Accidental Inhalation

Dogs can inhale any number of substances indoors, such as loose powder, dust, black pepper, cleaning products or any other chemical or substance found in the home. Dogs are exposed to many allergens outdoors, which can cause irritation of the sinuses and lungs. They can inhale small matter like grass seed and pollen. These substances can cause irritation of the nasal passages and lungs, leading to infection.

Symptoms of Nasal Irritation

Symptoms of substances inhaled into the nasal passages include sneezing, watering eyes, face rubbing and labored breathing. Cleaning chemicals, like chlorine bleach, can cause irritation of the nasal passages and esophagus. Take the dog out into the fresh air and allow the house to air out before bringing him back inside. Inhaled allergens also can cause irritation of nasal passages. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian to determine if something is lodged in the nasal passages that needs removal or if antihistamine medication is required.

Symptoms of Airway Obstruction

Airway obstruction is a much more serious problem. Irritation of the lungs can cause damage to lung tissues and can lead to infection, a condition called aspiration pneumonia. Inhaled foreign objects can cause coughing, wheezing, swallowing difficulties, discharge from nasal passages, rapid breathing, blue skin color and weakness, according to the PetMD website. See your veterinarian immediately if your dog suffers any of these symptoms.

Consulting Your Veterinarian

If you detect any problems with your dog's breathing, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. Foreign objects can become lodged in the airway, obstructing breathing and leaving your dog open to infection and serious lung problems. If the object appears to be something dodged in the nasal passages, your dog may be able to sneeze it out without assistance. If the sneezing continues unabated, however, take your dog in for an examination. Your vet may be able to extract small objects with the proper instruments in his office. X-rays of the sinuses and lungs may be necessary to determine the location of the object. Blood tests will detect infection within the dog’s body. Surgery may be necessary to remove foreign objects.