What Are Dogs Hiccups Causes? How To Get Rid Of Dogs Hiccups?

August 2, 2011 | Dog Health | Leave a Comment |

Dogs’ Hiccups Causes

Dogs experience hiccups from time to time. This can be very irritating for both the owner and the dog. Hiccups are more common on puppies, and as they grow older, they outgrow it. Here are some of the reasons why dogs and puppies experience hiccups:

  • Too much air in the stomach. Hiccups are the natural way of the body to get rid of too much air in the stomach. The diaphragm contracts involuntarily, expelling small, random amounts of air out from the stomach.
  • Eating and drinking too fast. When dogs and puppies are given treats, they excitedly drink and eat them. Rapid gulping can increase gas volume in the stomach.
  • Age. Young puppies are more prone to hiccups compared to older dogs. This has something to do with the rapid development of the puppy’s body.
  • Ingestion of spicy foods. Just like humans, dogs’ diaphragm gets irritated when they ingest spicy foods. The irritation can cause the diaphragm to contract involuntarily, resulting to bouts of hiccups.
  • Nervousness, stress and even excitement. These three can cause a dog to experience hiccups. Changes in the environment are usually the cause of this emotional range in dogs.
  • Respiratory defects. Pneumonia, asthma and other respiratory problems can cause hiccups. Bouts of hiccups are too frequent and are longer than usual. If hiccups last for more than half an hour, then it is best to bring the dog to its veterinarian.
  • Hypothermia. When the weather is cold and the dog’s body temperature falls below its normal body temperature, then expect the dog to have hiccups.

How to Get Rid of Dogs’ Hiccups

The best way to get rid of hiccups is to avoid hiccups from happening. Hiccups in dogs come and go naturally. It usually lasts for only just a few minutes. However, dogs get irritated when they have hiccups. Here are some tips on how to calm down a dog with hiccups and get rid of hiccups:

 

  • Do not starve a dog. Starving would make a dog very excited upon seeing food and it will rapidly finish it.
  • Avoid feeding dogs with spicy foods. Spicy foods can irritate the diaphragm, triggering it to contract uncontrollably.
  • Calm the dog. Spending time with the dog can help the dog forget about his hiccups.
  • Give them water. Water can help the dog calm down and prevent irritations in the esophagus.
  • Exercise. Take the walk to a hike or jog with the dog. Physical exercise can help the dog expel gases from its stomach.
  • Keep the dog warm. It is important to keep the dog warm; hypothermia does not only cause hiccups but it can also cause other physiological problems.
Related Posts:

Speak Your Mind