Dog Hiccups: What You Need to Know

Hiccups are a common occurrence for both humans and animals, including our dogs. While they’re usually harmless, many pet owners wonder what causes them and whether they should be concerned. Hiccups in dogs are similar to human hiccups, as both are caused by involuntary diaphragm spasms. In this post, we’ll explore the causes, implications, and solutions for dog hiccups, ensuring you have all the information you need to care for your pet when this happens.

written by

Barbara Perez

Source: PetMD

What Are Dog Hiccups?

Hiccups in dogs occur when the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen) involuntarily contracts. These diaphragm spasms cause the vocal cords to close suddenly, producing the familiar “hic” sound. Though often overlooked, hiccups are a normal reflex and are usually short-lived.

Common Causes of Dog Hiccups

There are several reasons why a dog might experience hiccups, and understanding these can help you manage the situation:

Eating or Drinking Too Quickly: Dogs that gulp their food or water too fast can swallow air, which may lead to hiccups. This is particularly common when a dog is very hungry or excited.
Excitement or Stress: High energy levels, excitement, or anxiety can trigger hiccups. This could happen during playtime, car rides, or encounters with new people or animals.
Cold Air or Sudden Temperature Changes: Hiccups may also occur when a dog experiences a sudden temperature change. This can happen after going outside in cold weather. Drinking very cold water can also trigger hiccups in some dogs.
Exercise and Activity: After intense physical activity, dogs may get hiccups due to exertion, just like humans. Incorporating dog training tips like positive reinforcement can help maintain their well-being.
Puppies and Hiccups: Puppies, especially younger ones, seem to experience hiccups more often. Their bodies are still developing, and hiccups are part of their natural growth process.
Brachycephalic breeds: Dog breeds with short noses and flat faces, like Bulldog, Pugs, and French Bulldog, may be more prone to hiccups because their breathing can be affected by their short airways.
Gas or Upset Stomach: One theory is that hiccups are your puppy’s way of relieving gas or soothing an upset stomach.

Are Dog Hiccups Dangerous?

In most cases, dog hiccups are completely harmless and don’t indicate any underlying health issues. They are usually short-lived and resolve on their own. However, there are some exceptions:

If your dog’s hiccups last more than an hour or are accompanied by vomiting, gagging, or a change in their breathing pattern, it could indicate a serious issue. Contact a veterinarian if this happens.
Hiccups combined with lethargy, lack of appetite, or unusual behavior could point to gastrointestinal or respiratory problems that need veterinary attention.

Can Puppies Get Hiccups?

Yes, hiccups are common in puppies. Just like adult dogs, puppies may experience hiccups for several reasons, such as excitement, eating too quickly, or the natural development of their digestive systems. Because puppies are still growing, their bodies are more prone to hiccups as they adjust to new experiences.

In most cases, puppy hiccups are harmless and will go away on their own. Additionally, following a puppy vaccine schedule is essential to ensure your puppy stays protected against common diseases.

However, if your puppy’s hiccups are persistent or come with other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.

How to Get Rid of Dog Hiccups

While most hiccups will go away on their own, you can try a few methods to help calm your dog:

Gently encourage your dog to take a short walk to distract them and possibly stop the hiccup cycle.
Offer small amounts of water to help soothe the diaphragm and hydrate your dog.
Calm your dog: If excitement or stress is the cause, help your dog relax by creating a calm and quiet environment.
Massage your dog’s chest or belly gently: This may help relieve the spasm and reduce the hiccups.
If your dog is eating or drinking, either remove the dog bowl or take them away from the food or water. You can also try offering smaller portions to help prevent hiccups.

Prevention Tips for Dog Hiccups

While you can’t always prevent hiccups from happening, there are a few strategies to reduce their frequency:

Feed smaller meals more frequently: Instead of one large meal, try giving your dog smaller, more frequent meals to prevent gulping and swallowing air.
Use slow feeders: Special bowls designed to slow down eating can help your dog take their time while eating, reducing the likelihood of hiccups.
Keep your dog calm: If excitement triggers hiccups, try to maintain a calm and relaxed environment, especially during high-energy activities.
Avoid sudden temperature changes: Gradually adjust to colder or hotter environments, and be mindful of how your dog reacts to temperature shifts.

When to See a Vet

In rare cases, hiccups can be a symptom of a more serious condition. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to consult your veterinarian:

Persistent hiccups lasting over an hour or recurring frequently.
Hiccups and vomiting, coughing, gagging, or difficulty breathing.
Your dog appears distressed, lethargic, or refuses to eat or drink.
Changes in your dog’s behavior or appetite alongside hiccups.

A veterinarian will be able to assess your dog’s health and determine if there is an underlying medical issue that needs to be addressed.

Hiccups include a series of sudden and involuntary diaphragm contractions. If your dog has hiccups while sleeping, it’s likely due to relaxed muscles and should resolve on its own without intervention.

However, if your dog experiences persistent hiccups or shows signs of illness, it’s always best to seek professional veterinary advice.

Key Takeaways

Hiccups are usually harmless: In most cases, dog hiccups are a normal occurrence caused by factors like excitement, eating too quickly, or temperature changes.

Monitor your dog's behavior: Dog hiccups and licking lips may be a sign of mild discomfort or anxiety.

Puppies and hiccups: Puppies are more likely to experience hiccups due to their developing digestive systems, but these are typically not a cause for concern.

Persistent hiccups may indicate a problem: If your dog’s hiccups last more than an hour or are accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, or gagging, contact a veterinarian.

Feed smaller portions: Offering smaller meals throughout the day can help prevent rapid eating, reducing the chance of hiccups.

Use slow feeders: Special dog bowls designed to slow down eating can help your dog take their time, minimizing the risk of hiccups.

What to Do if Your Dog Has Hiccups?

Help your dog’s breathing pattern become more consistent and rhythmic by encouraging calmness and relaxation. You can achieve this by offering a short walk or creating a quiet environment. If the hiccups persist or worsen, consult a veterinarian.

What Can Be Mistaken for Dog Hiccups?

Other conditions or behaviors can sometimes be mistaken for hiccups, such as:

Coughing: Dogs may cough due to respiratory issues, which could resemble hiccups.
Reverse sneezing: This occurs when a dog rapidly inhales through their nose, often triggered by excitement or allergens, and can sound similar to hiccups.
Gagging: This may occur due to a throat issue or something stuck in the throat, which can also mimic hiccups.

What Do Hiccups on a Dog Look Like?

Hiccups in dogs appear as irregular breaths, often accompanied by a “hic-cup” sound. You may notice jerking movements in the dog's chest or abdomen, which happen due to spasms in the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen.

How Do I Know if My Dog Has Hiccups or Is Choking?

To tell if your dog has hiccups or is choking, look for signs like pawing at the mouth, frantic pacing, or uncoordinated movements, which suggest choking. If your dog isn't making any noise, they may have a blockage. Hold them upright, check their mouth, and gently compress the abdomen. If the symptoms persist, seek emergency veterinary care.

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Barbara Perez

Barbara Perez is the Lead Pet Expert and an avid animal advocate at ThePetWorld.org, bringing over a decade of experience in pet care, training, and animal welfare. With a deep passion for improving the lives of pets and their owners, Barbara combines expert knowledge with a heartfelt commitment to educating and empowering pet lovers everywhere. Whether it's through her insightful articles or hands-on advice, she is dedicated to fostering a stronger bond between humans and their furry companions, one wagging tail at a time.