Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups? How to Help Your Puppy with Hiccups

Can dogs have hiccups?

Yes, dogs can get hiccups just like humans do. Hiccups happen when a muscle in your dog's chest suddenly squeezes tight, this pulls air into their body very quickly. At the same time, part of their throat closes quickly and makes the "hic" sound. Fortunately, dog hiccups are usually harmless and go away on their own.

What does a dog hiccup look like?

You'll know your dog has hiccups when you see quick, jerky movements in their chest or tummy. The movements repeat in a regular pattern and you'll also hear a clear "hic" sound, very similar to a human hiccup. Your dog will usually stay quite calm during a case of hiccups.

Is it normal for puppies to get hiccups?

Yes, absolutely. Nearly all puppies will get hiccups at some point, and they’re much more likely to get them than adult dogs. Puppies can even get hiccups before they're born, whilst in their mother's womb! 

Puppies get hiccups more because their muscles aren't yet fully developed. They also have a tendency to eat and drink too quickly and get excited or worried more easily than adult dogs too. So, as your puppy grows and matures, it’s likely that hiccups will happen less often.

Why does my puppy keep getting hiccups?

The most common reasons dogs get hiccups are:

• Eating or drinking too quickly: When your dog gulps down food or water quickly, they swallow lots of air. This can upset the diaphragm and cause hiccups.
• Excitement or stress: When dogs get excited during playtime or feels worried, their breathing changes. These quick changes can lead to hiccups.
• Being too cold: Sudden temperature changes can affect your dog's diaphragm. Some dogs get hiccups after drinking very cold water or being outside in cold weather.
• Hard exercise: After a particularly intense playtime, your dog might pant heavily. This fast breathing can lead to hiccups.

How to stop dog hiccups

Hiccups usually go away on their own within a few minutes. But if you'd like to help clear them faster, you can try these gentle methods: 

• Offer water: Give your dog some water to drink slowly. This can help calm their diaphragm.
• Calm them down: If excitement caused the hiccups, help your dog relax with gentle stroking or a soothing snuggle.
• Try a gentle walk: Sometimes light exercise can distract your dog and reset their breathing.
• Give a belly rub: Gently rubbing your dog's tummy might help relax their diaphragm.
• Change their position: If your dog is standing, ask them to sit or lie down. Sometimes changing position helps to stop hiccups.

Important: Never try human “hiccup curing” tricks, like attempting to scare your dog or making them hold their breath. These methods are dangerous and likely to cause distress.

How to prevent dog hiccups 

You can't stop all hiccups, but these tips can help to prevent them:

• Use a slow-feeder bowl if your dog eats too quickly 
• Keep mealtimes calm to avoid your dog rushing their food/water 
• Don't give your dog very cold water straight from the fridge 
• Let your dog rest after exercise before giving them food or water 
• Keep your dog’s space calm and quiet

When to worry about dog hiccups

Hiccups are usually nothing to worry about. But call your vet if:

• Hiccups last more than an hour 
• Hiccups happen very often 
• Your dog seems upset or in pain 
• You notice other signs like coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, being sick or not eating 
• The hiccup sound changes to wheezing

In rare cases, hiccups that won't stop can be a sign of other health problems, so it's best to get them checked if you're worried.