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Why is my puppy wheezing and struggling to breathe sometimes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 8 months and 29 days old | 12 lbs

I have a seven month old Chihuahua terrier mix who is a very active puppy but a few months ago I started noticing that he would Do a wheezing/hick-up/trying to catch his breath, Each time it happens it lasts between 10 to 20 seconds. It used to only happen periodically but lately it’s been happening more and more and sometimes once daily or 3 to 4 times in a day/night. It doesn’t just happen after he’s been playing or running around sometimes it’ll happen even when he’s having a lazy day.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2019

This sounds like reverse sneezing which is fairly normal in small breed dogs. Here is a information sheet on this problem. It is nothing to worry about but if you are worried, I suggest you videotape an episode and take it to your vet’s office so they can advise you. ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952493 )

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 6th, 2017

    This is most likely a condition called "reverse sneezing." This is where he theist gets tickled and subsequently the pet tried to scratch the throat. Look at a YouTube video of other pets reverse sneezing to confirm this is what's happening to your fur babies. If this is the case then no worries, this isn't harmful to your pets. Just gently rub their throats and offer them a small amount of water on your finger tip. If it becomes a constant issue and starts impeding on your pet's quality of life, then have your vet examine them to make sure there isn't something else going on that needs to be treated for.

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