Reverse sneezing is a condition that some dogs experience, also known as paroxysmal respiration. During a reverse sneezing episode, the dog rapidly pulls air into the nose, making a loud snorting sound that can be alarming to witness. The dog will make rapid and long inspirations, stand still, and extend his head and neck. The exact cause of a reverse sneeze is unknown, but any irritation to the nose, sinuses, or back of the throat can trigger an episode of reverse sneezing. Irritants include nasal mites, secretions, foreign bodies such as seeds, pollens, grasses, allergies, smoke, odors, masses, or an elongated soft palate. Dogs with narrow nasal passages (long noses) seem more commonly affected.

Although it can be alarming to witness a dog having a reverse sneezing episode, it is not a harmful condition, and there are no ill effects. Most cases of reverse sneezing require no medical treatment. If your dog experiences a reverse sneezing episode, you may gently stroke the neck and try to calm him or cover the nostrils for a few seconds to make your dog swallow and clear out a possible irritant[...