If your dog is experiencing hiccups and drooling at the same time, it’s natural to feel concerned. These signs might seem harmless individually, but when they occur together, they could indicate something more serious.
We outline the potential causes of dog hiccups and drooling, what they mean for your pet’s health, and when you should take action.
Why Dog Hiccups and Drooling Happen
Dog hiccups and drooling often occur due to mild, temporary issues like excitement, eating or drinking too quickly, or stress, but they can also signal underlying health problems.
Hiccups are caused by involuntary diaphragm spasms, which are common in puppies but can affect adult dogs too. Excessive drooling, or hypersalivation, may result from nausea, dental disease, heatstroke, or the ingestion of toxins.
While occasional hiccups and drool are usually harmless, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, oral infections, or neurological conditions and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Dog Hiccups and Drooling – What It Looks Like
You might notice your dog making rhythmic sounds or slight jumps when they have hiccups. These are usually short-lived but can be unsettling if they persist.
Dog drooling, also called ptyalism, becomes a concern when it’s excessive, uncontrolled, or accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty swallowing.
Common signs of dog hiccups and drooling include:
Repetitive diaphragm spasms
Mouth constantly wet or dripping
Licking lips frequently
Swallowing excessively
Coughing or wheezing with hiccups
Lethargy or changes in behavior
If these symptoms are prolonged or worsen over time, they could indicate a deeper issue that needs veterinary evaluation
Possible Causes of Dog Hiccups and Drooling
1. Eating Too Fast or Swallowing Air
One of the most common causes of hiccups in dogs is eating too quickly.
When a dog gulps down their food, they may also swallow air, which can lead to hiccups.
At the same time, the anticipation and excitement of food can stimulate salivation, leading to dog drooling.
How this affects your dog:
The air trapped in the stomach can irritate the diaphragm and cause spasms.
Saliva production increases during feeding, especially with dry kibble or strong-smelling foods.
Use slow-feeding bowls or puzzle feeders to help your dog eat more slowly, which can reduce both hiccups and drooling during mealtime.
Related: Dog hiccups and shaking (Explained)
2. Gastrointestinal Irritation or Upset Stomach
If your dog is experiencing an upset stomach or acid reflux, it could trigger both hiccups and drooling.
The gastrointestinal tract plays a central role in these symptoms because discomfort can lead to excessive salivation and involuntary spasms of the diaphragm.
Signs to look out for:
Lip smacking
Drooling before or after meals
Burping or vomiting
Reluctance to eat
Why this happens: Acid reflux or bloating may irritate the esophagus or stomach, causing both drooling and hiccup-like reflexes as the body attempts to manage discomfort.
Consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding fatty or spicy foods. If the symptoms persist, a vet may prescribe medication to manage acid reflux.
3. Foreign Object in the Mouth or Throat
A lodged object, such as a piece of bone, stick, or toy, can cause both excessive drooling and a hiccup-like response.
This is due to irritation or blockage in the throat or esophagus.
Symptoms include:
Pawing at the mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Gagging or coughing
Hiccups accompanied by distress or whining
What to do: Examine your dog’s mouth carefully (if safe to do so) and contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has swallowed or choked on something.
4. Stress or Anxiety
Just like people, dogs can physically react to stress. Hiccups and drooling in dogs can occur as a result of heightened anxiety.
Whether from loud noises, separation, or unfamiliar environments, a dog under stress may display physical symptoms that include panting, hiccuping, and salivating excessively.
How stress causes this:
Stress hormones increase respiratory rate, which can irritate the diaphragm and cause hiccups.
Anxiety can also increase saliva production, especially during car rides or vet visits.
Signs of anxiety include:
Pacing or hiding
Excessive barking
Yawning, lip licking
Trembling
What to do: Create a calm environment, offer comfort items (like a blanket or toy), and consider anxiety-reducing techniques or supplements if the behavior is frequent.
Related: Do hiccups and licking (Explained)
5. Oral or Dental Issues
Dental disease, mouth ulcers, and infected gums can lead to excessive drooling.
At the same time, the discomfort or pain in the mouth can make your dog anxious or cause them to swallow frequently, which may trigger hiccups.
Dental-related symptoms:
Foul breath
Dropping food from the mouth
Bleeding gums
Reluctance to chew
Why this happens: Inflammation or infections in the mouth stimulate salivary glands. Repeated swallowing may irritate the diaphragm and result in hiccups.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and maintain a dental hygiene routine at home with vet-approved toothpaste and chews.
Related: Dog hiccups and eating grass (Explained)
6. Neurological or Systemic Issues
In some cases, hiccups and drooling can be signs of neurological conditions or systemic diseases such as liver problems, toxin ingestion, or seizures. These are more serious and require immediate veterinary attention.
Red flags include:
Uncoordinated movements
Muscle twitching
Confusion or disorientation
Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
How this connects: Neurological problems may interfere with muscle control, including those controlling swallowing and breathing.
Likewise, organ dysfunction can lead to nausea and excess salivation.
Immediate action is needed: If your dog’s hiccups and drooling are accompanied by other alarming symptoms, don’t wait—seek veterinary help immediately.
When Should You See a Vet?
While dog hiccups and drooling might not always indicate something serious, there are situations where you should get professional help right away.
See your vet if:
The symptoms last more than a few hours
There is vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
Your dog is refusing food or water
You suspect your dog swallowed something harmful
Hiccups are frequent and affect sleep or breathing
Puppies and senior dogs are more vulnerable, so even minor symptoms should be monitored closely in these age groups.
How to Help Your Dog at Home
If your dog’s hiccups and drooling aren’t caused by a serious issue, you can take some simple steps to ease their discomfort:
Encourage calm behavior: Excitement and stress worsen both hiccups and drooling.
Offer cool water: This may soothe the throat and help calm hiccups.
Try a gentle walk: Light activity can help normalize breathing and diaphragm movement.
Feed bland food: A mix of boiled chicken and rice can soothe an upset stomach.
Use puzzle feeders: This slows down fast eaters and reduces air swallowing.
Key Takeaway: Dog Hiccups and Drooling
Dog hiccups and drooling can be harmless, especially if they’re occasional.
However, when these symptoms occur together frequently or alongside other signs like vomiting, gagging, or lethargy, it may point to an underlying problem that needs veterinary care.
Whether it’s caused by diet, stress, dental issues, or a more serious medical condition, identifying the cause of your dog’s hiccups and drooling is the first step to helping them feel better.
If your dog is frequently hiccuping and drooling, consult your veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
With the right care, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.