7 Unexpected Reasons Why Dogs Sneeze
Dogs are very different from humans and thus may sneeze for reasons that do not apply to human beings. Sneezing is part of the body’s defense mechanism.
The first thing you should note is that sneezing itself is a natural, protective reflex; it is the body’s way of getting rid of a potential foreign invader. It is an involuntary action, which means it cannot be prevented by human beings. If your dog sneezes, it is not that he feels sick but rather that his body is trying to defend him from a potentially harmful external agent.
Dog sneezing can be triggered by allergens, irritants and other agents.
Just like human beings, dog also sneeze due to irritants, allergens or other invisible external agents. They are a response from the dog’s body that their immune system is working to eliminate the agent. A dog, unlike a human being, cannot just go to a doctor when he is feeling unwell or sneezing; but a dog owner can help him in some ways.
#1. Dogs Sneeze When They Eat
Just about every dog owner has apprehensively noticed their dog sneezing after eating. This may be an unusual reason, but it is a common one for dogs to sneeze during meals. Dogs may sneeze when they eat due to allergies caused by the food or to irritation of the nostrils by dry and/or dusty kibbles .
When your pup eats, he or she tries inhaling air through its nostrils while chewing. This repeated act can irritate your dog’s nose causing them to bend over backward (literally) and consequently cause excessive sneezing from all the pressure put on their nasal passages.
A simple solution is to have your vet examine your dog’s teeth and gums to see if there is anything that needs to be addressed.
#2. Dogs Sneeze When They Are Excited
Dogs may sneeze when they are excited about something, such as a new person arriving or some squeaky toys being taken out of their storage container. This isn’t only limited to the canine species, though; cats are just as likely to have excessive dog sneezing too since they have much in common with dogs .
Now it doesn’t necessarily mean your pup will begin uncontrollably shaking like a human would (in fear) after seeing a snake – but it does involve an abnormal release of nervous energy which inevitably leads to intensified movements and reactions from both human beings and animals alike!
#3. Dogs Sneeze During Their “Adolescence”
If your pup begins sneezing and coughing with a persistent hacking noise, this can be an early sign of pneumonia which is common in young pups . Just as in human beings, dogs may experience the effects of growing pains during their adolescent years – especially if your dog has been eating a lot of food in preparation for its rapid growth spurt!
Dogs frequently suffer from allergic reactions during puberty which may explain why they are also more likely to develop allergies at later ages. To resolve dog is sneezing on a temporary basis, you can try switching foods or giving your pet some homemade chicken soup made with 4 cups of water and 1 cut up organic apple.
#4. Dogs Sneeze When They Are Stressed
Just like humans, dogs are also susceptible to the impacts of stress which can lead to dog sneezing. If your dog begins scratching a lot and shaking his or her head back and forth, it may be an indication that they have been exposed to some sort of annoyance such as loud noises or allergies .
Some veterinarians suggest that exposing your dog to calming music may help reduce these symptoms; while others believe exposure to natural light during midday hours is most effective for both human beings and animals alike!
CBD helps dogs with stress and anxiety. CBD is as safe for animals as it is humans, meaning your dog can benefit from CBD, too. CBD is a great and all-natural way to reduce your dog’s tress. At Duke’s Naturals, we have CBD Oil which may be particularly appealing to your dog.
#5. Dogs Sneeze When They Have A Cold Or Allergies
If you notice your dog beginning to sniffle more frequently than usual or have a runny nose and/or develop some crusty snot on the dog’s nose, this may be a sign that your pet is suffering from allergies or a cold . If your dog’s sniffles turn into coughing and sneezing fits, it can create more anxiety in both you and your pup which can lead to additional health problems.
Your dog may be starting to feel symptoms of one or many different types of allergy-related infections which can potentially lead to larger complications if not treated properly. In order to prevent these allergic reactions, it is highly recommended that you take your pet for regular checkups with the veterinarian as well as limit its exposure to possible allergens such as dust mites and pollen. You should also avoid giving your pup any unnecessary medications unless your vet has instructed so since many medications for humans are harmful to pets.
Nasal Mites may be found in the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses. Although infested dogs with nasal mites may present without clinical signs, sneezing. You should have your dog checked out by a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has nasal mites. Nasal mites prevalences as high as 24% have been reported in some dog populations. Nasal mites have been shown not to be a health hazard.
#6. Dogs Sneeze When They Have A Headache Or High Fever
Just as in human beings, dogs may experience headaches or high fevers from time to time which can lead them to sneeze. Be sure to keep an eye on your pup if you notice they are unusually lethargic and display signs of a high fever which may require immediate veterinary attention . If you determine it is necessary, ask your vet about medications to lower your pet’s fever.
#7. Dogs Sneeze When They Are Grumpy
If you have a dog that usually gets very excited when they see you and develops excessive sneezing but then become quiet and lowly – they may be expressing some signs of being grumpy. This is also another common reaction by animals when they are sick but it is generally a sign to pay extra attention to your pup’s behavior and activity levels.
Animals can sense when something is wrong with their health and will often act out due to the changes that are occurring within them. If you decide to take your dog to the vet, they will be able to determine whether your pet is grumpily sick or actually suffering from a serious issue.
A 2017 study found that African wild dogs use sneezes to make decisions in groups.
Check out Homeopathic Remedies For Dogs to stop the sneezing.
Your dog may also experience reverse sneezing.
What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?
Reverse sneezing, or a “backward sneeze,” can occur if a dog’s soft palate becomes irritated. The soft palate of a dog is the muscular area of the back of the roof of the mouth that assists with vocalization, swallowing, and breathing.
The irritation causes that soft palate muscle to spasm, which then narrows the trachea. The dog will extend their neck as they try to expand their chest to breath, but the narrowed trachea does not allow them to inhale a full breath of air.
The dog will then forcefully attempt to inhale through their nose, which causes the dog to reverse sneeze.
When a dog does reverse sneezing, it should not need medication or treatment. It is usually harmless unless it happens often.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article about Why Dogs Sneeze. You may also enjoy this article, How To Reduce Your Dog’s Anxiety.
