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My dog is breathing strangely, snorting or forcing air out. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 8 years and 5 months old

Why is my dog breathing and then forcing air out

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2016

She may be reverse sneezing which can be associated with allergies. Here is a link with more information on reverse sneezing and you can also find videos online to see if that is what she is doing. You could have your vet take a look at her to determine the exact cause and needed treatment. Your vet could take xrays, if needed, to help diagnose. https://www.vetinfo.com/reverse-sneezing-dogs.html

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sounds like your pet is having some labored or difficulty breathing, which can be caused by several things including heat stroke, primary lung disease, heartworms, heart failure, or even certain anemia's (low red blood cell count), an anaphylactic reaction, etc. If this breathing abnormality has been on-going for more than 30 minutes-1 hr, or if you notice your pet's tongue is turning blue at any point in time or can't get enough oxygen in, then this is considered an emergency situation and Jesabell should seek medical attention immediately. They may need to place her on oxygen to prevent respiratory/cardiac collapse and stabilize her condition, before doing all the necessary steps to finding out the true cause of her condition. Once the cause is found then the correct treatment can be recommended to treat her properly.

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