It is very common for puppies — up to about six months old — to get hiccups. They are growing quickly, which can be a cause.

It is less common for adult dogs to get hiccups but it definitely happens. Dogs who eat too fast or gulp water can get hiccups, but hiccups can also be a sign of stress or occur when the dog eats something that “doesn’t agree with” him.

So, what do you do?

Saying “BOO!” does not work. I’ve tried it. I don’t think that getting the dog to breathe into a paper bag works either, though I have not tried that.

Giving the dog a drink or a small treat might work. Try some water with a teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar mixed in; it is supposed to work for our hiccups too. Or try waiting a few minutes. The hiccups don’t usually last for long.

If your dog has hiccups that do last for longer than a half-hour or so, or your dog gets  hiccups frequently, talk to your vet about it. Sometimes — rarely — hiccups can be a sign of something more serious.