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Both my puppy and older dog are reverse sneezing. Is it contagious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 17 days old | 2.65 lbs

Hi I recently bought my puppy home, he was with me on his 38th day, after 2 days he was reverse sneezing at night in 20 mins intervals. On the groomers advice we are giving him homeopathy medicine assuming it's a cold due to the AC. It's been 4 days, his cough/sneeze has reduced, but tonight my 9yr old pug has also started reverse sneezing. Could it be bacterial or some allergen causing infection and not a cold to them both? What medicine/precaution should I take/give?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ana M, DVM

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question. Pixie is adorable! I suspect that he has an upper respiratory infection (viral or bacterial cause) and has now spread it to your adult dog. I would recommend that he sees a veterinarian as he is so young. If he does not require medication, then vaccines and deworming can be discussed. If your older dog is not eating or drinking or if his symptoms worsen, he will need to be seen as well. I would not recommend give any over-the-counter medication at home. I hope this information helps!
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