Why Is My Dog Sneezing a Lot? What's Normal and When to Worry

Did you know that dogs sometimes sneeze when they're feeling happy or playful?

That's one example of harmless sneezing in dogs. But it's not the only time your canine can let out a powerful "Achoo!" Sneezing may also indicate serious health conditions, depending on which other symptoms accompany it.

Learn why dogs sneeze, signs that you should consult a vet and the best things to do at home for your dog's sneezing.

7 Reasons Why Dogs Sneeze

Here are the most common reasons dogs sneeze:

Allergies

"The most frequent reasons for abrupt, sudden sneezing may involve a foreign body or allergic reactions to environmental allergens," Dr. Paolo Silvestrini, DVM and associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, told Newsweek.

These small particles get into your pet's nose, irritate their nasal passages and cause them to sneeze.

You may notice your dog sneezing often in the spring and fall, as plants release more pollen into the air. Watch for allergy signs including paw licking, watery eyes and head shaking.

Seasonal allergies are not dangerous, but vets can offer treatment to make your pet more comfortable. You can also try giving your dog the appropriate Benadryl dosage to manage their allergies.

Irritants

Pollen is one irritant, but it is not the only reason your dog could be sneezing.

Dog's noses are more sensitive than ours. They can pick up irritants including:

• Candle smoke
• Smoke from wildfires
• Air fresheners or other scents
• Perfume
• Household cleaners

If you introduce a new substance or scent into your home, be mindful of how it affects your dog. Stop using substances that cause sneezing.

Play and Communication

Dogs sometimes sneeze while playing to defuse tension. They're telling other dogs and humans, "Hey, I'm just playing around!"

Researchers also found that some wild dogs sneeze to communicate. The African wild dogs in their study would sneeze to indicate that the pack should leave its current location.

This is normal, healthy behavior. If your dog sneezes while they're running around having fun and they don't show any other symptoms, you don't need to do anything.

Nasal Infection

Illnesses from bacteria, fungi and viruses can cause your dog to sneeze. Like how the common cold makes people sneeze.

Common dog diseases like kennel cough and canine influenza cause sneezing. Symptoms vary depending on what disease your dog has, but watch for:

• Coughing
• Running eyes and nose
• Swollen tonsils
• Changing sleep patterns
• Difficulty breathing
• Fever

Consult a vet if you notice one or more of these symptoms plus your dog sneezing. Some dog illnesses resolve within a few weeks. Others require treatment.

Nasal Mites

Nasal mites are tiny parasites that live inside dogs' nasal passageways. In addition to sneezing, they cause:

• Nasal bleeding
• Facial itching
• Difficulty breathing
• Runny nose
• Noisy breathing
• Reverse sneezing, where your dog inhales suddenly and rapidly

Nasal mites are very small and you can't detect them on your own. Take your dog to the vet if you suspect a nasal mite infestation. They can begin anti-parasitic treatment to cure your dog's sneezing and other symptoms.

Foreign Objects

Dogs seem to stick their noses everywhere, so you might not be surprised to learn they can get things stuck in their nasal passageways.

Grass seeds are by far the most common object that gets stuck in dogs' noses, according to a paper in the Journal of Small Animal Studies. Dogs can also inhale small rocks and pieces of fabric.

Sneezing is the main symptom of an object lodged in your dog's nose. Consult a vet if they start showing symptoms like:

• Red and watery eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Rubbing their face and nose

A vet can perform a rhinoscopy to identify and remove any foreign objects.

Dental Issues

Dental infections, rotten teeth and tumors can all impact the nasal cavity and cause sneezing.

Symptoms vary depending on what dental condition your dog has, but watch for:

• Red and swollen gums
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Bad breath
• Changes in eating habits
• Reluctance to pick things up with their mouth

If you notice these symptoms alongside sneezing, talk to your vet. Your dog may need anything from a simple dental cleaning to more serious treatment.

When Should You Worry About Your Dog Sneezing?

"A veterinary consultation and assessment are strongly advised when sneezing persists for over 24 hours, occurs very frequently and is coupled with other symptoms," Silvestrini says.

He recommends watching for other symptoms alongside the sneezing, including:

• Nasal or ocular discharge
• Bulging of the eyes
• Discomfort or pain upon touch
• Bleeding from the nostrils
• A noticeable mass in your dog's nasal passageways

If you see any of these in your dog, consult a vet immediately.

Dog Sneezing FAQ

People frequently ask these questions about their dog's sneezing:

What Home Remedies Can I Use for My Dog's Sneezing?

Vets sometimes recommend Benadryl for some sneezing causes, including allergies and airborne irritants. The recommended dosage is 0.9 to 1.8 milligrams per pound of your dog's weight.

However, if something else is causing your dog's sneezing, giving them Benadryl will not help and may have side effects like depression, drooling or hyperactivity. Consult with a vet before giving your dog Benadryl for their sneezing.

What Is Reverse Sneezing?

Reverse sneezing is when your dog rapidly sucks air in, instead of blowing it out. Dogs can make a snorting or honking sound when they reverse sneeze.

Occasional reverse sneezing is normal—especially in certain breeds. Consult a vet if your dog reverse sneezes frequently.

Do Certain Dog Breeds Sneeze More?

Brachycephalic, or flat-faced dogs, are more prone to reverse sneezing—sudden and rapid inhaling. That includes breeds like bulldogs, Boston terriers, chow chows and pugs.

A study of dogs in Spain also found that small dog breeds were more prone to reverse sneezing.

However, sneezing can indicate a serious health condition in your dog. If your dog sneezes frequently, don't just attribute it to their breed—talk to a vet.

How Do I Prevent My Dog from Sneezing?

"It is important to steer clear of allergens like smoke, perfumes, sprays, and dust in the dog's living environment," Silvestrini says. "Keep your pet calm and avoid excessive exercise, as it can raise blood pressure and potentially lead to more nosebleeds."

Dogs sneeze for many reasons, some harmless and others concerning. Talk to a vet if your dog ever sneezes alongside other signs they are unwell.