Writer Elizabeth Vecsi says reverse sneezing isn’t really sneezing. Officially termed pharyngeal gag reflex or paroxysmal respiration, reverse sneezing in dogs is a condition where a dog will extend his neck and begin making gasping sounds as though she can’t catch her breath. Seeing a dog honk, snort or gasp for breath is alarming for dog owners.
Source: Dogster, May 23, 2019. Link.
Coughing and reverse sneezing sound similar to an untrained, unfamiliar ear, but actually have many differences,” according to Michael S. Stone, DVM, DACVIM. “A dog coughing will expel air out of the mouth, resulting in a dry, hacking noise. Reverse sneezing involves rapid inhalations through the nose, indicated by the pig-like snorting.”
INSIGHTS: The article lists several reasons reverse sneezing occurs. Consider it for social media posts and e-newsletters. Be sure to orientate staff members about differences between coughing and reverse sneezing.