How To Stop Yorkie Reverse Sneezing? 7 Useful Tips

If you’re a Yorkie parent you may have heard the startling sound of a Yorkie reverse sneezing. It’s a common problem in small dogs but can be quite scary if you’ve never seen it before. In this post we’ll go over what causes reverse sneezing in Yorkies, how to stop it and why it happens in other breeds too.

What is Reverse Sneezing in Yorkies?

Reverse sneezing is when a dog rapidly pulls air into his nose and makes a snorting sound. It looks like the dog is having trouble breathing or is choking but it’s usually harmless. This is technically called the “pharyngeal gag reflex”. Unlike regular sneezing where air is expelled out the nose, reverse sneezing is when air is rushed in.

In Yorkies reverse sneezing can be caused by many things. Knowing what triggers it is the first step to managing it.

What does reverse sneezing sound like in a Yorkie?

Reverse sneezing in a Yorkie sounds like a series of rapid, forceful inhalations that make a snorting or honking noise. It looks like the dog is trying to inhale sharply through a congested nose. During an episode the Yorkie will stick his head and neck out and his mouth will be closed as he makes these sounds.

The snorting can be rhythmic and continuous for a few seconds to a minute. It can be scary especially for new pet owners but it’s usually harmless and self resolving. Knowing what this sound is can help you distinguish it from other respiratory issues.

What causes Reverse Sneezing in Yorkies?

There are several reasons why Yorkies reverse sneeze:

1. Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of Yorkie reverse sneezing. Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to dust, pollen, smoke and other airborne irritants. When these allergens enter a Yorkie’s nasal passages they can cause inflammation and irritation and lead to reverse sneezing.

2. Excitement

Yorkies are known for being lively and excitable. Rapid changes in activity levels such as sudden bursts of excitement during playtime or when greeting their owner can trigger reverse sneezing. This is because the increased respiratory rate can irritate the nasal passages.

3. Leash Pulling

Using a collar that puts pressure on your Yorkie’s throat can also cause reverse sneezing. When a dog pulls on the leash it can compress the trachea and cause irritation. That’s why many vets recommend using a harness instead of a collar for small breeds like Yorkies.

4. Nasal Irritants

Foreign objects, strong odors or even dry air can irritate a Yorkie’s nasal passages. This irritation can trigger reverse sneezing. Make sure your home is free from strong chemicals and other irritants to reduce these episodes.

5. Genetics

Small breeds like Yorkies are more prone to reverse sneezing because of their anatomy. Their small size and the structure of their nasal passages make them more susceptible to this. Knowing this is part of their genetic makeup can help you manage it better.

What is Reverse Sneezing in Yorkies?

Reverse sneezing is more common in certain breeds and Yorkies are one of them. The condition itself is the sudden, rapid inhalation of air through the nose making a snorting sound. It can be scary but it’s usually not harmful.

Symptoms of Reverse Sneezing in Yorkies

• Rapid Snorting: The most obvious symptom is the rapid snorting sound.
• Sticking Head and Neck Out: Dogs will stick their head and neck out during an episode.
• Bulging Eyes: Some dogs’ eyes will bulge slightly.
• Stiff Body: Dogs will stiffen up during an episode.

These symptoms usually last for a few seconds to a minute and self resolve.

What can be mistaken for reverse sneezing in dogs?

Reverse sneezing in dogs characterized by rapid inhalations that make a snorting sound can be mistaken for several other conditions because of its sudden and dramatic presentation. One common condition is a collapsing trachea where the tracheal rings weaken and cause airway obstruction leading to coughing and gagging that can look like reverse sneezing.

Also respiratory infections like kennel cough can produce symptoms like persistent coughing and hacking which can be confused with reverse sneezing. Nasal mites which cause intense irritation and nasal discharge can also mimic the symptoms of reverse sneezing.

Allergic reactions which can cause sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion can also be mistaken for reverse sneezing. Even more serious conditions like heart disease can present with coughing and difficulty breathing and owners can think it’s just reverse sneezing.

It’s important for pet owners to observe their dogs closely and consult a vet if they notice frequent or prolonged episodes or if the dog is showing other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite or nasal discharge. Proper diagnosis will ensure the dog gets the right treatment and care and avoid misinterpreting the symptoms.

Yorkie Reverse Sneezing Treatment

When your Yorkie is reverse sneezing a lot you’ll feel worried. Here are some Yorkie reverse sneezing treatment tips:

1. Stay Calm

Your Yorkie will pick up your anxiety and it can worsen the episode. Stay calm and composed. Talk to your Yorkie in a soothing voice to calm them down.

2. Massage Their Throat

Gently massage your Yorkie’s throat to stop the spasm. Use your fingers to apply light pressure and rub the throat area in a circular motion. This will help soothe the irritation and stop the reverse sneezing.

3. Cover Their Nostrils

Briefly cover your Yorkie’s nostrils with your fingers. This will make them swallow which can help clear the irritant causing the sneezing. Be gentle and don’t block their breathing for too long.

4. Offer Water

Encourage your Yorkie to drink water to clear any irritants from their throat and nasal passages. Fresh water will soothe the irritation and stop the sneezing.

5. Environmental Changes

Reduce exposure to known allergens and avoid sudden temperature changes. Keep your home clean and dust and smoke free can reduce the frequency of reverse sneezing episodes.

6. Use a Humidifier

Dry air can irritate your Yorkie’s nasal passages. Using a humidifier at home can maintain moisture in the air and reduce reverse sneezing.

7. Consult Your Vet

If your Yorkie’s reverse sneezing is frequent or severe it’s time to consult your vet. Prolonged episodes can sometimes mean underlying health issues that need attention. Your vet may prescribe medication or further testing to rule out other conditions.

Reverse Sneezing in Yorkies

You can’t completely prevent reverse sneezing in Yorkies but you can minimize the frequency of episodes:

1. Avoid Irritants

Keep your home dust, smoke and chemical-free. Clean your Yorkie’s living area regularly and use air purifiers to reduce allergens in the air.

2. Use a Yorkie Harness

Switch from collar to harness to reduce the pressure on your Yorkie’s throat during walks.We offer you a wide selection of harnesses for Yorkies that will keep your dog safe and comfortable. 

No-Pull Yorkie Harness & Collar is perfect for those stubborn pullers and untrained puppies who want to take the lead. This dog harness offers a dog full body support and thanks to nylon straps that are padded with mesh, your pooch won’t get skin irritation.

3. Grooming

Grooming can reduce allergens like pollen and dust that accumulate on your Yorkie’s coat. Bathe your Yorkie with hypoallergenic shampoo and brush their coat regularly. Our Yorkie Shampoo and conditioner can be used both on puppies and seniors and will help you get rid of knots and matted hair.

4. Watch Their Diet

Some dogs have food allergies that can cause Yorkie reverse sneezing. Monitor your Yorkie’s diet and avoid foods that trigger sneezing episodes.

5. Regular Check-Ups

Regular vet check-ups can help identify underlying health issues that cause reverse sneezing. Your vet can give you personalized advice and treatment options.

When to Visit the Vet

Yorkie reverse sneezing is generally harmless but there are times to see a vet:

• Frequent Episodes: If your Yorkie is reverse sneezing a lot more than a few times a day, see a vet.
• Prolonged Episodes: If an episode lasts more than a minute or two, consult a vet.
• Other Symptoms: If your Yorkie has other symptoms like nasal discharge, coughing or difficulty breathing it could be a serious condition.

Your vet will do a full examination and prescribe treatment for any underlying issues.

READ ALSO: Why Does My Yorkie Want to Eat Grass?

Yorkie Reverse Sneezing: Conclusion

Yorkie reverse sneezing can be a bit of a worry but with the right knowledge and treatment, you can manage it. Stay calm, use the tips above and see your vet if episodes become frequent. Now you know what is reverse sneezing in Yorkies and other breeds so next time your Yorkie reverse sneezes you’ll be prepared to help them.