maltese poodle (toy)

Question
DeeDee is a black maltese poodle just turned 3 years of age and at times has a very dry nose but for the last 3 days it has seemed a bit runny then today she had violent sneezing which would not stop it continued for most of the day stressing her as it was so strong her head was wrenching severly with each sneeze - I wanted to know what it is and how can I help her - she eats only fresh food she will not eat any kind of processed or dog food prefering raw meats - drinks only water and no human sweets or snacks - she lives inside with run of the yard and is not desexed - the only other pet in the home is a cockatiel parrot - can you hepl please - regards Dot

Answer
If the discharge from her nose is clear, then I wouldn't worry about it too much and if she keeps sneezing you can give her about a half a benadryl, but that will make her sleepy and its only to make her more comfortable.  Its possible that something in the air is irritating her nose making her sneeze, maybe even an allergy.  It may go away on its own, but if she develops yellow or green discharge, starts sounding congested, loses her appetite or otherwise changes her behavior I would definitely take her to the vet since she may have picked up something.

Amanda