Hic! If your puppy’s little body jumps with every breath, you’re probably watching a case of the hiccups. Can dogs get hiccups just like people? Yes — and puppies get them a lot.
Quick answer: Yes, dogs can get hiccups. They happen when the diaphragm, the muscle under the lungs, contracts suddenly and the vocal cords snap shut, making a ‘hic’ sound. Hiccups are most common in puppies and are usually triggered by eating or drinking too fast, excitement or swallowing air. They’re harmless and usually stop within minutes. Hiccups that last hours or come with breathing trouble, vomiting or wheezing should be checked by a vet.
Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups?
- Eating or drinking too fast: gulping brings in extra air.
- Excitement and play: fast breathing can irritate the diaphragm.
- Stress: nervous dogs may swallow more air.
- Being a puppy: young dogs’ muscles and nerves are still developing, so hiccups are very common.
- Temperature changes: some dogs hiccup after very cold water or food.
Can Puppies Get Hiccups More Often?
Yes. Most dogs hiccup far more as puppies than as adults. Some experts even think hiccups may help young animals exercise the breathing muscles. Puppy hiccups usually fade as they grow.
Hiccups vs. Reverse Sneezing vs. Coughing
| What you see | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Rhythmic ‘hic’ with a small body jump, mouth closed | Hiccups |
| Loud snorting honks pulling air in through the nose | Reverse sneezing |
| Harsh honk or hack, sometimes with gagging | Coughing — see a vet if it continues |
| Wheezing or effort to breathe | Breathing problem — see a vet |
Not sure about the honking kind? Read why dogs sneeze to learn about reverse sneezing.
How to Help Your Dog’s Hiccups Stop
- Wait it out. Most hiccups stop within a few minutes.
- Calm things down. Gentle belly or chest rubs and a quiet place help slow breathing.
- Offer a little water. Slow sips may reset the rhythm.
- Gentle walk. Light movement can change their breathing pattern.
- Slow down meals. Use a slow feeder or puzzle bowl if your dog gulps food.
Never try to ‘scare’ hiccups away or give human remedies like sugar or vinegar.
When Hiccups Could Be a Problem
Hiccups are rarely serious. Call your vet if they last more than a few hours, happen very often in an adult dog, or come with vomiting, drooling, coughing, wheezing, a reduced appetite or tiredness. In rare cases, ongoing hiccups can be linked to stomach, respiratory or other health issues.
The Bottom Line
Dog hiccups look silly but are almost always harmless, especially in puppies. Slow down mealtime, keep things calm, and they’ll usually pass on their own.
Related: Why Do Dogs Pant? and our dog behavior guide.
Helpful Resources
Trusted, official websites for dog owners (no affiliate links):
- Outward Hound (official site) — slow feeder bowls for dogs that eat too fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hiccups bad for dogs?
Usually not. They’re common and stop on their own, especially in puppies.
How long do dog hiccups last?
Most episodes last a few minutes. If they last for hours, contact your vet.
Why does my puppy get hiccups after eating?
Puppies often eat quickly and swallow air, which irritates the diaphragm. A slow feeder can help.
Can dogs get hiccups in their sleep?
Yes, it can happen and is usually harmless.
Sources
- American Kennel Club — Can Dogs Get Hiccups?
- Pumpkin Pet Insurance — Can Dogs Get Hiccups?
- Kinship — Puppy Hiccups
Hi, I’m Ethan — a lifelong dog lover who has always been fascinated by the strange, funny and sweet things dogs do. At Bark Wisdom, I dig into the “why” behind everyday dog behavior, researching every article using veterinary and animal-behavior sources so you can understand your dog a little better. I’m not a veterinarian, so for any health concern, always talk to your vet.