Why Does My Dog Keep Getting Hiccups? Causes & Solutions

Hiccups in dogs can be quite endearing and sometimes puzzling, especially when your dog seems surprised by the sudden spasms. While many dogs experience hiccups occasionally, puppies are particularly prone to them.

If your dog is getting hiccups frequently or experiencing prolonged bouts, exploring the reasons behind this can help you understand and manage the condition better.

In this guide, we'll explain what dog hiccups are, common causes your pup might be experiencing, and when you should consult your vet to ensure your dog's health and happiness.

What Are Hiccups?

Hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, the muscle that helps your dog breathe. During a hiccup, the diaphragm contracts suddenly, causing your dog's vocal cords to close briefly and produce the characteristic "hic" sound.

Dogs may hiccup once or several times in a row, with a fairly regular rhythm. Because hiccuping is involuntary, dogs often appear confused or startled by the sensation.

1. Excitement and Playfulness

Much like human children, puppies are more prone to getting hiccups, often triggered by their high energy and excitement. Whether your dog is anticipating a treat, playing with a favourite toy, or eager to meet another dog, these moments of enthusiasm can bring on hiccups.

Excitement increases your dog's breathing and heart rate, which can lead to diaphragm spasms and hiccups. This is common and generally harmless.

2. Stress and Anxiety

Stressful situations cause physical changes in your dog's body—like increased heart rate and shallow breathing—which can trigger hiccups. If your dog gets hiccups during new experiences, vet visits, or loud noise events, stress may be the culprit.

Hiccups caused by stress can add to your dog's discomfort, so helping your dog relax through calm reassurance or familiar routines can be beneficial.

3. Fear or Nervousness

Fear and nervousness often bring about subtle physical reactions similar to stress. Dogs that are anxious in specific situations may experience hiccups as part of their response.

4. Eating Too Quickly or Gulping Air

Many dogs scarf down their meals without much thought, swallowing air in the process. Eating too fast or ingesting foods that ferment or produce gas can irritate the diaphragm, resulting in hiccups.

You can slow your dog's eating by placing obstacles like a safe ball in their food bowl or dividing meals into smaller portions administered throughout the day. This also reduces the risk of more serious conditions such as bloat, especially in large, deep-chested breeds like the Great Dane puppies.

5. Air in the Stomach

Rapid eating can cause excess air to accumulate in the stomach, leading to discomfort and hiccups through diaphragm irritation.

Slowing eating habits not only reduces hiccups but also lowers the risk of bloat, a potentially life-threatening emergency in certain breeds.

6. Environmental Irritants

Exposure to smoke, strong perfumes, or other irritants can cause your dog's diaphragm to spasm, triggering hiccups.

7. More Serious Health Conditions

While rare, persistent hiccups may indicate underlying health problems such as respiratory diseases like asthma or pneumonia, or heat stroke, particularly in brachycephalic breeds with short noses.

If hiccups are frequent, long-lasting, or accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, changes in behaviour, coughing, or lethargy, seeking veterinary advice promptly is important.

When to Contact Your Vet

If your dog's hiccups suddenly become frequent or prolonged, or you notice other health changes, consult your vet. Early evaluation can reassure you and help rule out serious conditions.

Remember, most hiccups are harmless and resolve quickly, but responsible pet ownership means monitoring your dog closely and seeking professional advice when needed.