Puppy breathing spasm - snorting

[colesys]

My 5 month old puppy (long haired chihuahua and maltese cross) has had three or four episodes of what I can only describe as a breathing spasm. She starts sort of snorting and making a funny noise. This has only lasted a few seconds with each episode but last night when it happened her back legs went a bit wobbly. Its only happened a few times but I'm obviously a bit concerned. She has a vets appointment due at the end of the week and I was going to ask the vet when I see them but was wondering if anyone else has a dog that does this and if so what could be the cause? Is this a common occurance in dogs? A friend of mine said that her dog often does the same thing.
I would be grateful for any advice.

[Lorrymac]

Hi, I have a beagle puppy and every now and again she does the same thing. it's not so much recently, but when she was younger it happened a lot. it concerned me but i've never had a dog before, but my partner who's always lived with dogs always laughed about it and said it was normal and that it was just her getting a bit worked up. Not sure if this helps, it's certainly worth asking your vet when you're there but i would try not to worry in the meantime.

[colesys]

Thanks very much! When it happened last night she was a bit worked up (my husband was eating pizza and she wanted some!). Its really worrying isn't it! I'll mention it to the vets but wont worry so much anymore.

Thanks

[lankeela]

I think its doing something which we call 'reverse sneezing'. If you hold your hand over the nose the dog will have to breathe through its mouth and it will sort of swallow and stop snorting.

[lankeela]

It could also be a soft palate problem, your vet will check and advise.

[emuchops]

I have 4 dogs and they all do it from time to time but the very first time it happened it was really worrying...i think its just something that dogs do

[icemaiden]

A vet friend of mine told me that it is when a dogs palatte and larynx becomes too relaxed causing the snorting noise.
My dog used to do it often and I believe some breeds are more prone to it than others.

Would be interested to know what your vet says.
Keep us posted please.

[colesys]

I'll check with the vet and let you all know.

Thanks for your kind advice!