Why does my dog snort like a pig when playing

Strange, snorting and even oinking noises can make your dog sound much more like a pig than part of the canine family. But why does your dog make these strange sounds, is it harmful and what can you do to stop the awful piggy noises?

What Are The Common Causes Of Snorting In Dogs?

Most commonly, that snorting, oinking or honking sound is the result of what is referred to as reverse sneezing. This happens when the air is forced in through the nasal passages instead of outward. Reverse sneezing is caused by an irritation in the upper airway.

The irritation could be from an outward source such as dust, pollen or larger particles being breathed into through the nasal passages. It could also be as a result of excess mucous being created or collecting in the upper airway or a result of inflammation. Alternatively, the membranes in this area could simply be more sensitive in some dogs than others resulting in sneezing in reverse.

It could also be the sign of a respiratory tract infection or infection in the nasal passages. This is more likely to occur in dog breeds that are prone to these infections. However, the strange noises should be short-lived and not result in permanent or ongoing snorting or oinking. The infection may recur which can result in the sounds recurring.

It is also important to note that some dog breeds (called Brachycephalic) are more likely to make these strange noises than others. It is most common in smaller breeds with longer nasal passages, smaller nasal openings, narrow tracheas and soft palates such as Pugs, Shih Tzu, Pekingese and Bulldogs. This may occur whether an irritation exists in the upper airway or not and is not necessarily as a result of reverse sneezing. The noises will seem aggravated when the dog becomes overexcited or due to overexertion.

Are Piggy Noises Harmful Or Are They A Sign Of Disease Or Illness?

The strange noises are probably not harmful to your dog. A reverse sneeze is actually quite natural and does not hurt the dog. However, in rare cases, where sneezing becomes chronic, it may be recommended to visit the vet to prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication to alleviate the swelling and therefore the sneezing.

If your pet suddenly starts snorting, oinking and honking, it may be due to an infection. Should it not resolve on its own in a couple of days, a visit to the vet is recommended to treat the inflammation.

How Can You Stop The Strange Noises?

If you have a dog breed that is known for making strange noises, there is very little that you can do to stop it. However, if the noises are combined with trouble breathing, then there are some steps you can take to minimize their distress.

Look for environmental factors that could be irritating the airways and reduce exposure to these. If stress or overexertion are triggers, try to keep your canine friend calm and relaxed and limit extreme exercise and activity.

If you are really concerned about the odd noises coming from your dog, visit your vet for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Dogs make a lot of noises to convey what they feel. But why does my dog snort like a pig? Snorting is reverse sneezing, which is mainly caused by irritation in the laryngeal area.

This irritation will cause a spasm in the pharynx muscles. It will appear as if your dog is gasping in the nose.

Other triggers can also cause snorting, which I discussed below:

Why Does My Dog Snort Like A Pig?

1. Nasal tract irritation

Snorting isn’t normal behavior. It usually indicates a problem with your dog’s nasal tract. Your pooch might have sniffed a strong perfume or other cosmetic products. Other irritants like smoke, pollen, and dust can also trigger the same reaction.

When these irritants enter the nose, they will cause a spasm on the soft palate and the throat muscles. As your dog inhales the air while reverse sneezing, it will cause a sound as if your pooch is snorting like a pig.

However, if your dog doesn’t stop snorting, it’s best to call the vet. The veterinarian may prescribe an antihistamine to ease the irritation.

If snorting is accompanied by hacking, wheezing, and distress, you should bring the canine to the vet’s clinic for proper diagnosis.

2. You’re pulling the leash

If you’re walking your dog, you should check the tension of the leash. You might be pulling it too much to the point that already chokes your doggo.

Take note that you should keep the leash slightly loose to prevent strangling your doggo. This is very important, especially if you have a brachycephalic canine. You should also train your dog to walk on a leash.

3. Fluid backflow

Have you ever choked while drinking water and make a snorting sound? This is the same as your dog. Your dog might snort like a pig when it coughs while drinking or eating.

Coughing will cause the food or water to backflow to its nose, forcing the pooch to snort.

You should observe your dog after this happens as the fluid that back flowed might cause pneumonia. This is a rare occurrence, but you should not be too complacent.

4. Foreign object

A foreign matter that got stuck inside your dog’s nose will also trigger the snorting reaction. If you notice a discharge on your dog’s nose and incessant pawing on the affected area, you should perform a quick check.

You can use a flashlight to spot any unusual thing inside the nasal opening.

Foreign objects like grass, paper, and food can be the culprit behind this. If the object is far from the nasal opening, it’s best to bring the dog to the vet for proper removal.

5. Intranasal vaccine

Another possible reason why your dog snorts like a pig is an intranasal vaccination. This vaccine is intended to protect your dog against kennel cough. Dogs get this infection by breathing in the virus, so a nasal application is a perfect option.

However, this vaccine comes with some side effects, one of which is snorting and an answer to your question ‘why does my dog snort like a pig?’

This is normal and should subside within the day. If the snorting doesn’t stop within 48 hours, it’s best to bring the doggo back to the vet for a check.

Why Does My Dog Snort Like A Pig When Sleeping?

Snorting while sleeping is called inspiratory paroxysmal respiration. This occurs due to the muscle spasms at the back of your dog’s mouth. During a spasm, the tracheal opening will narrow down, which will make it hard for the dog to inhale.

As a result, the pooch will snort loudly. Some will be awakened by it.

Brachycephalic dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs are more prone to this. It’s due to the dog’s shorter airway that gets blocked easily.

Why Does My Dog Snort Like A Pig When I Pet Him?

Petting might be increasing your dog’s respiration, which will trigger irritation in the nasal area. It could be a stuck object, an infection, or dirt. Whatever it is, you should get your pet checked to be sure.

It’s not normal for dogs to snort when being petted. Unlike cats, dogs don’t purr, so there shouldn’t be a reason for them to have noise coming out of their noses.

Why Does My Dog Snort At Me?

If your dog snorts every time it gets close to you, there’s something in you that’s causing the irritation. It could be your perfume, the smell of your clothes’ detergent, or what you’re currently eating. Changing these will help stop the snorting.

Some dogs will also snort while playing. This is due to excitement and should not be a cause of concern. Experts call this the ‘play sneezing’, which is typically harmless.

Most of the time, dogs snort like a pig while playing to let you know that they are having a hard time and meant no harm.

However, if your dog starts snorting and stops playing, you should observe its behavior. Any sign of distress should be a red flag that the snorting isn’t just due to excitement.

Aside from that, dogs may snort after exercising. When this happens, let the pooch rest and cool down. You should also give the dog some water.

Can Reverse Sneezing Kill A Dog?

Reverse sneezing is very common and unlikely to kill a canine. Still, it will make your dog uncomfortable and anxious during a snorting episode. This is because each snorting fit may last for up to 30 seconds.

Don’t freak out if your dog gags while snorting. Your dog will also stick its tongue after reverse sneezing, so don’t panic.

This is a normal reaction because the nose is connected to the throat.

Why Does My Dog Snort Like A Pig When Excited?

When dogs are excited they tend to sneeze in a  shallow manner which produces a  sound due to the impulsive force of breath coming from the nose.

It is not the ‘actual’ sneeze that involves a reflexive respiratory response due to pressure buildup.

It can be a way of communicating that they are excited and happy.

How Can I Stop My Dog From Snorting Like A Pig?

If your dog’s snorting episode is making the pooch anxious, you can do something to ease the reaction. Here’s what I usually do whenever my dog Sherlock starts snorting:

If your dog is snorting like a pig, you need to identify the cause of the irritation. Depending on the cause your vet may recommend antibiotics or antiinflammatories.

 Once your dog snorts, try massaging its throat gently. This will help calm the spasms causing the reverse sneezing. However, be careful as some canines are not used to this stimulation and try to paw you.

 Sherlock’s vet said that blowing into the dog’s face will help stop the snorting. The sudden gush of air will trigger the dog’s swallowing reaction.

 Another trick you can use is covering your dog’s nostrils momentarily to force them to swallow. This will usually stop sneezing.

Conclusion

Why does my dog snort like a pig? This harmless reaction is due to mild irritation of the nasal passage or inspiratory paroxysmal respiration. If your dog sneezes or snorts every time you are close by, there can be something irritating on you. However, if your dog’s snoring doesn’t stop, you may want to call the vet.

Rare cases of reverse sneezing or snorting can be due to foreign objects stuck inside the dog’s nose.

Thank you for reading!