Have you ever seen your dog to a reverse sneeze? Known scientifically as pharyngeal gag reflux, it happens when your dog makes a sneezing gesture but inhales instead of exhales.
It can sound like a honking, almost! But why does this happen? Is it safe? Here are three bits of info to help you find out:
1. You Probably Couldn’t Guess The Specific Cause
There are so many potential causes for a reverse sneeze. It is typically due to the aggravation of the throat and soft palate. As long as there’s a potential irritant, like cleaners, scents, food, dust and more, reverse sneezes can happen anytime.
2. It’s Typically Harmless
It’s definitely scary to see your dog sneezing so weirdly, especially if it goes on for many minutes. But it’s okay! Your dog isn’t suffocating, and they’ll be okay once their need to inhale and sneeze dies down.
3. It Can Be A Sign Of Something More Serious
A reverse sneeze can also be a sign of an underlying issue. Respiratory problems, tumors, and a collapsed trachea are all potential causes for this less-than-favorable sneeze. If you have reason to suspect something is seriously wrong, bring your dog right to the vet!
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