Puppy Hiccups: They’re Adorable, but Here’s How to Get Rid of Them

Is there anything cuter than a puppy? With their tiny paws, wagging tails, and big eyes, puppies have a way of melting even the toughest hearts. But as cute as they are, puppies can also experience some less-than-adorable moments, like hiccups.

While it may seem harmless and even endearing, puppy hiccups can actually be uncomfortable for your furry friend. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some tips on how to get rid of those pesky hiccups. From making sure they stay hydrated to changing feeding patterns, soon you’ll know how to handle anything that comes your way when it comes to your pup.

Why Do Puppies Get Hiccups?

Puppies are just like us in many ways, including getting hiccups. Hiccups occur when the diaphragm, a muscle located between the chest and abdomen, contracts involuntarily. This causes the vocal cords to close, producing the characteristic “hic” sound. In puppies, things like eating too quickly, excitement or stress, or even temperature changes can trigger hiccups. They are also common in younger puppies as their bodies are still developing and adjusting to different sensations.

Are Puppy Hiccups Harmful?

For the most part, puppy hiccups are harmless and will go away on their own. However, if your puppy is experiencing frequent or prolonged hiccups, it could be a sign of an underlying issue such as gastrointestinal discomfort or respiratory problems. If you notice this, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian for further advice.

Tips to Help Get Rid of Puppy Hiccups

If your puppy is experiencing hiccups, there are a few things you can do to help get rid of them:

• Feed slowly: As mentioned earlier, eating too quickly can be a common cause of hiccups in puppies. To avoid this, try slowing down your pup’s eating by using a slow-feeder dog bowl or by simply feeding smaller meals throughout the day.
• Distract them: Sometimes, just like with humans, distraction can help stop hiccups. You can try playing with your puppy or giving them a puzzle toy to take their mind off of the hiccups.
• Change their environment: If changes in temperature are causing your pup’s hiccups, try adjusting their environment to make them more comfortable. This could mean moving them to a warmer or cooler room, depending on what they prefer.
• Give them water: Just like with humans, drinking water can help get rid of hiccups. You can try giving your puppy a small amount of water to see if it helps.
• Gently rub their belly: Massaging your puppy’s belly can help relax their diaphragm and stop hiccups. Use gentle circular motions and see if it helps calm them down.

Preventing Puppy Hiccups

While hiccups are usually nothing to worry about, they can still be uncomfortable for your puppy. Here are a few tips to help prevent them from happening in the first place:

• Feed smaller meals: Since eating too quickly can lead to hiccups, feeding your puppy smaller meals throughout the day can prevent overloading their digestive system and reduce the likelihood of hiccups.
• Use a lick mat for dogs: A lick mat is a textured mat that you can spread with treats or peanut butter. It encourages dogs to lick and work for their food, slowing down their eating and promoting relaxation.
• Encourage calmness: Excitement or stress can trigger hiccups in puppies. Try to create a calm and peaceful environment for your puppy, especially during meals.
• Keep them hydrated: As mentioned earlier, drinking water can help get rid of hiccups. Make sure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration.

Final Note!

While puppy hiccups may be adorable, they can also be uncomfortable for your furry friend. By understanding the causes and implementing some of these tips, you can help get rid of those pesky hiccups and ensure your puppy’s comfort and well-being. Remember, if hiccups persist or seem to be causing distress for your puppy, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance. So, next time your pup gets the hiccups, try out these tips and see which ones work best to help get rid of them.