It’s that time of year again. Yesterday alone we saw several cases where an owner complained their dog was having some type of “breathing attack”… where they looked like they were gasping for air, snorting, and in distress. When any of us doctors try to imitate the episode ourselves (because of course the dogs never do it in the clinic because they would rather secretly laugh at our attempts to mimic them) we end up looking kind of silly. Figured it was time we posted some type of video clip and an explanation as to what this crazy type of spasm is.

Reverse sneezing, otherwise known as “inspiratory paroxysmal respiration“, is a phenomenon seen in dogs. It is characterized by rapid and repeated forced inhalation through the nose with accompanied snorting or gagging. Any breed dog can do it, but we especially see it in brachycephalic dogs (ones with the “punched in faces” such as pugs and bulldogs). We also see it commonly in Beagles, Dachshunds, Yorkshire Terriers, and Malteses. No one knows exactly why it happens,  but it’s believed that it may be due to nasal, pharyngeal, or sinus irritation (often associated with allergies).

The episodes can happen at any time, but most commonly occur during play, exercise, or mealtimes. While your dog may seem very distressed, reverse sneezing is not known to be harmful. Often just stroking the neck area and gently blowing on the face will stop most episodes. If they are occurring at a high frequency, the doctor may discuss the use of antihistamines or corticosteroids to help if an underlying allergy is suspected.

Check out the video clip of a Maltese reverse sneezing on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG5k9XVlh3c

See… your dog’s not alone! There are reverse sneezers everywhere! Maybe they should form a support group?

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