Why Is My Dog Sneezing So Much?

Have you noticed your dog sneezing more than usual? The occasional sneeze here and there is typically normal, but if it’s happening more frequently, you might be wondering what’s going on. In this guide, we’ll dive into why dogs sneeze and what you can do to help keep your furry friend feeling their best!

10 Possible Reasons Your Dog Keeps Sneezing

If your dog is sneezing a lot, it could be due to a variety of reasons, ranging from minor irritations to more serious health concerns. Let’s dive into ten possible causes.

1. Allergies

Allergies can be a common cause for excessive sneezing in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can develop allergic reactions to environmental triggers, causing irritation in their noses.

Some allergens that can cause sneezing in dogs include:

2. Reverse Sneezing

Reverse sneezing is a common yet harmless condition where a dog rapidly inhales air through their nose, producing a snorting or honking sound. While it may look and sound alarming, it’s actually just a reaction to irritation in their throat rather than a true sneeze.

These episodes usually resolve on their own within a few seconds to a minute and are generally nothing to worry about!

3. Upper Respiratory Infection

Respiratory infections are one of the most common causes of excessive sneezing in dogs. In addition to sneezing, dogs with a respiratory infection may also experience:

• Coughing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Fever (in more severe cases)

4. Nasal Mites

Nasal mites are tiny parasites that can invade a dog’s nasal passages, leading to frequent sneezing. It’s important to note that these mites are contagious and typically picked up from other dogs or contaminated environments. With nasal mites, sneezing is typically also accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal discharge or excessive nose rubbing.

If you suspect nasal mites, a vet can confirm the diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

5. Dental Issues

Different dental issues in dogs can sometimes lead to sneezing, especially when an infected tooth or abscess extends into the nasal passages. A dental issue may be causing your dog’s sneezing if it’s accompanied by:

• Bad breath
• Drooling
• Difficulty eating
• Muzzle swelling

6. Excitement

Some dogs sneeze when they’re excited, happy, or playing. This is completely normal and not a cause for concern. In fact, it can actually be a way for dogs to communicate that they’re having fun! You might notice your pup sneezing while playing with toys, interacting with other dogs, or even greeting you after time apart.

Pay attention to when the sneezing happens. If it mostly occurs during moments of excitement, it’s typically harmless and just part of your dog’s personality!

7. Grooming Products

Does your dog typically sneeze more after a bath, or did you just switch out some of their grooming products? While regularly grooming your dog is important, some dogs can be sensitive to the scents and ingredients in certain products, which can lead to increased sneezing. Possible culprits include:

• Scented shampoos or conditioners
• Flea and tick sprays with strong chemicals
• Perfumed grooming wipes

8. Foreign Objects

Dogs love to sniff their surroundings, which can sometimes lead to small particles getting stuck in their nose. A lodged object will trigger continuous sneezing as their body tries to expel it. This can be anything from dirt and grass to small seeds or bits of debris that get trapped in the nose, causing discomfort.

If you notice that sneezing persists, it might be a sign that the object is too big to dislodge on its own, so you may need professional help from a vet.

9. Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can sometimes form in dogs’ nasal passages, leading to increased sneezing and inflammation. These infections are typically more common in dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or in damper environments.

One of the most common fungal infections in dogs is aspergillosis, which is caused by inhaling fungal spores. A veterinarian can diagnose this condition and provide treatment if necessary.

10. Seasonal Changes

Changes in the season can also cause irritation in your pup’s nasal passage. Some common seasonal sneeze triggers include:

• Dry air during the winter, leading to nasal dryness
• Increased pollen in the spring and summer
• Dust buildup from indoor heating or AC use

How to Help: Remedies and Treatments for a Sneezing Dog

If your dog’s sneezing seems mild, occasional, or tied to specific situations, there are a few simple things you can try to reduce your pup’s nasal irritation, including:

• Removing allergens and irritants – Use an air purifier, keep your home dust-free, and avoid strong scents
• Keeping your dog hydrated – Make sure they always have fresh water, and consider using a humidifier to prevent dry nasal passages
• Using hypoallergenic products – Switch to unscented, hypoallergenic shampoos and wipes to minimize potential skin and nasal irritants
• Keeping your dog clean – Gently clean around their nose and ears with a damp cloth to remove any dust, pollen, or other irritants

When to Worry: Signs Your Dog’s Sneezing Warrants a Vet Visit

If your dog’s sneezing improves after making the above adjustments, it was likely triggered by something in their environment. However, if the sneezing continues or gets worse, it could be a sign of a more serious issue.

Watch for these symptoms, which may indicate the need for a vet visit to determine the underlying cause:

• Frequent or uncontrollable sneezing that doesn’t stop
• Nasal discharge that is thick, discolored, or contains blood
• Facial swelling or pain around the nose, eyes, or mouth
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or constant mouth breathing
• Loss of appetite or energy along with sneezing
• Sneezing that lasts for several days without improvement

You know your dog best! If something feels off, don’t wait! Schedule a vet visit to ensure they get the care they need.

Keep Your Pup Happy and Healthy with Pet Palace

Regular grooming is essential for your pet’s health and happiness! Since dust, dirt, and other irritants can sometimes trigger excessive sneezing, keeping your dog clean can make a big difference.

At Pet Palace, our expert groomers provide quality care with a variety of grooming packages tailored to your pet’s needs. Whether it’s a simple bath or a full spa treatment, we’ll help your furry friend look and feel their best!

Along with our pet grooming, we also offer cat and dog boarding, doggy day care, and dog training services in select locations.

Contact Pet Palace

Have more questions about your dog’s health or our grooming services? Our team is here to help! Get in touch with us today, as we look forward to assisting you and keeping your furry friend feeling their best.

Categories: All Posts, Dogs, Pet Safety