Can Dogs Get Hiccups? Causes, Treatment, and When to Worry

Can Dogs Get Hiccups?

As a dog owner, you’ve likely witnessed your furry companion making strange noises or movements from time to time. One phenomenon that might catch you by surprise is dog hiccups. Yes, just like humans, dogs can and do get hiccups! These involuntary contractions of the diaphragm are not only common but completely normal in most cases. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a massive Great Dane, all dogs can experience hiccups at some point in their lives.

Hiccups in dogs occur when their diaphragm—the dome-shaped muscle separating the chest from the abdomen—experiences involuntary spasms or contractions. These contractions cause a quick inhalation of air, which is then suddenly interrupted when the glottis (the opening between the vocal cords) snaps shut, producing that characteristic ‘hic’ sound we associate with hiccups.

While hiccups in adult dogs are relatively uncommon, puppies are particularly prone to them. Puppies tend to be more excitable, eat and drink faster, and have more sensitive diaphragms that are still developing, making them prime candidates for hiccupping episodes.

What Causes Hiccups in Dogs?

Understanding why your dog gets hiccups can help you prevent them and determine if they’re just a harmless occurrence or potentially something more serious. Here are the most common causes of hiccups in dogs:

Eating or Drinking Too Quickly

One of the primary causes of dog hiccups is rapid consumption of food or water. When your dog gulps down their meal or water too enthusiastically, they often swallow excess air along with it. This phenomenon, known as aerophagia, causes stomach distention and irritates the diaphragm, triggering it to spasm. Puppies are especially prone to this as they tend to be overly excited about mealtime.

Excitement

Dogs, particularly puppies, can get hiccups when they become overly excited. During periods of excitement, a dog’s breathing pattern changes, and they may inhale more air than usual. This excitement-induced change in breathing can lead to diaphragm spasms and hiccups. You might notice this happening during playtime or when visitors arrive at your home.

Temperature Changes

Sudden exposure to cold temperatures can trigger hiccups in dogs. Whether it’s drinking very cold water, eating frozen treats, or simply being outside in chilly weather, the cold can affect the diaphragm and cause it to spasm. This is why some dogs may develop hiccups after enjoying an ice cube or spending time outside during winter months.

Fatigue

Tired puppies are more prone to hiccups. When your puppy is exhausted after a long play session or a busy day, their body might react with hiccups. This is typically harmless and often resolves once they’ve had a chance to rest.

Stress and Anxiety

Just like in humans, stress can manifest physically in dogs, sometimes in the form of hiccups. When dogs are anxious or stressed, their breathing patterns can change, potentially leading to diaphragm spasms. Creating a calm environment for your dog can help reduce stress-induced hiccups.

Vigorous Play or Exercise

Active play or exercise can lead to heavy breathing or panting in dogs. This rapid breathing can sometimes trigger hiccups, especially if your dog is overexerting themselves. Ensuring your dog takes breaks during intense play sessions can help prevent this.

Swallowing Air

Dogs sometimes swallow air during various activities like barking, playing, or even when they’re nervous. This excess air can irritate the diaphragm and lead to hiccups. Breeds with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds) may be more prone to swallowing air due to their unique airway structure.

Dietary Factors

Certain foods, especially those that are spicy or unusual for your dog, can cause irritation in the digestive system. This irritation can sometimes affect the diaphragm, leading to hiccups. Capsaicin, found in spicy foods, can stimulate nerve activity in the diaphragm, causing contractions that result in hiccupping.

Are Dog Hiccups Normal?

In most cases, hiccups in dogs are completely normal and harmless—just a minor inconvenience rather than a serious health concern. They typically last for only a few minutes and resolve on their own without any intervention. Puppies are especially prone to hiccups and tend to outgrow them as they mature.

However, while occasional hiccups are normal, there are circumstances where they might indicate an underlying issue. Hiccups that occur frequently, last for extended periods (more than a few hours), or are accompanied by other symptoms might warrant a closer look.

How to Help a Dog with Hiccups

While most hiccupping episodes in dogs resolve spontaneously, there are several gentle and safe methods you can try to help your furry friend find relief faster:

Slow Down Mealtime

If your dog tends to eat or drink too quickly, consider using a slow-feeder bowl designed to prevent rapid consumption. These specially designed dishes have built-in obstacles that force your pet to eat around them, effectively slowing down their eating pace. For water consumption, you can try a floating object (like a clean ping pong ball) in their water bowl to slow their drinking.

Offer Water

A few sips of water can sometimes help interrupt the hiccup cycle. Ensure the water is at room temperature, as very cold water might actually trigger hiccups rather than relieve them. Always have fresh water available for your dog, especially after eating or vigorous play.

Gentle Belly Rubs

Light massage or gentle belly rubs can help relax your dog’s diaphragm, potentially stopping the hiccups. This also has the added benefit of calming your dog, which is helpful if excitement or stress is contributing to the hiccups. Most dogs enjoy this attention, making it a pleasant experience for both of you.

Distraction Techniques

Sometimes, simply distracting your dog can help stop hiccups. Try engaging them in a different activity, offering a favorite toy, or practicing some basic commands. This shifts their focus and can change their breathing pattern, potentially interrupting the hiccup cycle.

Light Exercise

A short, gentle walk or play session might help regulate your dog’s breathing and stop the hiccups. However, avoid intense exercise, as this can actually make hiccups worse if your dog starts panting heavily. The goal is to normalize their breathing pattern, not intensify it.

Create a Calm Environment

If excitement seems to be triggering your dog’s hiccups, try creating a calmer environment. Speak in soothing tones, dim the lights if possible, and minimize stimulating activities until the hiccups subside. This can be particularly effective for puppies who get overly excited easily.

When to Be Concerned About Dog Hiccups

While most cases of hiccups in dogs are harmless and resolve quickly on their own, there are situations where they might indicate a more serious underlying condition. Being aware of these warning signs can help you determine when it’s time to consult your veterinarian:

Prolonged Hiccup Episodes

If your dog’s hiccups persist for more than a few hours or recur frequently throughout the day, this could indicate an underlying issue. Normal hiccups typically last just a few minutes and occur occasionally, not continuously or repeatedly.

Accompanying Symptoms

Be particularly concerned if hiccups are accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Difficulty breathing or respiratory distress
• Coughing or reverse sneezing
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Drooling more than usual
• Signs of pain or discomfort

These additional symptoms could indicate that the hiccups are related to a more serious condition such as respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues, or even heart disease.

Change in Hiccup Sound

If your dog’s hiccups sound different than usual—perhaps more strained, painful, or accompanied by wheezing or gasping—this could indicate a respiratory issue that requires veterinary attention. Normal hiccups should sound like quick, rhythmic, and relatively gentle ‘hic’ sounds.

Medical Conditions That Can Cause Hiccups

In rare cases, hiccups can be related to underlying medical conditions, including:

• Respiratory issues like asthma or kennel cough
• Pneumonia
• Heart disease
• Heatstroke
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Central nervous system disorders

If you suspect your dog’s hiccups might be related to any of these conditions, especially if they’re showing other symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian promptly.

Preventing Hiccups in Dogs

While you can’t prevent all hiccup episodes, there are several strategies you can implement to reduce their frequency:

Proper Feeding Practices

One of the most effective ways to prevent hiccups is to address eating and drinking habits:

• Use slow-feeder bowls or puzzle feeders to prevent gulping food
• Feed smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large meal
• Ensure water is always available at room temperature
• Elevate food and water bowls for some dogs (especially larger breeds) to promote better posture while eating
• Allow for a calm environment during mealtimes, free from distractions or competition from other pets

Regular Exercise

Proper exercise helps maintain overall health and can regulate breathing patterns, potentially reducing the likelihood of hiccups. Ensure your dog gets appropriate daily exercise for their breed, age, and health status, but be careful not to overexert them, as heavy panting can sometimes trigger hiccups.

Stress Management

Since stress and excitement can trigger hiccups, helping your dog manage these emotions can be beneficial:

• Establish consistent daily routines
• Provide a quiet space where your dog can retreat when overwhelmed
• Use calming aids like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps when necessary
• Practice relaxation techniques and reward calm behavior

Temperature Considerations

Being mindful of temperature can also help prevent hiccups:

• Avoid giving very cold water or treats, especially after exercise
• Ensure your dog has appropriate shelter and protection from extreme temperatures
• Allow time for adjustment when moving between significantly different temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Hiccups

Q: Are hiccups more common in puppies than adult dogs?

A: Yes, puppies are much more prone to hiccups than adult dogs. This is because puppies tend to be more excitable, have higher energy levels, and are still developing their diaphragm control. Most puppies outgrow frequent hiccups as they mature.

Q: How long should dog hiccups typically last?

A: Normal hiccup episodes in dogs typically last only a few minutes, rarely more than 10-15 minutes. If your dog’s hiccups persist for more than an hour or recur frequently throughout the day, it might be worth consulting with your veterinarian.

Q: Can certain dog breeds be more prone to hiccups?

A: While any dog can get hiccups, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers may be more susceptible due to their unique airway anatomy. These breeds tend to swallow more air during normal activities, which can increase their likelihood of developing hiccups.

Q: Can I give my dog human hiccup remedies?

A: No, you should never give your dog human medications or remedies for hiccups without veterinary guidance. Many human treatments can be harmful to dogs. Stick to the safe, dog-appropriate methods discussed in this article, such as slow feeding, gentle belly rubs, and distraction techniques.

Q: Do dog hiccups sound the same as human hiccups?

A: Dog hiccups can sound similar to human hiccups, but they might be quicker, softer, or have a slightly different tone. In some cases, especially with smaller dogs, the sound might be subtle enough that you notice the rhythmic movement of their body more than you hear the actual ‘hic’ sound.

Understanding dog hiccups is an important part of responsible pet ownership. While usually harmless, being able to recognize when hiccups might signal something more serious can ensure your furry friend stays healthy and comfortable. By implementing preventive measures and knowing when to seek veterinary advice, you can help your dog navigate these peculiar but typically benign episodes.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

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