Reverse Sneezing: The Lhasa Apso's Dramatic Performance
Picture this: your adorable Lhasa Apso is happily trotting along, when suddenly, they start wheezing and snorting like they're auditioning for a role in a canine horror movie. Panic sets in as you wonder if your furry friend is about to meet their maker. But fear not, dear reader, for this dramatic display is often just a case of reverse sneezing – a condition that sounds scarier than it actually is.
Laura LhasaFam
2/5/20251 min read
Reverse Sneezing: The Canine Snort Fest
So, what exactly is reverse sneezing? Medically known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration (try saying that five times fast), it's when your dog rapidly pulls air into their nose, unlike a regular sneeze where the air is pushed out. Imagine your dog trying to inhale a whole pizza in one go – that's reverse sneezing for you.
During an episode, your Lhasa might look like they're doing their best impression of a vacuum cleaner, with their neck extended, eyes bulging, and elbows sticking out. It's a short-lived spectacle, usually lasting one to two minutes, and it can be triggered by anything from dust and allergens to cigarette smoke and leash tugging. Basically, if it's in the air, your Lhasa's nose is on it.
The Quick Fix: Snort No More
When you see your dog "snorting" like they're trying to suck up all the air in the room, don't panic. The trick is to make them swallow. You can do this by massaging their upper throat area or briefly closing their nostrils. Yes, you read that right – just pinch those little nose openings for a second, and voilà, the snorting stops almost immediately. It's like magic, but with more dog slobber.
Is It Really Reverse Sneezing?
In rare cases, reverse sneezing can be caused by a malformation in the nasal passage, nasal tumors, mites, or inflammation. So, if you're ever in doubt, it's always best to consult your vet. Better safe than sorry, right?
The Silver Lining: They'll Be Okay
If you're worried about what will happen if your dog has a reverse sneezing episode while you're not around, don't be. They might look like they're struggling, but they can and do recover without us. It's just another day in the life of a Lhasa Apso – full of drama, snorts, and a whole lot of love.
So, the next time your Lhasa Apso puts on their best reverse sneezing performance, take a deep breath, give their nose a gentle pinch, and remember: it's all part of the show. 🐾🎭