Why does my dog keep sneezing? Maybe he has allergies, an infection, or even something more serious like cancer. In order to determine the cause of your pet’s constant sneezing, it’s important to take note of the sneezing frequency, what kind of discharge accompanies the sneezing, and how your dog behaves before and after the sneezing fits occur. By taking note of these factors, you can get an idea of what’s going on in your dog’s nasal cavities and treat it appropriately.
If Your Pet Has Fleas
Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that are dark brown in color. They live off the blood of mammals and can jump from host to host. If your dog has fleas, you may notice them scratching excessively or biting at their skin. They may also have small, red bumps on their skin called papules. In severe cases, fleas can cause anemia due to blood loss. If you think your dog has fleas, taking them to the vet is the best course of action.
A Nose Infection
One of the most common causes of uncontrollable sneezing in dogs is a nose infection. If your pet is incessantly sneezing, especially if it is accompanied by a nasal discharge, seeking emergency veterinary care is warranted. The most common type of nose infection in dogs is called bacterial rhinitis, which is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the inside of the nose. Treatment for a nose infection typically includes antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address issues such as chronic sinusitis or other structural abnormalities that could be contributing to the problem.
Other Causes of Sneezing In Dogs
- Nasal foreign bodies are the most common cause of uncontrollable sneezing in dogs. These can be anything from grass seeds to pieces of dirt or food that get lodged in your pet’s nose. If you notice your dog sneezing more than usual, take a close look at their nose to see if you can spot anything lodged in there.
- Nasal mites are another possible cause of your dog’s sneezing fits. These tiny parasites live in the lining of the nose and can cause irritation and inflammation. If you suspect your dog has nasal mites, take them to the vet for treatment.
- A nasal tumor is a less common but more serious cause of sneezing in dogs. The telltale signs of this condition include enlargement and disfigurement of the external nose, as well as an increase in persistent sneezing episodes. Severe cases may also have trouble breathing through the affected nostril.
- Depending on what your pup was doing before they started sneezing, it could just be allergies! Seasonal allergies, such as those caused by pollen or dust, tend to make animals go into overdrive with their histamine production, leading to constant respiratory issues like coughing and sneezing. In order to help control these symptoms long-term (and not just during allergy season), it’s important that you provide your pet with a non-irritating environment free from irritants like dust and dander.
Signs That Something Is Wrong
If your dog is healthy, they might sneeze a few times when they first wake up in the morning to clear their nasal passages. However, if your dog is sneezing uncontrollably and/or has a discharge coming from their nose, this could be a sign that something is wrong.
Other signs that something may be wrong include if your dog is having trouble breathing, has lost their appetite, or seems lethargic. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to take them to the vet to get checked out. You can also give them some Benadryl to help relieve the symptoms while you’re waiting for an appointment time. A common cause of uncontrollable sneezing in dogs is allergic reactions, so keep an eye on how your pet reacts to new environments (new house, new bedding, etc.).
There are also nasal foreign bodies which can be removed by a veterinarian. A tumor could also cause excess mucus production and sneezing; however, this type of problem should not be left untreated for too long as cancerous tumors can quickly worsen.
How to Treat a Pet That’s Sneezing Excessively
If your dog is sneezing excessively, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any serious medical conditions. In the meantime, you can try to clear their nasal passages by gently flushing them with a saline solution. You can also try using a humidifier in their room to help ease any congestion. If your pet is still having trouble, please consult your veterinarian. They will want to do a thorough physical exam and examine some samples of mucus from your dog’s nose and throat. They may need to perform an X-ray or MRI scan as well.
Prevent Future Issues
To prevent your dog from incessantly sneezing, start by examining their environment. If you live in an area with a lot of pollen or other allergens, try to keep your dog inside as much as possible. If they must go outside, wipe their paws and face off when they come back in. You should also bathe them regularly to remove any irritants that may be clinging to their fur. If you suspect your dog is allergic to something in their food, talk to your veterinarian about switching to a hypoallergenic diet. Finally, make sure they are up-to-date on all their vaccinations, as some respiratory infections can cause sneezing.
Conclusion: Why Does My Dog Keep Sneezing?
If your dog is sneezing uncontrollably, it could be due to a foreign body in the nose, nasal mites, or a tumor. If your pet is also experiencing a nasal discharge, it’s best to seek emergency veterinary care. In the meantime, try to keep your dog calm and comfortable until you can get them to the vet.