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Why is my dog sneezing and blowing his nose? How can I help him?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 12 days old | 46 lbs

Hi there, my 6 month old hound mix has been seemingly blowing his nose a lot lately and sneezing more than usual. he does dig and sniff constantly but it doesnt look or feel like he has debris in there. its the first time hes experienced cold weather so maybe thats a factor. any idea what it could be from or how i could help him before going to the vet?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 16th, 2018

What a cutie pie! I would try putting a humidifier in the room with him overnight or putting him in the bathroom while you run a steamy shower for 10-15 minutes to provide some beneficial moisture to his airways. If he develops discharge from the nose, coughing, eye discharge, decreased appetite, decreased energy these would be reasons to seek veterinary care. You can ask your vet if it would be ok to give him an antihistamine such as Benadryl or Zyrtec to see if it could be allergy related as well. We do use these drugs in dogs, but I always recommend checking with your vet before starting any new medication.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 23rd, 2019
It may be that he has some dust or a small bit of seed or plant, etc up his nose, or he may be reacting to something in the air. He may have something irritating the back of his throat. For tonight, as long as he's otherwise acting ok, give him some Benadryl and see if that helps tonight, and take him to your vet tomorrow if its continuing. Watch for bleeding from the nose or mucoid nasal discharge. If he starts having any trouble breathing, please seek emergency care.
see this article--scroll down a bit for dosing information for Benadryl.
https://www.petcoach.co/pet-medication/benadryl/
Thanks for asking PetCoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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