6 Reasons Why Your Pup Might Be Sneezing - Learn More Now!

Has your furry friend been sneezing lately? While it's not unusual for dogs to sneeze, excessive sneezing can be a cause for concern. Regardless of whether you're an experienced dog owner or a first-time pet parent, frequent sneezing can be worrying.

Check out the information below to find out what could be causing your dog to sneeze. Use this guide to help you decide whether it's necessary to take your pooch to the Lakeland Animal Clinic for a thorough checkup. If you're still unsure, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (863) 688-3338.

Your Dog's Seasonal Allergies

Seasonal allergies are a well-known factor in canine sneezes. If your pup sneezes more when they are outside, or the windows at your house are open, allergies may be the culprit.

In such cases, your dog may require allergy medication when pollen counts are high. Your vet can provide you with additional information on the best treatment.

Food Sensitivities

Food sensitivities are also a possible cause of sneezing. Although food allergies typically impact a dog's skin, coat, and digestion rather than their respiratory system, they can still trigger sneezing as a symptom. If your dog sneezes more often after meals, it may indicate an adverse reaction to specific ingredients.

To cope with food sensitivities, try introducing your dog to high-quality food with different protein sources. Go slowly to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach by changing their diet too quickly. Finding the appropriate food for your dog's specific sensitivities will take some patience and research.

Foreign Object Inhalation

When dogs inhale objects during their investigative sniffs, they may become lodged in their nasal passage. Although this is uncommon, it can occur, especially when dogs have recently explored small objects, such as broken toys.

If you suspect that your dog has inhaled a foreign object, take them to the emergency vet as soon as possible. They may have an obstruction in their airway or nasal passage. In any case, it's crucial to remove the object promptly and examine your dog for other symptoms.

Nasal Tumors

A nasal tumor can cause your dog to sneeze frequently and become increasingly worse over time. As the tumor grows, it's more likely to provoke sneezing and cause other respiratory issues, including wheezing, coughing, and a runny nose.

Your veterinarian will collaborate with you to determine the best way to proceed with a nasal tumor. Most times, the tumor can be extracted with surgery. Sometimes, chemotherapy or other therapies may also be necessary.

Oral Hygiene Issues

Dental problems can also cause sneezing, especially if they've been left untreated for an extended duration. Gum and mouth tumors, abscesses, decayed or damaged teeth, root infections, and other dental issues can all induce sneezing and a variety of other symptoms.

You may be able to spot visual signs of trouble in your dog's mouth, but it isn't always apparent. A dental exam, and possibly anesthesia, may be necessary to properly assess and treat your dog's dental problems.

Normal Dog Behavior

Finally, a common reason for sneezing in dogs is merely normal canine behavior. Dogs sneeze as a form of communication, much like humans talk. Dogs sneeze when happy, excited or showing submission to their peers or family. It's usually nothing to worry about if it happens occasionally.

If you notice your furry friend sneezing with excitement as you open the door or in anticipation of a walk, then it is nothing to fret about. Dog sneezing is a common occurrence and is a part and parcel of being a doggo.

Most of the reasons for dog sneezing are harmless, and a little sneeze here and there should not cause concern. However, if your dog is constantly sneezing with no relief for a few days, or the condition worsens over time, then it is best to take them to the vet urgently for a checkup.

Your veterinarian may conduct blood work or take X-rays to determine the underlying cause of the dog's sneezing. Based on the diagnosis, a suitable treatment plan will be devised. If you have any queries, please feel free to contact the Lakeland Animal Clinic on (863) 688-3338.