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My dog sounds congested and inhales sharply, like a reverse sneeze.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 4 months old | 16 lbs

My dog Lola sounds congested almost like she would have to blow her nose but only in spurts usually when she wakes up or just a few random times a day it’s almost like she is inhaling sharply... she is eating/ drinking/ playing normal ... There is really not a photo that will help this but i do have. Video...

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lola. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian. With the holiday weekend, it is best to have her seen today as most places will be closed on Sunday and Monday. Based on your description of her, she may have an upper respiratory tract infection. This can cause congestion, a runny nose, coughing or a sharp inhale known as a reverse sneeze. The veterinarian will examine her and determine if this is the case. If so, many times antibiotics are prescribed. If this is not the case, she could be experiencing seasonal allergies, nasal mites, a nasal foreign body or mass. In the meantime, keep her home in case she is contagious. I hope this information helps!

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