Are hiccups a problem for your dog? Causes and care

Hiccups are small, involuntary spasms of the diaphragm muscle that can affect many mammals, including dogs and people. While it may seem amusing to see your dog get the hiccups, especially puppies, hiccups are actually quite common and generally harmless.

This article explains why dogs get hiccups, what causes them, and how to respond so you can be confident if your dog starts hiccupping.

Why do dogs get the hiccups?

Dogs hiccup due to spasms of the diaphragm muscle, which plays a vital role in breathing. When this muscle twitches suddenly, air is rapidly drawn into the lungs, hitting the vocal cords and causing the classic "hic" sound.

Puppies are especially prone to hiccups, just as human babies often are, mainly because they tend to be more excitable and gulp air more readily when eating or playing.

Some breeds such as the Australian cattle dog and Sprocker spaniel puppies (a cross involving the Springer spaniel) are known for higher energy and excitability, which may make them more apt to hiccupping bouts.

Common causes of hiccups in dogs

• Eating or drinking too quickly, leading to swallowing excess air
• Excitement or stress, which can trigger diaphragm spasms
• Sudden temperature changes or cold exposure, contributing to body temperature drops
• Inhaling irritants such as tobacco smoke or spicy foods
• In certain brachycephalic breeds (for example, Pugs or Bulldogs), anatomical features can increase hiccup episodes due to airway sensitivity

When are hiccups a cause for concern?

Most hiccup episodes resolve on their own within minutes and are harmless. However, persistent or chronic hiccups lasting longer than half an hour warrant a veterinary check-up to rule out underlying health problems.

In rare cases, hiccups may signal respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma, or other more serious issues such as pericarditis or hypothermia. Additional symptoms to watch for include coughing, lethargy, vomiting, or changes in breathing.

How to help your dog with hiccups

Usually, no treatment is necessary for hiccups. However, if your dog is bothered or the hiccups last longer, you can try gentle home remedies, always with your vet's approval:

• Offer your dog water to sip naturally; do not force drinking. Adding a small amount of honey or maple syrup may soothe the throat.
• Gently massage the chest area near the diaphragm to help relax the muscle.
• Distract or surprise your dog with their favourite toy or a squeaky noise to interrupt the hiccup reflex.

If your dog's hiccups persist beyond 30 minutes or occur frequently without obvious cause, consult your vet. In rare instances, medication or surgery may be needed to address diaphragm nerve issues.

Preventing hiccups in your dog

To reduce likelihood of hiccups, provide smaller, frequent meals to slow eating, keep your dog calm during feeding times, and protect them from cold and irritants. Responsible ownership includes observing your dog's behaviour carefully and seeking veterinary advice when needed.

Summary

Hiccups in dogs, especially puppies, are common and usually harmless muscle spasms of the diaphragm. They often resolve without intervention and are linked to excitement, eating speed, or mild irritants.

Persistent or severe hiccups accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a health problem requiring veterinary care. With warm care and attention, most dogs recover quickly from hiccups, so there is little need to worry.