Why Does My Dog Wheeze When He Gets Excited?
July 22, 2022
You may be wondering why your dog sneezes when he gets excited. It’s not uncommon for dogs to become excited when going outdoors, but wheezing isn’t due to excitement at all, it’s a reaction to allergens. Fortunately, there are several reasons your dog may sneeze, including a Yeast infection of the skin and Asthma.
Reverse sneezing causes a spasm in the muscles of the pharynx
Reverse sneezing is caused by irritation of the muscles of the pharynx, the part of the throat behind the mouth and above the trachea and oesophagus. The spasms occur because the throat is too narrow, making it difficult for the dog to breathe properly. Dogs try to compensate for this problem by stretching their neck and forcing air out their mouth. When this happens, the throat becomes stretched, and the air moves rapidly through the narrowed pharynx, making the dog sound like they are dying.
The cause of reverse sneezing is not known, but it is likely related to a trigger in the environment. Airborne irritants in the home can cause this. You can prevent it by limiting the amount of these products in your home. Inhalation of airborne irritants can also trigger reverse sneezing episodes, so limit your dog’s outdoor time during high-pollen seasons.
Asthma causes wheezing
There are many possible causes of wheezing in dogs, including bacterial or viral infections, tumors, or reverse sneezing. While these conditions are not life-threatening, they should be treated immediately to prevent the dog from developing respiratory problems. In severe cases, wheezing in dogs may also be the result of canine asthma. Recent wildfires and smoky skies in California have caused the air quality to be less than optimal, and this can cause respiratory problems in our pets.
Other common causes of wheezing in dogs include dust, pollen, and cigarette smoke. Sometimes, dogs are allergic to insect bites or stings. Fortunately, these allergies are common in dogs and can be treated easily with regular deworming. Chronic bronchitis, a chronic condition of the airways, is another possible cause of wheezing in dogs. This chronic respiratory disease causes inflammation of the airways, which can lead to runny and watery discharge.
Yeast infection of the skin causes wheezing
A dog’s wheezing sounds like a yeast infection of the skin. The infection is a fungus that thrives in a moist environment. It can occur in any part of the body, including the ears and skin. While your dog may experience only mild symptoms, you can identify early signs by looking at your dog’s skin. If it’s inflamed, your dog will scratch the infected area frequently, rubbing against surfaces or licking. The infection may also cause swelling that progresses to pain and warmth.
While most dogs don’t get a yeast infection, some breeds are more prone than others to it. Those with excessive skin folds or ears are more likely to contract it than others. Breeds with weakened immune systems and floppy ears are also more likely to develop yeast infections. Genetics also play a role. Certain breeds of dogs are more likely to contract the infection, so a dog with one of these problems should be treated immediately.
Reverse sneezing
When your dog wheezes when he’s excited, he may be experiencing a reverse sneeze. This type of coughing and wheezing occurs when the throat or soft palate is irritated. During this spasm, your dog’s neck and chest expand, which narrows the trachea, making breathing difficult. If this happens frequently, you should visit your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Another common cause of reverse sneezing is a narrowed larynx. This causes resistance to the breathing process, and your dog may sneeze and wheeze to relieve the resistance. This type of wheezing is commonly known as a stertor. It is a low-pitched, throat-hearing sound that is often caused by fluid and soft tissue in the upper respiratory system.
Sometimes the reverse sneezing can be a symptom of an underlying condition or allergy. In these cases, your veterinarian may prescribe Benadryl, but this medication can interact with other treatments and the dog’s underlying condition. Massage may also help your dog feel better and stop the irritation. If you suspect reverse sneezing, visit Patton Veterinary Hospital, serving Red Lion and surrounding areas.