Understanding What Causes Hiccups in Dogs
Dogs get hiccups just like people do. If you've ever noticed your pup making a funny 'hic' sound with a little body jerk, you're witnessing a classic case of canine hiccups. Let's dive into why this happens and what you can do about it.
The Science Behind Dog Hiccups
At the root of every hiccup is the diaphragm, a muscle that sits beneath the lungs and plays a crucial role in breathing. When this muscle suddenly contracts (or spasms), it forces your dog to take a quick breath. At the same time, the glottis—the opening between the vocal cords—snaps shut, creating that unmistakable 'hic' sound.
These involuntary contractions are generally harmless and usually disappear within minutes. Hiccups look and sound much like they do in humans: short, rhythmic noises paired with minor jerky movements of the chest or body.
Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups?
Dogs of all ages and breeds can get hiccups, but they're especially common in puppies. That's because puppies have developing muscles and digestive systems and tend to eat, drink, and play with more gusto than adults.
- Eating or drinking too quickly: Swallowing air while gulping food or water is a top trigger.
- Overeating: A full stomach can irritate the diaphragm.
- Sudden temperature changes: Getting cold quickly may set off spasms.
- Excitement, tiredness, or stress: Emotional states can influence breathing patterns.
- Eager play or overexertion: High activity right after meals sometimes leads to hiccups.
- Certain foods or rapid dietary changes: Stomach irritation from new treats or spicy foods can be a culprit.
- Irritants like smoke or strong odors: These can affect sensitive airways and trigger spasms.
Certain breeds—especially those with short muzzles such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Boxers—may be more prone to hiccups due to their unique anatomy affecting airflow.
How to Help Your Dog During Hiccups
The good news is that most dog hiccup episodes don't need any special treatment. Still, you can try some gentle measures to help your dog feel better:
- Belly rubs or gentle massage: This helps them relax and breathe steadily.
- A small drink of water: Offer water slowly so they don't gulp more air.
- Delay feeding if they're hiccuping: Wait until the episode passes before giving food.
- Puzzle feeders or slow bowls: These encourage slower eating habits for future meals.
- Feed smaller portions more frequently: This reduces the chance of overeating and swallowing air.
- Create a calm mealtime environment: Less excitement means less risk of hiccups.
A few owners offer their dogs a small spoonful of honey (ensure it's free from additives like xylitol) to soothe throat irritation—though this isn't necessary for most cases. Avoid old myths like scaring your dog, pulling their tongue, or putting fingers in their ears; these approaches can cause harm or stress without helping at all.
When Should You Worry About Dog Hiccups?
The vast majority of canine hiccups are brief and harmless. However, you should contact your veterinarian if any of these occur:
- The hiccups last several hours or happen very frequently
- Your dog seems distressed, lethargic, or in pain during episodes
- You notice vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, coughing, wheezing, sneezing, trouble swallowing, appetite changes, or breathing difficulties along with hiccups
- Your dog has other persistent health issues (like signs of infection or worms)
(Rarely) Persistent hiccups could signal an underlying medical issue such as gastrointestinal disease, respiratory problems (like pneumonia or bronchitis), nervous system disorders, heart disease, heatstroke, tumors, asthma, or parasitic infections. If home remedies don't work and symptoms persist—or if other abnormal signs appear—a veterinary check-up is wise.
Tips for Preventing Dog Hiccups
- Feed smaller meals more often instead of one large meal
- Use slow feeders to prevent gulping food and water
- Avoid sudden changes in diet; steer clear of spicy/irritating foods
- Create calm environments during feeding times
- Let your dog rest after eating before starting playtime
- Puppies should follow proper worming schedules for good digestive health
Puppies often outgrow frequent hiccups as they mature. Still—even adult dogs might get them from time to time. In almost every case though? Hiccups are just another quirky part of being a dog—and they'll pass before you know it!
