Just as in humans, it is always easier to treat a medical problem with your dog if you catch it earlier rather than later. This is true for chronic nasal congestion. There are several possible causes for this condition. It is important to determine the cause so your dog's nasal congestion can be treated early to avoid more serious health problems later.
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The Facts
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Infrequent sneezing in your dog is not something to be concerned over. All dogs sneeze once in a while. If your dog has chronic nasal congestion that reappears again and again, though, pay attention to his symptoms. Nasal congestion and sneezing can be caused by allergies, fungal infections and bacterial infections. If left untreated, chronic nasal congestion can lead to other health problems.
Allergies
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Chronic nasal congestion in dogs can be triggered by allergies. Your dog might be allergic to something in his environment, including outside sources of allergens such as pollens or inside sources such as chemicals used for cleaning. Your dog can experience watering eyes, nasal congestion and sneezing as symptoms of an allergic reaction. Removing the source of the allergen will bring relief to your dog. Your veterinarian can suggest medication such as antihistamines that can help relieve his symptoms.
Fungal Infection
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Most dogs naturally have some bacterial and fungal cells in their respiratory tract. Dogs, especially when they are younger, can contract fungal infections that cause chronic nasal congestion. If your dog has a fungal infection, she will experience nasal discharge and sneezing. Your veterinarian can determine which fungus is causing the problem and prescribe treatment. Once the fungal infection has been treated, the nasal congestion will clear.
Bacterial Infection
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Bacterial infections can cause chronic nasal disease in dogs and one of the main symptoms of this is nasal congestion. If your dog develops chronic nasal disease, then periods of stress can trigger nasal congestion and sneezing that will return again and again. To avoid the risk of chronic nasal disease, take your dog to the veterinarian. She can prescribe antibiotics to combat the infection.
Considerations
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When chronic nasal congestion in a dog is left untreated, it can lead to other health problems. Nasal congestion can lead to inflamed nasal passages that can be painful for your dog. It can also damage the nasal passages. That damage can interfere with your dog's ability to smell that can, in turn, cause loss of appetite and serious weight loss. To avoid more serious health problems in the future, nasal congestion should be treated promptly.
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