Help! My Dog Is Sneezing a Lot! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Hello Dr. Paola,
Cooper is an 18-month-old Goldendoodle. He is a joy with lots of energy. Just in the last week or so, he’s been sneezing a lot. What are some things we can try to stop the sneezing?
Thank you.“ – Judy
Quick Info about Cooper
Hi Judy,
Thank you for reaching out and for sharing a little about Cooper. At 18 months old and full of energy, a sudden onset of sneezing that persists for more than a few days is something worth paying attention to, especially if there’s no obvious trigger. Sneezing in dogs can be caused by several things, including environmental irritants like dust, pollen, or household cleaners, as well as more specific issues like foreign material (for example, a grass awn/foxtail lodged in the nasal passage), mild upper respiratory infections, or even dental problems that affect the nasal cavity. In younger dogs, foreign bodies are a common cause, particularly if the sneezing started suddenly and includes pawing at the nose or discharge coming from one nostril.
To help Cooper at home, consider whether there have been any recent changes to his environment. Vacuuming frequently, using air purifiers, and avoiding strong scents like sprays or candles can minimize exposure to irritants. If he enjoys sniffing around outdoors, try gently rinsing his nostrils with sterile saline using a veterinary nasal rinse to help clear out allergens or debris. However, if the sneezing is frequent, worsens, or is accompanied by nasal discharge, especially if it’s one-sided or contains blood, it’s important to have him examined. In these cases, a veterinarian may need to perform a rhinoscopy or imaging to check for inflammation, infection, or a foreign object. Mild, seasonal sneezing can sometimes resolve on its own, but persistent or progressive signs should always be investigated to avoid complications.
Best,
– Dr. Paola