Why won t my dog stop sneezing

Your dog could be sneezing for lots of different reasons but one of the most common reasons a dog sneezes is to get rid of something that is irritating their nose, like dust, aerosols or pollen (just like humans do). Sneezing could also be a sign that your dog has something stuck up their nose like a blade of grass, dirt or a leaf.

Other things that could be causing your dog to sneeze include allergies to airborne allergens or certain foods, nasal infections and nasal mites. Excessive sneezing can also be a sign of something serious like a tumour but this is more rare.

Sometimes dogs sneeze as a sign of excitement or playfulness. This “play sneeze” is another way your dog expresses themselves, just like wagging their tail or barking.

Occasional sneezing is normal but if your dog is sneezing excessively, violently or uncontrollably, or if they are showing any other symptoms like bleeding from their nose, expelling discharge, pawing at their nose or have a fever, you should contact a vet.

Remember, if you think your dog is having trouble breathing contact a vet right away. When your daytime vet is closed you can find your nearest Vets Now pet emergency clinic here.

If you’re unsure whether your dog needs veterinary treatment our vets can offer some advice via video chat. Find out more about our Video Vets Now service here.

Why won t my dog stop sneezing
Dog sneezing is common and often nothing to worry about but there are times when you should call a vet

While a persistent hacking cough is the most recognisable symptom of kennel cough, sneezing is also a possible symptom. Find out more about kennel cough here.

It depends really. If your dog sneezes once or twice but otherwise appears well then it’s unlikely to be anything to worry about. But you know your dog better than anyone and if you think they’re distressed or unwell then it’s worth seeking advice from a vet. There are times when sneezing could be a sign of something more serious or life-threatening, like breathing difficulties or something stuck up their nose, and this would definitely be a time to take action and call a vet.

If you see blood when your dog sneezes always get in touch with a vet. Sneezing blood can be a symptom of different things including injury, nasal mites and tumours. Whatever the issue, bleeding when sneezing isn’t something you should ignore. Contact your vet who will be able to diagnose the problem and start any necessary treatment.

Please never give your dog human medication or resort to home remedies if your dog is sneezing and has a runny nose. While we have the option to self medicate when we’re feeling unwell, it’s not the same for dogs. Many human medications are highly toxic to dogs and could have tragic consequences if your dog ingests them. Even if the medication isn’t toxic, there is still a real risk of accidentally giving your dog too much. Your vet will be able to advise you on any possible treatment for your dog’s symptoms so get in touch with them before giving your dog anything.

Why won t my dog stop sneezing
If you're concerned about your dog's sneezing it's always best to contact a vet for advice

If your dog sounds like they’re sneezing then, chances are, that’s what it is. But there are times when a dog’s sneeze isn’t really a sneeze. Sometimes dogs sneeze as a sign of excitement or playfulness. This “play sneeze” is another way your dog expresses themselves, just like wagging their tail or barking. Some dogs experience “reverse sneezing” which is irritation of the soft palate, throat, nose or sinuses. When dogs take a sharp intake of air it results in a snorting or sneezing sound. It looks scary to owners but it’s not usually harmful to dogs that don’t have underlying health issues. But if you’re concerned it’s always best to contact a vet for advice.

If you think the “sneezing” sounds could be a sign of abnormal breathing always contact a vet right away as any kind of breathing problems should be considered an emergency. If your vet is closed, find your nearest Vets Now pet emergency clinic here.

Some dogs “sneeze” as a sign that they want fun. In the same way that they wag their tail or show other physical signs of playfulness or excitement, this “play sneeze” reaction can be a signal to you that your pup thinks it’s playtime or they’re excited about something (like walkies).

Sneezing is a normal reflex so it’s impossible to prevent it completely. But things like vacuuming regularly and avoiding spraying aerosols like deodorant or hairspray in the same room as your dog can help minimise the chance of irritation. It’s also a good idea to regularly check your dog when they’ve been in long grass to make sure nothing has got stuck, like a grass seed or foxtail. Finally, regular check-ups at your vet will help pick up on any issues as quickly as possible.

You can’t stop your dog sneezing completely, just like you can’t stop yourself sneezing. If they sneeze a handful of times every now and again it’s most likely an entirely normal reaction to something that has irritated their nose. If it’s something in the air that is irritating their nose you could try opening the windows to ventilate the room or take them outside if that’s possible.

But, if the sneezing is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms like wheezing or bleeding the best thing you can do is get in touch with a vet and so any underlying issues to be treated.

If you would like some advice on dog sneezing you can book an online video chat with our vets here.

First Published 24th February 2021

Disclaimer

Vets Now assumes no liability for the content of this page. This advice is not a substitute for a proper consultation with a vet and is only intended as a guide. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment immediately if you are worried about your pet’s health — even if they are closed, they will always have an out-of-hours service available. Find out more about what to do in an emergency.

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 2

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 3

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 4

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 5

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 6

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 7

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing. 


Page 8

Does your dog sneeze a lot? Most often, Fido sneezes for the same reasons we do: because small particles of dust, dirt, grass, or other materials got into his nose. Our canine buddies do use their noses to explore the world, after all. But if your dog sneezes frequently, or won’t stop sneezing, there may be something more going on.


Here are some of the most common reasons that dogs sneeze:

Play Sneezing

Our furry pals often sneeze when they’re playing? Whether your pup is playing with another canine or with a human, you’ll probably see him sneeze a few times. Experts believe this is Fido’s rather adorable way of showing other dogs that his playful antics are good-natured, rather than threatening. Watch out for the play-sneeze the next time your pooch gets riled up!

Allergies

Pups also sneeze because of allergies. Environmental allergens are the usual culprit. Things like pollen, mold, dander, dust and dust mites can cause symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and—you guessed it—excessive sneezing. Food allergies can even cause sneezing! Fido could be reacting to a protein source, such as chicken, or other things, like soy or dairy, in his diet. 


If you think your dog might be suffering from allergies, call your vet. Allergy medication might be necessary for your pup to feel better.

Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic dogs, which are those pups with squashed faces and bulging eyes, like the Pekingese, French and English Bulldog, boxers, pugs, and the Boston terrier, also tend to be sneezy. These guys are prone to breathing trouble, thanks to their narrow nasal passages and unique airway structures. Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome include wheezing, snorting, and–you guessed it–sneezing. If you have a Brachycephalic dog, ask your vet what you can do to keep him comfortable.

Reverse Sneezing

Dogs also “reverse sneeze” on occasion. This happens when a dog snorts air into their nose quickly, which sounds almost like a sneeze. It can be alarming, but it’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. With most dogs, the biggest danger here would be if Fido were to bonk his head on something. It’s most common in smaller dogs, including Brachycephalic breeds.

Medical Issues

Medical problems, like kennel cough, respiratory infections, nasal mites, and much more, could cause Fido’s sneezing. If you can’t determine another cause of your dog’s behavior, set up an appointment with your vet clinic. 

Contact your local vet clinic for more information on your dog’s sneezing.