Hiccup! Why does my puppy or dog get them?

Hiccups are usually harmless and are rarely serious. Basically, the source is spasms of the diaphragm. This can be caused by excitement, eating too fast, irritants, or stress.

Puppies that hiccup usually do so first thing in the morning after waking up, after a nap, after eating, or after being overly excited. Some puppies can even hiccup in their sleep!

Hiccup Fonts

Hiccups are so common; some vets think they may be part of the long list of “growing pains” some puppies must endure during the process of physical and mental maturation. In general, the episodes begin to decrease as they age and disappear completely when the puppy is between 8 months and 1 year old.

Other vets claim that it is a vestigial reflex that many puppies have from their days in the womb. It was a way for them to exercise their lungs and strengthen their esophagus muscles, while literally being “underwater.” Most puppies stop once their lungs adjust to oxygen and a drier environment.

There is no reason to worry if the hiccups last less than an hour. If they continue for longer or are chronic, it is suggested to consult with your veterinarian. Sometimes hiccups, when combined with other symptoms, can be a symptom of heart disease, hypothermia, asthma, or other respiratory illnesses.

Treatments for hiccups

As a general rule, it is best to do nothing. Oftentimes, the stress their humans exhibit only exacerbates the pup’s anxiety. However, some find it hard to do nothing when they feel like their pet is in trouble.

The goal is simply to change your puppy’s breathing rate.

This can be done by distracting them and giving them something else to focus on. Offering a ball or squeaking a toy can be enough of an interruption for most to breathe normally again.

Offering a treat, food, or water can also help change their breathing pattern.

Others find that exercising and playing with their pet helps not only their pet, it helps calm them down too!

If excitement is the trigger for your pup’s hiccups, try to tone it down a bit. Massaging your pup instead of inciting more excitement can help him relax and start breathing normally.

There are medications your vet can recommend if the problem persists. They will help relax the muscles of the diaphragm.

In extreme cases where there may be a physical abnormality, surgery is an option.

In short: stay calm. Hiccups are usually as normal for your puppy or dog as it is for you.