What Is a Reverse Sneeze — And Should You Be Worried?
If you’ve ever seen your dog suddenly freeze, extend their neck, and make strange snorting or gasping sounds — you’re not alone. It’s called a reverse sneeze, and while it can look dramatic, it’s usually nothing to fear.
At Dogs On The Run, we’re here not just to care for your pets, but to help you understand them better. So let’s break it down:
What Exactly Is a Reverse Sneeze?
A reverse sneeze (also called inspiratory paroxysmal respiration) happens when a dog rapidly pulls air in through their nose, causing a loud snorting or honking sound. It's basically the opposite of a normal sneeze — and it often looks and sounds much scarier than it is.
Common signs include:
A series of sudden, rapid snorting or gagging sounds
Your dog freezes or stiffens, with their head and neck stretched forward
It may last anywhere from 5 to 30 seconds
It often stops as suddenly as it started.
What Causes It?
Reverse sneezes are usually triggered by minor irritation in the throat, sinuses, or soft palate. Common causes include:
Pulling on a leash or collar
Excitement or rapid breathing
Allergens like pollen, dust, or perfumes
A change in temperature or humidity
Mild throat irritation after eating or drinking
Certain dogs — especially small breeds, flat-faced pups (like Pugs or Frenchies), and older dogs — are more prone to reverse sneezing.
What Should You Do If It Happens?
First and foremost — stay calm. It may sound rough, but it’s rarely painful or dangerous for your pet.
Here’s what you can try:
Gently stroke your dog’s neck or throat to help them relax.
Lightly blow on their face — this can often interrupt the sneeze.
Remove any tension from the leash or collar if outdoors.
Let your dog settle. It usually resolves on its own in under 30 seconds.
When to Call Your Vet
While reverse sneezing is usually harmless, it’s a good idea to consult your vet if:
The episodes become freque+nt, prolonged, or violent
Your dog seems panicked or disoriented afterward
You notice nasal discharge, coughing, vomiting, or labored breathing
If it’s your first time witnessing this, you can always record a video and send it to your vet for peace of mind.
Reverse sneezing is a common, harmless quirk in dogs — but we know how unsettling it can be if you’ve never seen it before. The good news? Your dog probably isn’t in distress, and most cases require no treatment at all.
At Dogs On The Run, our professionals are trained to recognize and respond to moments just like this — helping your pet stay safe, and giving you peace of mind every step of the way.
Need Help Understanding Your Dog’s Behavior?
Let our concierge pet care team match you with a trusted, experienced professional who can help care for your pet — and keep you informed along the way.
📲 Connect with Dogs On The Run today for guidance, support, and reliable care you can count on.
Because we’re more than a service — we’re your partner in pet care.
