How to Cure Dog Hiccups

Dogs can get hiccups.

The short answer to how to cure your dog's hiccups is that you can't. Dog hiccups are similar to hiccups in humans and we can all remember trying different techniques as a child to cure our hiccups and usually having little success. Sometimes it is possible to stop hiccups, at least for humans. Hiccup cures for dogs are similar but it may be more difficult to get your dog to cooperate. The other part of the answer is not to worry about it. Hiccups are more annoying than anything else. Dog hiccups are very common and this all the more so with puppies. Hiccups are caused when the rhythm of the breathing process is interrupted. A hiccup is a spasm that pulls air our into the lungs. This can be due to a number of reasons such as drinking or eating too quickly, nervousness or a sudden fright. The basic strategy to cure hiccups is to give the diaphragm a forced rest and synchronize the breathing process.

Instructions

1. Talk your dog for a vigorous walk or run. The goal is to change your dog's breathing pattern so that the diaphragm will relax. Run with your dog doing quick stops and starts. The diaphragm will relax when it is starved for oxygen.

2. Give your dog a treat and something to drink. The act of eating and drinking may also alter her breathing pattern and help the diaphragm to relax.

3. Help your dog to relax. One of the causes of hiccups is stress. If she enjoys baths, give her a nice slow bath. Sit and pet her and help her feel at ease.

4. Try to startle her. Different shock techniques work for some people and maybe it will for your dog as well. The element of surprise may help change her breathing patten.

5. Relax and don't worry. If the remedies don't cure her hiccups, then wait and see if they go away on their own. If not, then take her to the veterinarian.

References

• Made Your Hiccups: Dog Hiccups
• Dog Channel: Dog Hiccups Are Self-Curing