What does dog hiccups look like?

Dog hiccups are similar to human hiccups in action and sound; it is a normal physiological reaction, usually to expel excess gas from the upper digestive tract and keep the airway clear. Generally, dog hiccups are brief, ending after a few sounds, and do not affect health.

However, if a dog hiccups frequently or for a long time, it may be caused by improper diet, eating too fast, allergies, upper respiratory infection, or diaphragm spasm. The owner should watch for other reactions such as appetite changes, vomiting, and coughing to detect potential health problems early. If severe, consult a vet.