Is This Normal? Finder · Breathing and coughing

My puppy makes a loud snorting honk. Is that reverse sneezing?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

Probably. Reverse sneezing is a loud, snorting honk where he pulls air in hard through his nose, often standing still with his neck stretched out. It looks alarming, but it's harmless, and an episode lasts from a few seconds to a minute. A short phone video helps your vet tell it apart from a cough.

Why it happens

Something tickles the back of the nose or throat, and instead of sneezing out, he pulls air in hard. It sounds dramatic and passes on its own.

Which door?

WATCHThat loud, snorty honk is harmless.
CALL TODAYIt's frequent, comes with a nosebleed or snot, or he looks upset between episodes.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYFrequent episodes, a nosebleed or snot, or he seems upset in between

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.