Achoo! Is your dog suddenly sneezing? Dogs sneeze for many of the same reasons people do, from environmental irritants like dust and airborne allergens like pollen.
Other common culprits include unwelcome guests in your dog’s nostrils, like grass or foxtail burrs. But sneezing can also be a reflex—a natural way that some dogs express happiness while playing.
Play sneezing is harmless and nothing to worry about. Excessive, repetitive sneezing, however, may point to an underlying health concern. For example, sneezing may be a symptom of allergies, infections, canine flu, mites, and nasal tumours.
Below, learn how to tell the difference between different kinds of dog sneezes, and when it’s time to call your vet.
What Do Sneezes Mean For Dogs?
Paying attention to when and how often your dog sneezes can help you figure out what to do next.
Persistent sneezes may point to an infection or allergy. If your dog is sneezing, Dr. Sabrina Kong from WeLoveDoodles says it’s important to check for other symptoms, like:
- Lethargy
- Nasal discharge
- Blood in the nostrils
If your dog sneezes while playing and doesn’t have any other symptoms, you likely don’t need to worry, according to Dr. Kong. If you do notice any of these symptoms, you’ll want to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.
Sneezes are also more common in some breeds. Dr. Kong says breeds with shorter snouts, like Bulldogs and Pugs, may sneeze more due to their facial structure.
Your dog’s age can play a part, too. “Younger dogs might sneeze more from infectious causes, while older dogs could be affected by chronic conditions,” Dr. Kong says.
Why Do Dogs Sneeze While Playing?
“Sneezing during play is a reflex designed to clear the nasal passages,” explains Dr. Kathryn Dench, Chief Veterinary Advisor at Paw Origins.
She adds that sneezing during play can also be a form of communication. “It’s a fascinating aspect of canine behaviour that helps maintain peace during playtime,” Dr. Dench says.
Dog behaviour experts think these sneezes signify cooperation, deference, or an invitation to play. In this context, play sneezes help remind a dog’s playmate they’re having fun, not fighting.
How do you know your dog’s sneezes fall into this category? Dr. Dench says playful sneezing is usually short-lived and happens only during moments of excitement or play.
“If sneezing is frequent, accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, or occurs outside of playful contexts, it may be due to discomfort or irritation,” she adds.
Why Do Dogs Sneeze When They’re Being Tickled?
Some dogs also sneeze when they’re being tickled.
Dr. Kong says this can also be a reflex, similar to the way you might sneeze if something goes up your nose.
Sneezing isn’t the only response you might notice when you tickle your dog. “Responses to being tickled may include wiggling, pawing, or attempting to initiate play,” she said.
If you’ve found your dog’s ticklish spot, just keep in mind that it’s important to observe their body language to make sure they’re enjoying the interaction, according to Dr. Dench. Some dogs won’t enjoy a tickle fight!
Which Substances Can Make Dogs Sneeze?
If your dog’s sneezes don’t seem linked to playing or tickling, environmental irritants or allergens could be the cause.
“Dust, pollen, mould, and household chemicals are common irritants,” Dr. Dench says. Paying attention to when and where your dog sneezes, like certain rooms or locations, can help you find the specific cause.
“Cleaning regularly, using air purifiers, and avoiding smoking or using strong chemicals near pets can significantly reduce potential irritants,” she adds.
If your dog’s symptoms don’t improve, your vet may be able to offer more guidance.
Does Sneezing Mean A Dog Is Sick?
Occasionally, sneezing can mean something’s not quite right with your dog.
Dr. Dench notes that sneezing caused by an illness usually sticks around. Plus, your dog may also have other symptoms and less of an appetite.
On the other hand, sneezing due to allergies or irritants is usually occasional, without these additional symptoms, she says.
Reverse sneezing happens when a dog rapidly inhales air. This type of sneezing is loud and fast, but it’s usually harmless.
Dogs can reverse sneeze due to changes in their breathing patterns, environmental irritants, or overexcitement. Pressure on their airway from a collar that’s too tight, for example, may lead to reverse sneezing.
What illnesses cause sneezing?
Some illnesses that can cause persistent sneezing include:
- Nasal infections: Bacterial and fungal infections may cause sneezing, as well as nasal discharge, coughing, and a lack of appetite. Dogs with a nasal infection will need treatment from a vet, which may include antibiotics or other medication.
- Canine flu: This highly contagious illness is spread via airborne droplets, contact with an infected dog or contaminated surfaces. If your dog has canine flu, you’ll notice symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, runny eyes, difficulty breathing, and a fever. Usually, symptoms improve without treatment, but your vet can offer more specific guidance for your dog.
- Foreign matter: Occasionally, dogs get grass, sticks, foxtail burrs, or other irritants stuck in their nostrils. This can be extremely irritating and cause persistent sneezing. Dogs may also shake their heads, paw at their nose, or rub it on the ground. It’s important to have your vet remove the foreign matter right away.
- Nasal mites: These tiny bugs can be picked up when your dog digs or rubs their nose in the dirt. The irritation and inflammation they cause is often accompanied by frequent sneezing and a thick bloody nasal discharge. Nasal mites can also cause reverse sneezing and heavy, noisy breathing. Your vet will prescribe parasite medication and may also flush your dog’s nose to remove the mites.
- Nasal tumours: In very rare cases, persistent sneezes can be a sign of a nasal tumour. This is more common in older dogs. In addition to sneezing, symptoms include nasal discharge or blood from the nostrils, loud breathing, lethargy, and weight loss. Treatment may include radiation or chemotherapy.
How Can You Help A Sneezing Dog?
Dog sneezes can be alarming, even if they’re nothing to worry about. If your dog sneezes often, it’s best to make an appointment with your vet.
“Early intervention can prevent more serious issues,” Dr. Dench says.
Dr. Kong says it’s also important to note the context and any symptoms that accompany the sneezing. This information can help your vet figure out the cause and develop the most helpful treatment plan to keep your dog happy and healthy.
