Dog Behaviour: Fake Sneezing
Have you ever had your dog come up to you and just sort of sneeze at you? Have you noticed your dog sneeze during play time? This isn’t really sneezing, but more of a fake sneeze.
So, why do dogs fake sneeze? Well, there are a few reasons and situations, but it’s all a form of communication!
Attention
Your pooch may make eye contact and sneeze at you if they want your attention – maybe for a fuss, to be let out, for food… basically, it’s your dog saying, “Look at me – I want something.”
My German Shepherd Dog (GSD), if ignored, will often follow this up with a paw on you or with a louder vocalisation!
Your pooch may sneeze multiple times if ignored or, like Brina (my GSD), do something that’s harder to ignore!
During Play
Amidst the barking and growling and other playful noises, dogs sneeze during play to indicate that they are only playing! This can also indicate your dog is having fun!
This type of fake sneeze is often referred to as a play sneeze. This seems to come from just the nose, as opposed to the lungs.
Whether playing nicely inside or rough-housing in the garden; you will always hear play sneezes from my two!
Happiness/ Contentment
Dogs fake sneeze to express happiness or contentment in a situation – being fussed, out for a walk, playing (as noted above), etc.
For example, my Lurcher (Rollo) will fake sneeze when he’s getting good belly/ chest scratch and fuss; indicating his enjoyment.
My GSD can be heard making contented sneezes occasionally when she’s eating – particularly when she’s enjoying finding her biscuits in her snuffle mat!
All images are either open source, Google images, or my own – or photos donated for use by the pet owners.
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