How to Get Rid of Dog Hiccups: A Comprehensive Guide (2025)

When my French Bulldog, Milo, started hiccuping after gobbling his dinner in our Texas kitchen, I was amused but concerned. My vet, Dr. Carter, assured me most dog hiccups are harmless and shared safe ways to stop them. This guide combines my experience with Milo and Dr. Carter’s expertise to help US pet owners in places like Seattle or Florida manage dog hiccups effectively. Most cases resolve naturally, but persistent hiccups need veterinary attention.

What Are Dog Hiccups?

Dog hiccups are involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, the muscle separating the chest and abdomen that aids breathing [1]. Dr. Carter explains:

• Mechanism: A diaphragm spasm causes a quick inhale, and the glottis (vocal cords) closes, producing a “hic” sound [1].
• Frequency: Common in puppies due to their excitable nature; less frequent in adults [2].
• Similar Conditions: Reverse sneezing (rapid nasal inhales) is often mistaken for hiccups [1].

Milo’s hiccups were short bursts after meals, Dr. Carter confirmed as normal [1].

Causes of Dog Hiccups

Dr. Carter identifies common triggers [1][2]:

• Excitement or Stress: Playtime or new environments cause rapid breathing, irritating the diaphragm [1].
• Fast Eating/Drinking: Gulping food or water traps air, triggering spasms [2].
• Fatigue: Yawning or overexertion can disrupt breathing patterns [1].
• Dietary Irritants: Spicy or rich foods may cause gas, irritating the diaphragm [2].
• Medical Issues: Rarely, hiccups signal respiratory issues (e.g., bronchitis), gastrointestinal reflux, or tumors [1].

Milo’s hiccups often followed excited play with a Kong toy, Dr. Carter noted [1].

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Dr. Carter advises a vet visit if [1][2]:

• Hiccups last over 60 minutes or recur frequently [1].
• Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, sneezing, or breathing difficulties [2].
• Hiccups occur on hot days, potentially indicating heatstroke, especially in short-nosed breeds [1].
• Other signs like lethargy or appetite loss appear [2].

Vets may use blood tests or imaging to rule out underlying issues like pneumonia or asthma [1]. The ASPCA recommends VCA Hospitals for thorough evaluations [3].

How to Get Rid of Dog Hiccups

Dr. Carter’s vet-approved strategies [1][2]:

1. Calm Your Dog:
   • Gently rub the belly or chest to relax the diaphragm; keep sessions calm and brief (5–10 minutes) [1].
   • Use soothing tones to reduce stress [2].
2. Offer Water:
   • Provide small sips of room-temperature water (not cold) to normalize breathing [1].
   • Use a bowl (e.g., Outward Hound) to prevent gulping [2].
3. Use a Slow Feeder:
   • Feed with a slow feeder (e.g., Outward Hound Fun Feeder) to reduce air intake [1].
   • Spread meals into smaller portions to slow eating [2].
4. Light Exercise:
   • Take a short, calm walk (5–10 minutes) with a leash (e.g., Coastal Pet) to regulate breathing [1].
   • Avoid vigorous play, which may worsen spasms [2].
5. Distraction:
   • Engage with a gentle toy (e.g., Kong Classic) to shift focus and calm breathing [1].
   • Avoid sugary additives like honey, which may upset digestion [2].

Milo’s hiccups stopped after a belly rub and slow feeder use, per Dr. Carter [1].

Breed-Specific Hiccup Risks

This table outlines hiccup risks for select breeds, based on veterinary data [1][2].

Note: Risk (1–10) reflects likelihood; considerations guide management.

Things to Avoid When Managing Hiccups

Dr. Carter warns against [1][2]:

• Cold Water: May shock the system, worsening spasms [1].
• Sugary Additives: Honey or sugar substitutes (e.g., avoid xylitol, toxic to dogs) risk digestive upset [2].
• Spicy Foods: Can irritate the stomach, increasing hiccups [1].
• Overexertion: Vigorous exercise may stress breathing further [2].
• Ignoring Symptoms: Persistent hiccups need vet evaluation for underlying issues [1].

Preventing Dog Hiccups

Dr. Carter’s prevention tips [1][2]:

• Slow Feeding: Use slow feeders (e.g., Outward Hound) to pace meals [1].
• Calm Environment: Reduce excitement with calm play (e.g., Kong toy) [2].
• Balanced Diet: Feed high-quality food (e.g., Hill’s Science Diet) without spicy or rich ingredients [1].
• Regular Vet Checks: Screen for respiratory or digestive issues annually [2].
• Heat Management: Keep short-nosed breeds cool with fans (e.g., Honeywell) on hot days [1].

Milo’s hiccups reduced with a Fun Feeder and calmer playtime, Dr. Carter noted [1].

FAQs

• Are dog hiccups normal? Yes, especially in puppies; most resolve in minutes [1].
• Can hiccups indicate serious issues? Rarely, if persistent or paired with breathing problems; see a vet [2].
• Do certain breeds hiccup more? Short-nosed breeds like French Bulldogs are more prone [1].

Key Takeaways

• Identify Hiccups: Recognize diaphragm spasms from rapid breathing or gulping.
• Manage Safely: Use belly rubs, slow feeders, or light walks.
• Avoid Risks: Skip cold water, sugary additives, or spicy foods.
• Consult a Vet: Seek help for prolonged or symptomatic hiccups.

Final Thoughts

Milo’s hiccup episodes in our Texas home were manageable with Dr. Carter’s guidance. These steps work for any US pet owner, from Seattle apartments to Florida suburbs. Shop Outward Hound, Coastal Pet, or Hill’s Science Diet at Walmart or PetSmart, and consult your vet or an ASPCA-affiliated clinic to keep your dog hiccup-free and healthy.

References:

1. VCA Hospitals, “Canine Hiccups and Respiratory Health”.
2. Rover, “Dog Behavior and Health Issues”.
3. ASPCA, “Pet Wellness and Veterinary Care”.