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Why is my small dog struggling to breathe with snorting sounds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 6 years and 2 months old | 6.5 lbs

I have a Yorkshire terrier and She’s 7 years She’s been breathing strange for 2 weeks. It’s not always but sometimes she stops for 20 seconds and seems like she struggle breathing and a strong sound( this happenes 10-15 times) I went to the doctor, they said it’s flu, giving 3 days of treatment but she’s still doing it after a week from the treatment! She’s eating, playing and poo like normal Please someone help me

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 16th, 2020

It sounds like she may have reverse sneezing which is nothing to worry about. I suggest you watch some YouTube videos to see if that is what you think she is doing. This is very common in small breed dogs. ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3L4v0W2_Sw ) ( https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/reverse-sneeze-in-dogs )

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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Published on April 28th, 2017

    This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or eventually to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). Reverse sneezing is possible as well. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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