Canine Reverse Sneezing Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Reverse sneezing, also known as paroxysmal respiration or inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, is a relatively common respiratory event in dogs characterized by rapid, forceful inhalation through the nose producing a distinctive snorting or honking sound. Unlike a regular sneeze where air is forcefully expelled through the nose, reverse sneezing involves the rapid inhalation of air, creating what appears to be labored breathing.

This condition is triggered by irritation of the nasopharynx (the area at the back of the nose, above the hard and soft palates), which initiates a reflex resulting in a series of multiple, loud, sudden, rapid inhalations. During an episode, the glottis (opening to the trachea) partially closes, and the dog extends its neck while making snorting sounds as it attempts to clear the irritation.

Relevant Anatomy

Upper Respiratory Tract Structures

Nasopharynx: The portion of the pharynx located dorsal to the soft palate, extending from the caudal nasal cavity (choanae) to the intrapharyngeal opening. This is the primary site of irritation triggering reverse sneezing. It is bounded dorsally by the basisphenoid bone, laterally by the pterygoid bone, and ventrally by the soft palate.