Top 3 Reasons Why Your Dog Keeps Swallowing and Having Hiccups

Underlying health problems, especially those in the digestive system, may explain dogs that keep swallowing and having hiccups. Here are the most common reasons that may explain the behavior.

1. Issues with acid reflux

Your dog might be swallowing excessively because he is trying to resist the urge to vomit. This vomit might be a result of acid reflux. It’s possible that the dog is suffering from chronic acid reflux if the swallowing and hiccups have been going on for quite some time. It’s important for this to be treated quickly. Acid reflux can eventually lead to serious health conditions like esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

2. Something stuck in the airway

Dogs may have constant hiccups if there is something stuck in their airway. The dog is in distressed. The constant swallowing might also be a dog’s attempt to dislodge whatever is stuck in the dog’s mouth or, in some cases the esophagus. This might happen if a dog accidentally eats a non-food item or eats a large food without giving it a proper chew. Check the dog’s mouth to see if anything is stuck.

3. Dog ate too quickly

Hiccups and constant swallowing may also occur if your dog has a tendency to eat food too quickly. You might only notice the hiccups every time your dog eats or drinks. Eating too quickly may cause havoc in the dog’s stomach. It could also lead to dangerous conditions like bloat. It’s important to take your dog to the vet if the swallowing and hiccups happen for an extended period of time. It would also be recommended to get some form of slow feeder so you dog isn’t drinking or eating too quickly.