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Puppy reverse sneezing while eating: Is it normal or concerning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year old | 10.6 lbs

My puppy did this weird sneeze/hack thing while eating and now it’s like she has reverse hiccups. I think food might have gone down the wrong pipe or something. She’s still eating but should I be concerned? It’s like an inhale of breath but like hiccups.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 17th, 2018

It sounds like a reverse sneeze. Reverse sneezes are typically nothing to worry about. They are usually allergy or even upper respiratory related. I have also seen dogs do it from dust and other things but they tend to resolve quickly. Here is a video on what it sounds and looks like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXDledRQ7y4 If she won't stop and is continuously doing it I would have a veterinarian look at her or if you really feel she is having trouble breathing. Typically this doesn't warrant a trip to the vet though. Thank you for using PetCoach.

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