Reverse sneezing is a sudden, noisy inspiratory event where a dog pulls air rapidly through the nose, producing a honking or snorting sound that can look alarming. It happens when something irritates the soft palate or nasopharynx, causing a brief spasm. Common triggers include dust, pollen, perfumes, smoke, excitement, pulling on a collar, or abrupt temperature changes.

Episodes usually last seconds to a minute and resolve on their own. Brachycephalic breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs may experience reverse sneezing more often because of their shortened airways, though many dogs of other breeds do it occasionally as well.

Gently massaging the throat or briefly covering the nostrils can sometimes encourage a swallow that ends the episode, but avoid stressing the dog if they resist. If episodes become very frequent, prolonged, or are paired with nasal discharge, bleeding, facial swelling, collapse, or difficulty breathing at rest, seek veterinary care to rule out foreign material, infection, elongated soft palate issues, or other upper airway disease.

Most dogs live normal lives with occasional reverse sneezing. Document frequency and video an episode for your veterinarian if you are unsure.

This overview is educational and not a replacement for diagnosis when symptoms change or worsen.