My Border Terrier eats grass, but when he tries to be sick, he starts to pass out as if he can't take in oxygen. We are scared to leave him on his own now, because when this does happen we have to grab him to keep him upright. He has already been to the vets who checked his bloods,etc before removing rotten teeth. I explained the symptoms and was told because of the rooten teeth at the back the dog was taking spasms and blocking his airways but will be OK now. This in fact has not solved the problem as it is still happening after having the teeth extracted. Can you hel[p.

I have heard of inverse breathing but know little about it. I know it can be caused by sinus problems, cardiac problems.

I am hoping someone who knows comes along, because I would like to learn, too.

Perhaps you should seek a second opinion.
Near syncopal episodes may be due to cardiac or respiratory problems.
It sounds as if for some reason he is not getting the oxygen he's needing.
Does he do anything else strange like cough or tire easily?

Perhaps you should seek a second opinion.
Near syncopal episodes may be due to cardiac or respiratory problems.
It sounds as if for some reason he is not getting the oxygen he's needing.
Does he do anything else strange like cough or tire easily?


Have you heard of inverse breathing? As it happens the dog I know about lived to be 13 and had these episodes her whole life. The "why" part has always concerned me.

Inverse breathing I think is how some refer to a reverse sneeze.
My little dog does this often It looks a little like this.

Reverse Sneeze in a dog - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3L4v0W2_Sw&feature=related)

It can be caused by a post nasal drip like we get during allergy season.
Sort of like a tickle in the throat.

I just had another thought.
Poor dental health can lead to heart disease due to the bacteria entering into the blood stream.
If I were not getting the answers I needed at my vet, (and I am certainly not doubting your vets' ability) I always have the option to seek another opinion.
I don't know that it is a necessity, only you know for sure what your dog is doing at this point.
But if his behavior is alarming to you then I would surely investigate further.