Puppies are curious explorers, sniffing and investigating their surroundings with boundless enthusiasm. But what happens when your new best friend starts sneezing—a lot? While the occasional sneeze is perfectly normal, excessive sneezing might leave you wondering if something more serious is going on.
Let’s explore the causes of sneezing in puppies, when to worry, and what you can do to keep your pup happy and healthy, including expert insights from Lemonade’ favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Why do dogs sneeze, and should I be worried?
Dogs sneeze, just like humans! Sneezing is a natural reflex that helps clear irritants from the dog’s nasal passages. Occasional sneezing is often harmless and may simply be a reaction to a tickle, dust, or even excitement.
Dr. Liff explains that most of the time, sneezing in puppies isn’t a sign of a health issue:
“Puppies explore the world with their noses, often sniffing into dusty corners, under furniture, or other debris-filled areas. This curiosity can irritate their noses, causing them to sneeze.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
However, if your puppy is experiencing frequent sneezing, sneezing fits, or additional symptoms like nasal discharge or swelling, it’s worth paying closer attention. These could indicate underlying issues that require veterinary care.
What are the most common causes of sneezing in puppies?
While sneezing is often harmless, it’s important to recognize the signs of what’s causing your pup’s sneezing.
Allergens and irritants
Puppies are highly sensitive to environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and mold. Household items such as air fresheners, perfumes, and cleaning products can also irritate their nasal cavity and lead to sneezing.
Signs of allergies often include sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. If you suspect allergies, try removing potential irritants and monitor your pup’s response.
Foreign objects
Puppies love to sniff everything, but sometimes they get more than they bargained for. A blade of grass, foxtail, or other foreign object can become lodged in your puppy’s nasal passages, causing discomfort and excessive sneezing.
If your puppy is pawing at their face or sneezing persistently, check for foreign debris. If the sneezing doesn’t stop, consult your vet. Dr. Liff explains that typical treatments performed by your vet for removing a foreign object from the nose can include a nasal flush, using a saline solution to rinse your pup’s nose, while your dog is under sedation.
Play sneezing
Believe it or not, “play sneezing” is a real thing! Puppies often sneeze during playtime as a way to signal that they’re having fun. This type of sneezing is harmless and usually ends once playtime is over.
Reverse sneezing
If your puppy suddenly starts making a honking or snorting sound, they might be experiencing reverse sneezing. Unlike regular sneezing, where air is expelled outwards, reverse sneezing involves rapid inhalations through the nose.
Reverse sneezing is often triggered by irritants, excitement, or inflammation in the airway, and while it can look alarming, it’s usually harmless. Gently petting or calming your puppy can help resolve the episode.
Respiratory infection
Sneezing can also be caused by a respiratory infection, such as kennel cough or a viral or bacterial illness. These infections may present with additional symptoms like coughing, lethargy, or fever.
Dr. Liff expresses the importance of checking the color and consistency of your pup’s mucus for more clues into the potential cause:
“If your puppy’s sneezing is accompanied by discharge that’s not clear, or if it’s more like phlegmy, colorful, or bloody, that’s atypical, and might indicate an infection or other health issue.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
What are some rarer causes of sneezing in puppies?
While sneezing is typically harmless, it can occasionally stem from rarer, more serious causes.
Nasal mites
Though rare, nasal mites are tiny parasites that can cause severe irritation. Dr. Liff advises that nasal mites are more common in rural areas, but usually aren’t a big issue for puppies living in cities or suburbs.
Puppies often pick up these pests from digging in dirt or playing with other dogs. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal swelling, and bloody nasal discharge.
Nasal tumors
While uncommon, nasal tumors can lead to persistent sneezing, often accompanied by a runny nose, bloody discharge, or swelling. Tumors can grow in the nasal cavity, obstructing airflow and causing discomfort.
If you notice these symptoms, take your puppy to the vet for diagnostic tests like imaging or biopsies. Early detection is key to managing this serious condition.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections in puppies may be uncommon, but they can occur and often require expensive treatment. Dr. Liff highlights some common culprits:
Aspergillosis
Histoplasmosis
Coccidioidomycosis (aka, Valley Fever)
“Fungal infections can be life-threatening and costly, with treatment expenses reaching tens of thousands of dollars. Puppies, with their curious nature, often get into mischief while exploring the world.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
Are certain dog breeds more prone to sneezing?
Yes, some dog breeds are naturally more prone to sneezing due to their behavior or physical traits. Dr. Liff notes that breeds known for their strong sense of smell—like Beagles, Hounds, and even Labrador Retrievers—tend to be the “nosy dogs” because they’re scent-driven dogs that really explore the world with their nose. These breeds are constantly using their noses to sniff and investigate, which might make them slightly more at risk for sneezing or nasal irritations.
Similarly, hunting breeds such as Pointers also fall into this category. Dr. Liff explains that these dogs, being bred for their tracking abilities, might be more likely to experience sneezing just from their everyday habits.
What home remedies can help with my puppy’s sneezing?
If your puppy’s sneezing is mild and doesn’t include concerning symptoms, you can try these home remedies:
Run a humidifier: Moist air can ease irritation in your puppy’s sinuses.
Keep it clean: Regularly clean your home for dust and other debris that can cause irritation.
Remove irritants: Avoid using strong sprays, scented candles, or other potential allergens in your home.
That said, avoid giving your puppy over-the-counter allergy medication or alternative medical treatments without consulting your vet first.
When should I take my puppy to the vet?
While occasional sneezing is normal, Dr. Liff advises that the following symptoms warrant a trip to the vet:
Nasal discharge that’s phlegmy, mucousy, colorful or bloody
Swelling, redness, or ulceration around the dog’s nose
Signs of pain, lethargy, or trouble breathing
Sneezing that doesn’t improve after a few days
Dr. Liff also warns that certain symptoms that accompany your dog’s sneezing could mean something more serious:
“If your puppy’s sneezing is accompanied by pawing at the face, discharge, swelling, or redness, it’s much more concerning, and they need to see a vet.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
Before we go…
Sneezing is often part of a puppy’s curious nature, but it’s important to know when it might signal a bigger issue. By understanding the possible causes of sneezing, you can take the right steps to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
And don’t forget—unexpected vet visits can be costly. With Lemonade’s pet insurance, you can help protect your puppy and your wallet. Get your quote today.
Yes, sudden weather changes, particularly shifts in humidity or temperature, can sometimes irritate a puppy’s nose. Dry air during winter or allergens in the spring might trigger sneezing. Keep your home environment comfortable, and use a humidifier if needed.
Can puppies sneeze because they’re teething?
Yes, teething can occasionally cause sneezing in puppies. The inflammation or discomfort in their gums can sometimes irritate nearby sinus areas, triggering sneezing. If this is the cause, it should subside as their teeth fully come in.
Could cleaning your puppy’s face stop sneezing?
Gently cleaning your puppy’s face, especially around their nose, can sometimes help reduce sneezing. Dirt, dust, or other small irritants could cause the sneezes, and a soft, damp cloth can safely remove them.
Is it normal for puppies to sneeze after a bath or grooming session?
It can be normal for some puppies to sneeze after grooming or a bath, especially if water or shampoo scents irritate their nose. To minimize this, use mild, puppy-safe products and dry their face thoroughly afterwards.
How can I tell if something is stuck up my dog’s nose?
If something is stuck in your dog’s nose, you might notice persistent sneezing, pawing at their face, or nasal discharge—sometimes with blood. They may also seem uncomfortable or make snorting sounds as they try to dislodge it. If these signs don’t improve quickly, it’s best to visit a vet to safely address the issue.
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