Why Does My Puppy Get Hiccups?
A puppy with hiccups might be the cutest thing in the world, but it can also confuse you and your dog.
Have you ever wondered why your puppy gets hiccups?
Let’s take a look at why they get them and a few ways you can help.
Hiccup Theory
Hiccups occur from the area between the chest and the stomach which is called the diaphragm. All Mammals have a diaphragm, and this organ plays a very important part in breathing.
A hiccup is the involuntary sensation of repeated sudden movement or convulsion of the diaphragm which causes your vocal cords to suddenly close which results in the ‘hic’ sound.
It is normal and natural for a puppy to hiccup providing that it doesn’t last too long and isn’t alongside other concerning health symptoms such as dribbling, coughing, aggressive swallowing, or sluggishness.
Why Do Puppies Get Hiccups?
Hiccups can occur when your puppy has eaten or drank something too fast and has inhaled some extra air in the process.
They can also occur when your puppy’s diet needs to be changed. The diet could be causing some irritation and isn’t agreeing with them.
If your puppy is feeling stressed, anxious, or even tired this could be a reason for the hiccups to attack.
Reverse hiccups are also a thing in puppies when they breathe and cough loudly through the nose.
This could be from excitement, however, if it happens a lot, this could be a sign of a more serious illness. A trip to the vet would be advised if your furry friend is showing signs of this.
It has been found that hiccups can help your puppy with such things as easing gas and stomach aches. Puppies are more likely to have hiccups more often as their organs and digestive system are still growing and developing.
Ways You Can Help Your Puppy if They Get Hiccups
1. Try to encourage your puppy to drink some water. This might soothe the irritation and should reduce the volume of hiccups at the very least.
2. Whilst stroking the area where the diaphragm will be, add some light pressure. This could help with the contractions and make them more comfortable for your buddy.
3. Extra stokes and telling your dog that everything will be ok in a soft tone will reassure your pup that there is noting to worry about.
4. Reduce the portion size of food. Smaller portions more often in the day should help with reducing the amount of air they take in when eating.
5. Try to avoid dog food containing grains such as wheat and corn. Low-grain foods have less air and gas in them.
6. Try to lie your dog on their back whilst rubbing his belly. This should regulate their breathing pattern and reduce the hiccups overall.
When to See the Vet if Your Puppy has Hiccups
Puppy hiccups are usually harmless and nothing to worry about. In rare instances, they can signal other health issues. We recommend contacting your vet if:
The hiccups last longer than a few hours
Your puppy seems in pain
Your puppy is not drinking or eating
Your puppy is showing signs of breathing problems, coughing, sneezing or a runny nose
Your puppy keeps getting hiccups (several times a day)
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