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Why is my dog always congested, sneezing, and rubbing his nose?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rhodesian Ridgeback | Male | neutered | 1 year and 5 months old | 60 lbs

My dog seems like he's congested. I feel like he's always been this way since we adopted him. I see him sometimes rubbing his snout like it's itching, and he seems to sneeze, or something similar to it, kind of a lot. He also breaths like he's trying to clear out his nose sometimes. One vet I talked to prescribed him medicine for a cough, and another vet I took him to never noticed, and I forgot to mention it while there. I'm just really unsure what to do. Should I be concerned?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 20, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Gambit!

I would have him rechecked and discuss if allergies are a possibility. The vet can try some prescription antihistamines like hydroxyzine or Temaril P. I doubt it's an infection with out mucopurulent nasal discharge. Since he's had these symptoms since you got him I doubt it's life threatening but likely uncomfortable for him.

I hope this helps and i wish Gambit the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Darvishian
Veterinarian
Published on October 14, 2017
Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear that Wallace is having this problem. I usually give this advice to my clients- if something persists, worsens, or other signs develop, then it's best to seek advice from your veterinarian. You probably can just monitor this because it doesn't sound like it's really affecting him at this time. But, if he develops a nasal discharge, discharge from his eyes, a cough, lots of sneezing, decreased appetite or other signs, then I would advise that your vet check Wallace out. So I would just advise monitoring the situation and see how it develops. It is possible that something in the air is bothering him since we are still in a peak time for allergies in both humans and pets. Good luck with Wallace.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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