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Why is My Dog Sneezing?

At one point or another, we have all probably asked the question, "why is my dog sneezing?"

Dogs sneeze in order to get rid of infectious organisms such as bacteria and viruses. They also sneeze to expel foreign bodies that have found their way up their nostrils. Dog sneezing is a symptom, not an illness by itself. Instead of just using drugs to suppress the symptom, therefore, it is advisable to use natural remedies to boost the dog's system in order to help it clear up the airways. More importantly, we have to find out and deal with the underlying cause that makes our dogs sneeze.

Causes of Dog Sneezing

As you will see, there are many possible causes that can cause a dog to sneeze. Some possible causes include:

  • Upper respiratory tract infections caused by airborne virus, such as parainfluenza virus.
  • Upper respiratory tract infections caused by bacteria, such as Bordetella, Streptococci, etc.

    • Dog Sneezing

  • Allergies caused by pollens or mold (usually the sneezing is accompanied by excessive scratching, paw chewing, licking, and watery eyes).
  • Allergies caused by household chemicals and other products such as perfumes, cigarette smoke, etc.
  • Foreign bodies, such as foxtails, dead bugs, small sticks, tinsels, etc.
  • Tumors (usually accompanied by bloody nasal discharge from one side of the nostril).
  • Tooth abscesses (if an upper canine tooth becomes infected, sneezing and nasal discharges are common signs).
  • Breed characteristics (dogs with short snout such as pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese, etc.) are more likely to sneeze due to infection or irritating products.

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Find Out the Causes of Dog Sneezing

Here are some questions that may be helpful in pinpointing the possible cause that brings about sneezing in your dog:

  • Does the sneezing happen right after a walk in the woods? (Possible cause: foreign bodies in the nostril)
  • Does the sneezing begin suddenly and is the sneezing violent? (Possible cause: foreign bodies)
  • Does the sneezing happen only in spring or early summer? (Possible cause: seasonal allergy)
  • Are the sneezing fits triggered by eating? (Possible cause: food allergy)
  • Is the nasal discharge only one-sided? (Possible causes: tumor, tooth abscess, foreign bodies)
  • Is the nasal discharge bloody? (Possible causes: foreign bodies, tumor, tooth abscess)
  • Is the sneezing accompanied by fever? (Possible causes: tumor, upper respiratory tract infection)

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When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?

Take your dog to the vet immediately if:

  • the nasal discharge is bloody
  • the discharge obstructs breathing
  • the sneezing continues for more than 3 days, and occurs more than 3-4 times a day
  • the dog is weak and cannot eat because of the sneezing

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Homeopathic Remedies for Dog Sneezing and Nasal Discharge

Sneezing in Dogs

Homeopathic remedies are effective in alleviating the discomfort caused by dog sneezing. There are quite a few remedies can be used depending on the specific symptoms.

If you want to use homeopathic remedies for your dog's sneezing fits, consider the following. If you are still unsure, consult a holistic vet.

Arsenicum album

This remedy is indicated for dogs with much sneezing, watery discharge which is a little corrosive, and the nasal passages may be painful to touch. The dogs are restless and thirsty, and are often very skittish.

Allium cepa

This remedy (made from red onions) is suitable for dogs with watery eye and nose discharges, red eyes, and frequent sneezing. The eye discharge is often bland, while the nasal discharge burns the nose and the upper lip.

Aconitum napellus

Dogs requiring this remedy have sudden onset of symptoms - sore, red, watery eye; sneezing with little nasal discharge; dry coughing; and they show great fear and anxiety. The symptoms tend to worsen in a warm room.

Calcarea sulphurica

This remedy is useful if your dog has thick, lumpy, yellow mucous discharges from his nose and/or eyes. Sometimes the yellow discharge from the nose may be blood-tinged. Calcarea sulphurica is often used to encourage respiratory health and promote the health of the throat and nasal passages.

Hepar sulphuris

This remedy is suitable for dogs with an upper respiratory infection that has progressed to the point of sore. The nostrils can sometimes become ulcerated and there is a foul-smelling discharge from the nose.

Kali bichromicum

This remedy is suitable for dogs with greenish-yellow, elastic, ropy discharge from the eyes and nose. They also develop tough crusts on the outer portion of the nostrils that are difficult to remove. Breathing through the nose is difficult and violent sneezing often occur as a result. They may also have a sore throat which makes swallowing difficult. The symptoms are usually better in warm conditions and worse in the morning.

Sulphur

This remedy is indicated for dogs with watery, irritating, and sometimes yellowish nasal discharges. Sneezing is frequent, and the dogs may also rub the nose and the eyes because of the burning irritation. They are thirsty and have poor appetite. Early morning tends to be the worst.

Pulsatilla

Dogs needing this remedy are not thirsty; they are affected with bland, greenish-yellow nasal discharges that obstruct the nose and fill the eyelids. Besides sneezing, the dogs also have itchy eyes and an irritating cough. The symptoms worsen in a warm, stuffy atmosphere and in the evening.

An Excellent Herbal and Homeopathic Combo for Dog Sneezing

PetAlive Sinu-Rite

This formula contains several homeopathic remedies such as Pulsatilla (Windflower), Kali bichromicum, Glycorrhiza (Licorice), and Sambucus (Elderberry). Very effective in supporting sinus health and maintaining immune system health and functioning.

To further strengthen the respiratory system, including the nose, throat and lungs, you may also want to consider using Sinu-Rite in conjunction with:

PetAlive Respo-K

This herbal-homeopathic combo formula contains the herbs mullein which is widely used to soothe the chest and nasal passages, and Elderberry which is anti-inflammatory and supports healthy mucus levels in the nasal passages. In addition, it contains homeopathic remedies such as Calcarea sulphurica, and Hepar sulphuris. A good remedy if your dog has a cold, or upper respiratory infection resulting in coughing and sneezing.

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Other Natural Remedies for Dog Sneezing

Ointments of Calendula or Aloe

If your dog's nose becomes red and irritating because of the nasal discharges resulting from sneezing, apply an ointment of either calendula or aloe to the affected area(s).

Herbs

Immune-boosting herbs, such as echinacea can be fed to your dog for a week to boost his immune system.

Antioxidants

Vitamins C and E are antioxidants and are effective in reduce the intensity of the inflammation.



Related Topics

Common Dog Allergies
Coughing in Dogs

References

D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).
Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005).

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