If your Shih Tzu has been sneezing a lot lately, or you’ve noticed that they sometimes sneeze when they’re playing or excited, you may wonder why your dog sneezes so much, what it means, whether they’re not well, and if you should be worried.
Shih Tzus sneeze for various reasons. Like us, they sometimes sneeze when their nose is irritated. For Shih Tzus, it’s usually caused by dust, pollen, or something that got stuck in their nose after sniffing low vegetation.
But unlike us, Shih Tzus also sneeze as a form of communication to show that they’re playing or excited. If your Shih Tzu is sneezing more than usual, talk to your veterinarian, especially if they’re sneezing a lot or showing other signs of concern, such as nosebleeds, discharge, excessively wet or dry nose, or signs of discomfort.
What is a reverse sneeze?
Any irritation, swelling, or obstruction in your Shih Tzu’s mouth, throat, or nose can cause them to make a strange sound known as a reverse sneeze. This reflex action is a spasm that produces a sudden, sharp intake of air through the nose.
This action may seem odd, but it helps them dislodge or remove anything that’s causing discomfort or irritation. A reverse sneeze sounds strange and is often described as a honking, snorting, or snorting sound. It’s more common in overweight, smaller, or flat-faced (brachycephalic) Shih Tzus. A reverse sneezing episode can last for about half a minute and can be quite scary if you don’t know what it is.
Reverse sneezing may not be comfortable for your Shih Tzu, but a single episode is usually not a cause for concern. If your Shih Tzu has multiple episodes or if you’re worried about their health, consult your veterinarian.
Why do Shih Tzus sneeze when they play?
Shih Tzus sometimes sneeze to show that they’re happy, excited, or playful. These “play sneezes” are often used during more lively play fights to show that they’re not being aggressive or threatening and are just having fun. Shih Tzus use these sneezes, almost for comedic effect, to help relieve any tension and let their playmate know that they’re not being attacked. Along with wagging their tail, raising their ears, or licking, these types of sneezes are just another example of how Shih Tzus use their bodies to communicate.
Is something stuck in my Shih Tzu’s nose?
If your Shih Tzu is sneezing a lot and scratching their nose, it’s possible that something is stuck in there. Your Shih Tzu uses their nose and fantastic sense of smell to explore the world, and it’s easy for things to get lodged in their nostrils while sniffing low vegetation. Common items found in a Shih Tzu’s nose include sharp grass seeds, grass blades, leaves, or food. After walking in fields, always check for grass seeds on your Shih Tzu and take a look at their snout too. If you think something may be stuck in your dog’s nose, consult your veterinarian immediately.
What’s irritating my Shih Tzu’s nose?
A Shih Tzu’s nose is incredibly sensitive. Dust, pollen, strong perfumes, cleaning products, air fresheners, diffusers, and hair spray can cause irritation and make them sneeze. When using aerosols or spray products, make sure to use them in a separate room from your dog to help avoid