This week, Dr. Manley answers a question about a dog who has frightening wheezing attacks.

This week's question:
Dear Dr. Manley,
I have a one and a half year old male, neutered Chihuahua mix who weighs about 8 pounds. He has never had any serious health issues, although I think he is a bit underweight. Sometimes he has these “wheezing” attacks where it sounds like he can’t breathe, and it sounds like he is forcing air out of his nose and trying to breathe in air without opening his mouth. When this happens, I pick him up and talk to him in a very soothing voice and try to calm him down and he usually stops right away and starts to breathe normally. But I’m worried about what can happen if he has one of these attacks when I’m not there to calm him down so he can breathe again. What causes these attacks and is there anything I can do to prevent them? I’ve noticed that they often occur after he drinks a lot of water or after he has a vigorous play session with my other dogs.

Thank you so much for your help!

Dr. Manley's Reply:
Hi,
This sounds like a reverse sneeze. A reverse sneeze is a snorting sound triggered by stimulation of the pharynx. The noise is heard upon inspiration (the pet is breathing in) suggesting an upper airway problem. Most small breed dogs exhibit this reaction. It is not uncommon for it to occur after a pet eats, drinks or becomes excited. The episodes usually last less than 2 minutes. Though your pet seem anxious during these spasms, the reverse sneeze is not a life threatening or treatable condition. If your pet has had several episodes in your presence, it is likely he is having them in your absence and has done just fine.

Now for the disclaimer. It would be wise for you to see your vet. There could be a problem in the pharynx or nose (such as a growth or a foreign body) or larynx. These problems should be ruled out.

Thanks for the question....Dr. Manley

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Dr. Cleveland Manley, Jr. is one of the wonderful veterinarians at VCA Pet Doctor in Richardson, TX. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University - College of Veterinary Medicine.

DallasDogLife wants to remind our readers that Dr. Manley does his best to answer your questions with the information that he is given, but cannot always provide the best diagnosis for your dog without an office visit. If your dog ever appears to be in pain or shows signs of serious illness, take him or her to your vet IMMEDIATELY.