The Surprising Reasons Your Dog Might Be Sneezing
The reason for your dog sneezing can range from normal playful communication to allergies, dental disease, and even more serious conditions — so how do you know what's normal and when you should call your veterinarian?
Reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Hardoon
Join the Bark & Whiskers™ Family
Sign up today for our FREE newsletter, packed with expert advice and insider tips to keep your beloved pet in tip-top shape.
View our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- Sneezing in dogs isn't always a health problem — sometimes it's just normal dog communication, like playful sneezes during excitement, greetings, or rough housing
- Allergies are a common sneezing culprit in dogs, triggered by pollen, dust, food ingredients, or even household cleaners or air fresheners
- Foreign objects such as grass seeds, dirt, or toy fragments can become lodged in your dog's nose, causing sudden sneezing fits. Veterinary care is needed to safely remove the blockage
- Sneezing may also point to infections, nasal mites, dental disease, or even tumors. Watch for additional symptoms like coughing, runny nose, nose bleeds, bad breath, or facial swelling that signal bigger health issues
- Certain breeds, especially Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, sneeze more often due to compact facial structures. Persistent sneezing, bloody discharge, or breathing trouble should always prompt a veterinary checkup
If you've ever watched your dog let out an adorable little sneeze, you probably laughed or thought it was cute. But when those sneezes start happening more often, you may wonder — Should you be worried?
Just like humans, dogs sneeze for lots of reasons. Sometimes it's harmless and even part of normal dog behavior. Other times, it can signal something that needs medical attention. Knowing the difference can help you keep your furry friend stay healthy and comfortable.
Sneezing Can Be a Normal Dog Behavior
Before diving into medical issues, it's important to remember that sneezing isn't always bad. Dogs often use sneezing as a form of communication. For example, your pup might sneeze when excited about going for a walk, while greeting you at the door, or even during playtime with another dog. This "play sneeze" is a harmless way for dogs to show happiness, signal friendliness, or diffuse tension during roughhousing.1
Consider a group of dogs romping at the park. You might notice one dog bowing down, wagging its tail, and giving a little sneeze. That sneeze can be a signal that says, "I'm just playing — don't take me too seriously."
If you notice sneezes mostly during these joyful moments — and your dog seems healthy otherwise — this is usually nothing to worry about. Think of it as part of your dog's unique personality.
Sneezing Can Be Caused by Seasonal, Environmental, and Food-Related Allergies
Just like people, dogs can develop allergies that trigger sneezing. Seasonal allergies, for example, can occur due to pollen, grass, and mold spores. If your dog sneezes more in spring or fall, especially after being outside, seasonal allergies could be the reason. You may also notice watery eyes, coughing, itchy skin, or paw licking along with the sneezing.2
Alternatively, irritants such as dust mites, household cleaners, perfumes, or cigarette smoke may inflame your dog's nasal passages. Sneezing caused by these irritants often comes and goes, depending on where your dog spends time.3 For example, if sneezing flares up when you vacuum or burn a scented candle, your dog may be reacting to particles in the air.
As for food allergies, they usually affect the skin or digestive system; however, they can cause sneezing too. If your dog starts sneezing within a few hours of mealtime, certain ingredients may be the trigger.4 Switching to a limited-ingredient or novel protein diet can help, but always consult with your vet before making big food changes. Patience is key because it may take weeks of trial and error to find the right diet.
Foreign Objects in the Nose Also Trigger Sneezing
Dogs love to sniff everything, which sometimes gets them into trouble. While less common than other causes; it is possible for tiny objects — like grass seeds, dirt, or even toy fragments — to become lodged in the nasal passages.
A sudden burst of sneezing, pawing at the nose, or visible discomfort may mean something is stuck. Because a lodged object can block breathing or cause infection, it's important to have your vet check right away. Attempting to remove it yourself may cause more harm than good.5
Infections and Illnesses Can Also Cause Sneezing
Dogs can get upper respiratory infections much like humans do. These can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or even fungi. If sneezing is paired with a runny nose, coughing, loss of energy, or reduced appetite, infection may be to blame. Left untreated, these illnesses can worsen, so timely veterinary care is important.6
Sometimes an infection lingers in the sinuses, leading to ongoing sneezing and nasal discharge. Antibiotics, antifungals, or supportive care may be required, depending on the cause.
A lesser-known cause of sneezing is nasal mites. These tiny parasites live inside the nasal passages, causing irritation and sometimes bloody discharge. Because they're too small to see, only a veterinarian can confirm their presence. Thankfully, treatment is usually straightforward and effective once diagnosed.7
Dental Issues and Nasal Tumors
Surprisingly, dental disease is another sneezing trigger. The roots of some upper teeth sit very close to the nasal passages. When those roots become infected or abscessed, the infection can break through into the nose. Watch out for certain symptoms, like bad breath, difficulty chewing, dropping food while eating and swelling around the face.
Though rare, nasal tumors are another possible cause of frequent sneezing. They typically cause symptoms that worsen over time, such as chronic sneezing, nose bleeds, runny nose, and facial swelling.8
While the thought of cancer can be frightening, catching it early makes treatment more effective. Some dogs respond well to surgery or radiation therapy, or natural therapy with herbs and acupuncture, especially when diagnosed in the early stages.
Breed-Specific Factors
Some breeds are naturally prone to sneezing because of their facial structure. This includes most brachycephalic breeds, which have flat faces and smaller nostrils and respiratory passages. These breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and French Bulldogs.
Because their noses and sinuses are compacted, these breeds often deal with more nasal irritation and difficulty breathing. However, if your dog is in this category, any change in breathing patterns should be taken seriously.9
Holistic and Supportive Care Options for Your Sneezing Pet
While many sneezes are harmless, certain symptoms mean it's time to make an appointment with your integrative veterinarian. One example is if the sneezing has become persistent or has worsened over several days. Other red flags to be aware of include:
- Bloody or thick nasal discharge
- Trouble breathing or noisy breathing
- Loss of appetite or energy
- Swelling around the nose or face
Your veterinarian may recommend tests such as a nasal swab to test for viruses or bacteria, bloodwork, X-rays or dental exams to pinpoint the cause. However, there are holistic approaches that will help reduce sneezing and improve overall respiratory health, such as:
- Herbal support — Quercetin (a natural antihistamine) or marshmallow root can soothe irritated nasal passages, and formulas containing honeysuckle and forsythia can help in the case of upper respiratory viruses.
- Antioxidants — Vitamins A and C help strengthen immune defenses.
- Omega-3 fatty acids — Found in fish oil or flaxseed, these reduce inflammation and support the respiratory system.10
A clean environment also does wonders. Consider reducing dust, washing bedding, and using air filters to lower allergen exposure. In addition, always check with your vet before adding supplements or herbs, since each dog's needs are unique.
Final Thoughts
Sneezing in dogs can range from harmless communication to signs of allergies, infections, dental disease, or more serious conditions. The key is to watch the bigger picture. If your dog is happy, energetic, and only sneezes here and there, chances are it's nothing serious.
But if sneezing is persistent, paired with other symptoms, or just feels "off," your veterinarian is the best person to guide you. Early diagnosis can make all the difference — whether it’s treating a simple infection, managing allergies, or the early intervention of a more serious condition.
Above all, trust your instincts. You know your dog best. If something seems unusual, reaching out for help ensures your furry friend stays healthy, comfortable, and ready for the next playful adventure.
