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My dog has a reverse sneeze. Allergies or cold? What meds are safe?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 1 month old | 52 lbs

So Nova has a pretty nasty "reverse sneeze" and I was just wondering if it cold be allergies or just a cold and if so what kind of cold meds or cough meds would be okay to give her? She has no fever or changes in appetite or energy or anything just the sneezing.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on May 10th, 2018

Hi there and thanks for posting your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Reverse sneezes are relatively common in dogs and are usually due to an allergen or sometimes can occur during periods of excitement. Reverse sneezes do not typically require medications to treat, unless an underlying allergy is suspected then an antihistamine may be prescribed by Nova's veterinarian.
Many cold medications that are over the counter can be potentially toxic to dogs and should never be given unless specifically directed by Nova's veterinarian. It may be a good idea for Nova to see her primary care veterinarian to make sure what she is experiencing is just a reverse sneeze and not a symptom of something else, such as an upper respiratory infection.

Thank you again for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
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