If you are the owner of a new puppy, you may notice that your puppy is hiccuping frequently. Some new puppy parents may be concerned about this, but it is generally not a cause for alarm. Hiccups in puppies are, for the most part, normal. The only time to be worried is if the puppy is bringing up food with her hiccups. There are many reasons for hiccups in puppies, most of which are normal parts of the puppy's life.
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Diaphram Contractions
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The basic reason for hiccups is a spontaneous contraction of the diaphragm. The diaphragm contracts each time we inhale. If the diaphragm contracts at an unusual time, this often results in a hiccup.
Excitement
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One of the most common causes of hiccups in puppies is over-excitement. This could be due to the fact that when puppies are excited, their breathing patterns change, resulting in hiccups. Puppies are very happy and excited creatures in general, so hiccups come with the territory.
Drinking or Eating Too Fast
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It is common for humans to get hiccups from consuming beverages too quickly. Similarly, when puppies eat or drink enthusiastically, they can also develop hiccups. Again, this is due to diaphragm contractions, most likely caused by the fact that a puppy may not breathe normally while devouring food or slurping down water.
Stress or Anxiety
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In some cases, puppies may get hiccups because of high amounts of stress or anxiety. Similar to the way a puppy's breathing changes when he gets excited, his breathing can change when he feels anxious as well. If you notice your puppy has hiccups and also seems distressed, you may want to hold her and talk calmly in order to soothe her anxiety.
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