Is your dog snorting through their nose like they’re trying to sneeze, snore, or even choke? That strange snorting sound can be alarming—especially if it comes on suddenly or frequently. But most of the time, nasal snorting in dogs is harmless and short-lived. Still, there are cases when it could point to something more serious.
This in-depth guide will help you understand what nasal snorting means in dogs, what causes it, and how to tell the difference between a harmless snort and a medical concern.
Why Is My Dog Snorting Through Their Nose?
Dogs snort through their noses for many reasons—most of them related to irritation, excitement, or short-term airway constriction. The most common explanation is something called “reverse sneezing,” but other issues like allergies, nasal infections, or anatomical factors can play a role too.
The key is to observe your dog’s body language and note when and how often it happens. Occasional snorting is usually nothing to worry about. But if it becomes frequent, painful, or paired with other symptoms, it’s worth checking with your vet.
What Is Reverse Sneezing?
Reverse sneezing is one of the most common causes of nasal snorting in dogs, especially small breeds. It’s a harmless condition where the dog quickly pulls air into the nose instead of pushing it out, creating a loud snorting or honking noise.
What It Looks and Sounds Like:
- Dog suddenly stands still and extends its neck
- Repeated snorting, snuffling, or gasping noises
- Usually lasts 10–30 seconds
- Dog returns to normal as if nothing happened
Reverse sneezing can be caused by excitement, pulling on a leash, dust, pollen, perfumes, or sudden temperature changes. Though it sounds alarming, it’s generally harmless and doesn’t require treatment.
Other Common Causes of Dog Snorting
If your dog isn’t reverse sneezing, snorting might be caused by other triggers or underlying conditions.
Possible Causes Include:
- Allergies: Pollen, dust, mold, or household irritants can cause nasal congestion
- Excitement or exercise: Dogs may snort when overstimulated or breathing heavily
- Collapsed trachea: Common in toy breeds; can cause honking coughs and snorting
- Brachycephalic syndrome: Short-nosed breeds often snort due to airway structure
- Nasal mites or infections: Cause itching, discharge, and noisy breathing
- Obstructions: Foreign objects like grass seeds or dirt in the nasal passages
If your dog’s snorting is sudden, frequent, or accompanied by other symptoms like nosebleeds, pawing at the face, or nasal discharge, you should consult your vet right away.
Which Breeds Are Prone to Snorting?
Short-nosed or brachycephalic breeds are more likely to snort through their noses regularly due to the shape of their airways.
Breeds That Commonly Snort:
- French Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Shih Tzus
- Boston Terriers
- Boxers
- English Bulldogs
These breeds often snort, snuffle, and breathe loudly as part of their normal respiratory behavior. However, any increase in intensity or frequency should still be monitored, especially during hot weather or physical exertion.
When Is Dog Snorting a Medical Concern?
If your dog’s snorting is frequent, forceful, or accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate a more serious condition.
Watch for These Warning Signs:
- Nasal discharge (clear, green, or bloody)
- Frequent sneezing or coughing
- Pawing at the face or nose
- Loss of appetite or lethargy
- Gagging, vomiting, or trouble breathing
- Swelling or deformity of the nose or face
Any of the above symptoms could signal a nasal infection, dental issue, tumor, foreign body, or respiratory condition that needs immediate veterinary attention.
How to Help a Dog That’s Snorting
In the moment, you can help your dog calm down and recover faster from a snorting episode—especially if it’s reverse sneezing.
Try This:
- Gently massage your dog’s throat to encourage swallowing
- Cover their nostrils for a split second to trigger a swallow reflex
- Speak calmly and avoid panicking—they feed off your energy
- Lead them into a quiet space to relax
If your dog snorts after eating or drinking, try feeding smaller portions, raising their food bowl slightly, or limiting vigorous activity after meals.
How Vets Diagnose Chronic Snorting
If your dog snorts frequently, your vet may perform tests to determine the cause. These may include:
- Physical exam (including nasal inspection)
- Nasal swabs or cultures
- X-rays or CT scans for blockages or abnormalities
- Endoscopy to examine internal nasal passages
Treatment depends entirely on the cause—ranging from simple antihistamines for allergies to surgery in cases of obstruction or tracheal collapse.
Can Behavior Affect Snorting?
Yes—dogs under stress, anxiety, or overexcitement can exhibit more snorting, huffing, and rapid breathing. If your dog tends to snort when overstimulated, reactive, or anxious, behavior training can make a big difference.
If your dog snorts during leash walks, around other dogs, or while barking, reactivity may be the root cause. Learn how to calm your dog’s nervous system, reduce overstimulation, and stop stressful behaviors with the Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar. It’s completely free and packed with easy, calming strategies you can use today.
Tips to Reduce Nasal Irritation in Dogs
If your dog’s snorting is caused by irritants or environmental triggers, small changes can help reduce episodes.
Try These Adjustments:
- Use an air purifier to reduce dust and dander
- Avoid strong scents like air fresheners or candles
- Limit exposure to pollen-heavy outdoor areas
- Clean bedding and soft surfaces frequently
- Switch to a harness if your dog pulls on the leash
Dogs with allergies may also benefit from vet-approved antihistamines or immune-support supplements.
What About Snorting While Sleeping?
Snorting or noisy breathing during sleep is common in many dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds. But if your dog wakes up gasping, snores excessively, or seems to stop breathing briefly, it may point to a condition like sleep apnea or airway obstruction.
Let your vet know if you notice:
- Frequent waking from sleep with snorting or gagging
- Loud, labored breathing at rest
- Changes in sleep position to breathe more easily
A sleep-related breathing disorder could require intervention to keep your dog safe and rested.
Conclusion
Snorting through the nose is common in dogs and often completely harmless—especially in short-nosed breeds or during reverse sneezing. But if it happens frequently, causes distress, or is paired with other symptoms, it’s time to dig deeper.
And if your dog tends to snort when overstimulated, walks poorly on a leash, or reacts strongly to people or sounds, calming their nervous system may be the answer. Learn how with the free Solve Dog Reactivity AutoWebinar. It’s your step-by-step guide to peace, focus, and better communication—no force, frustration, or expensive trainers required.