Boston Terriers are known for their expressive faces, boundless energy, and, of course, their signature snorts. But what if those adorable noises turn into constant sneezing? While an occasional sneeze is normal, frequent or intense sneezing can be a sign that something is irritating your pup—or even a warning that something more serious is going on.
Let’s explore five possible reasons why your Boston Terrier might be sneezing and what you can do to help.
Reverse Sneezing – The Classic Boston Terrier “Snort”
If you’ve ever seen your Boston Terrier suddenly stop, extend their neck, and make a loud snorting noise, you’ve witnessed reverse sneezing. It can look alarming, almost as if your dog is struggling to breathe, but in most cases, it’s completely harmless.
Reverse sneezing happens when something irritates the back of the throat, causing a spasm of the soft palate. Instead of forcefully exhaling like a normal sneeze, your dog rapidly inhales, creating that snorting or honking sound. Common triggers include excitement, sudden temperature changes, excessive drinking or eating, or strong scents like perfumes or cleaning products.
Though it sounds dramatic, reverse sneezing usually resolves within a few seconds to a minute. However, if it becomes frequent or severe, it’s worth checking with your vet to rule out underlying issues like nasal mites, allergies, or anatomical problems in the airway.
What to Do?
Allergies – Just Like Humans, Dogs Can Sneeze from Irritants
Boston Terriers, like many breeds, are prone to allergies, which can make them sneeze more than usual. Pollen, dust, mold, and even household cleaning products can all trigger sneezing fits. Some dogs also develop food allergies that cause skin irritation and inflammation in the respiratory system.
If your Boston Terrier sneezes a lot after spending time outside or rolling around on a rug, allergies might be to blame. Other signs of allergies include watery eyes, excessive licking of the paws, itchy skin, and ear infections.
What to Do?
Something Stuck in Their Nose
Boston Terriers are curious little dogs, always sniffing and investigating their surroundings. Sometimes, that curiosity leads to something getting lodged in their nasal passages—dust, dirt, grass seeds, or even tiny bits of food. If your dog suddenly starts sneezing violently and repeatedly, they might be trying to expel something stuck in their nose.
Other signs that something is trapped include pawing at the nose, discharge from one nostril, or even nosebleeds. If the sneezing doesn’t stop or seems painful, it’s best to get a vet to check it out.
What to Do?
Infections – When Sneezing is a Warning Sign
Not all sneezing is harmless. In some cases, frequent sneezing is a sign of infection. Respiratory infections, bacterial or fungal, can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to sneezing, runny nose, and even coughing.
Dogs with kennel cough, canine flu, or nasal mites may also experience frequent sneezing along with thick nasal discharge, lethargy, or loss of appetite. In some cases, sneezing with blood or persistent nasal discharge from one nostril could indicate a more serious problem, such as a nasal tumor.
What to Do?
Just a Playful Sneeze!
Boston Terriers are naturally playful dogs, and sometimes, sneezing is just part of the fun! Dogs often sneeze during playtime as a way to signal that they’re having a good time. If your Boston Terrier lets out a few sneezes while running around or wrestling with a toy, there’s no need to worry—it’s completely normal.
This type of sneezing is usually short dry and happens only in moments of excitement. It’s thought to be a way for dogs to communicate that they are playing and not being aggressive.
Sneezing in Boston Terriers can be anything from a harmless quirk to a sign of something more serious. Pay attention to when and how often your dog sneezes, and if you notice any unusual symptoms—like discharge, difficulty breathing, or excessive sneezing—it’s best to get them checked by a vet.
Most of the time, though, sneezing is part of being a Boston Terrier. Whether it’s reverse sneezing, allergies, or playful excitement, their quirky little snorts are just another reason to love them!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I worry about my Boston Terrier’s sneezing?
Occasional sneezing is normal, but see a vet if:
- Sneezing is frequent, forceful, or persistent.
- There is a bloody or thick yellow/green discharge.
- Your dog shows other symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or loss of appetite.
How do I get my Boston Terrier to stop reverse sneezing?
Reverse sneezing usually stops on its own, but you can help by:
- Gently massaging their throat to relax the spasm.
- Briefly covering their nostrils to encourage swallowing.
- Avoiding strong scents or allergens that may trigger episodes.
