezing can be distressing for both dogs and their owners.

Asthma in dogs is typically caused by allergies, which can be triggered by environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold.

Some common signs of an asthma attack in dogs include coughing, wheezing, and rapid breathing.

Dogs can also experience reverse sneezing, which is characterized by a sudden, loud inhalation through the nose, often accompanied by a bluish tint to the gums and tongue.

Reverse sneezing can look alarming, but it's not a life-threatening condition and has no ill effects. Dr. Dawn Ruben says a reverse sneeze may look disturbing and many people fear that their dog is not breathing during these episodes.

A reverse sneeze is the protective repetitive inspiratory reflex, where air is violently pulled IN, unlike a normal sneeze which is a protective expiration reflex where air is expelled OUT. Dr. Karen Becker explains that a dog who is reverse sneezing typically stands still with his elbows spread apart, head extended or back, eyes bulging as he makes this loud snorting sound.

Episodes of reverse sneezing can last from a few seconds to a minute or two, and as soon as it passes, the dog breathes perfectly normally once again and behaves as if nothing happened.

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If your dog is experiencing a reverse sneeze, most of the time, they don't need any treatment. You can try gently massaging their throat to soothe the spasm.

However, if your dog's reverse sneezes are happening more frequently or are becoming chronic, it's a good idea to have them evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

In some cases, gently rubbing your dog's neck in a downward fashion can help interrupt the cycle of reverse sneezing. Offering a drink of fresh water can also help calm them down.

If your dog's symptoms linger, it's essential to have them checked by a veterinarian to rule out potential health issues, such as upper respiratory infections, heart disease, collapsed trachea, asthma, or brachycephalic syndrome.

Here are some possible causes of lingering symptoms that your veterinarian should check for:

If your dog is experiencing frequent or severe reverse sneezes, it's always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.