Does This Strange Thing Ever Happen to Your Dog?

I'm not sure if I should be worried or not, but I start feeling stress everytime my dog, Frisco, starts doing this.

The vet says it's allergies and it's a common thing in dogs. I am hoping she's right.

When it's happening, it sounds like Frisco is gasping for breath, but I don't really think that is the case. It seems sort of like a hiccup, but it sounds like air is going in.  Clinch your teeth and take quick breaths through your mouth. That's what it sounds like.

The vet likened it to a reverse sneeze, which apparently is  a common thing with dogs.

This doesn't happen every single day, but when it does it's usually anywhere between one and three times. (at least that I'm aware of) Sometimes it happens right in middle of the night. These, "breathing fits' I call them, can last anywhere from a couple of minutes to four or five minutes. All I can do is provide comfort and love.

Frisco turns 12 this year, but remains extremely healthy and active. She still gets excited when I mention going for a ride in the truck or a run in the park. Frisco is like a mature puppy. She's excitable, but also happy and content to lay quietly and contently next to you wherever you happen to be.

So, while Frisco is doing quite well for her age, this one thing has me a bit worried.

Like I said, I hope my vet, who didn't seem overly concerned about it, is right. But, I am curious to know if any other dog owners are experiencing this. If you have seen this with your dog, I would love to hear about your experience, and what you did, if anything, to help.