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Why does my dog have hiccups sporadically, not just after eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Why would Kyro , a 2 1/2 year old Pit/Lab mix have occassional sporadic hiccups even when it's not after feeding? Everybody here has been great answering my questions about my first dog. Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2018

Hello. Hiccups are the result of a spasm in the diaphragm. It can occur from various maladies including heartworm disease, stimulation of the phrenic nerve & cancer ( very unlikely in such a young dog ). This may also be a case of Synchronous Diaphragmatic Flutter, also known as Thumps. I would talk with your veterinarian to see if an EKG & blood work is needed. Otherwise, some of these dogs will respond to a tapering dose of Prednisone, &/or an oral calcium tablet. Sometimes, it just eventually goes away by itself. Just to make sure, have your vet take a look at things. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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