Can My Dog Get Hiccups?
If you start to hear what sounds like hiccups coming from your dog, you’re probably beginning to wonder if dogs can get hiccups. The notion of dogs hiccuping is somehow adorable, might it also be cause for concern? We have everything you need to know about your dog’s hiccups.
What Are Dog Hiccups?
Just like us, dog hiccups are caused by uncontrollable spasms of the diaphragm. While this sounds scary, it’s actually not so bad! Hiccups should go away soon, so don’t worry about them too much. Your diaphragm is a muscle that contracts to pull air down into your lungs, and it has the same effect for your dog. The diaphragm can become out of synch with your glottis, which is what causes hiccups. After some time of breathing normally, your dog’s diaphragm will restore to its natural rhythm, and the hiccups will be dispelled.
Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups?
No one is quite sure what increases the frequency of hiccups, or what a hiccup really is, but there are a few factors that contribute to hiccups. First and foremost, age can impact the frequency of hiccups in dogs. Hiccups are most common in puppies up until age 8 to 12 months. Puppies can even get hiccups in the womb, which means that hiccuping might lead to lung growth and development. Stress, fatigue, and excitement can also lead to hiccups in your dog. Finally, eating or drinking too quickly can cause hiccups because your dog ingests air while eating.
What to Do About Dog Hiccups
Usually, you don’t have to worry too much about your dog’s hiccups. Hiccups usually go away in just a few minutes. However, if your dog regularly gets hiccups, you may consider stepping in or talking to your vet. The first thing you can do to get rid of your dog’s hiccups is simply wait. Secondly, you can give them some food or water to help alleviate the hiccups. Be sure to pace them while they are eating, or the hiccups may worsen. You may also consider getting a slow-feed bowl for your dog. This will slow them down while they’re eating and make sure that they aren’t ingesting too much air while they scarf down their food. Finally, exercise is a great remedy for hiccups. Changing your dog’s breathing and heart rate can very quickly get rid of the hiccups.
Dog hiccups are nothing to worry about! Be patient and help calm your dog down if they seem distressed by the odd noises they’re making. If you become concerned, contact your vet for help.