Why Does My Dog Hiccup In His Sleep? | Ask a Vet

This is one of the most common questions our vets get asked.

Short answer: In most cases, sleep hiccups are completely normal — but there are a few signs worth watching for.

Here's the 4 most common reasons

and when to call your vet.

#1 - They're Dreaming (REM Sleep)

Just like humans, dogs cycle through REM sleep, the deepest, dream-filled stage.

During REM, the brain is highly active. You'll often see:

Twitching paws or "paddling" legs
Ear and whisker movement
Soft whimpers or barks
Diaphragm spasms (aka hiccups)

Verdict: Totally normal. They're probably chasing something fun.

#2 - They're a Puppy

Puppies hiccup a lot more than adult dogs — sometimes several times a day.

Their diaphragms are still developing, and their excitement levels (and eating speed) don't help.

Verdict: Completely normal. Most dogs grow out of it by 12 months.

View Recommended Puppy Beds

#3 - They Ate or Drank Too Quickly Before Bed

A big meal or fast water glug right before sleep means your dog swallowed air along with it.

That trapped air irritates the diaphragm — and when they lie down to sleep, it escapes as hiccups.

Verdict: Harmless. Try feeding 30–60 minutes before bedtime.

#4 - Their Bed Isn't Supporting Them Properly

This is the one most owners miss.

Dogs that can't get comfortable shift position constantly through the night. That restless tossing, combined with shallow breathing on hard or flat surfaces, can trigger diaphragm spasms and hiccupping fits.

You'll often see it alongside:

Frequent repositioning overnight
Sleeping in odd, contorted shapes
Waking up stiff

A properly supportive bed solves this by letting your dog settle into deep, uninterrupted REM — which is when they should be hiccupping peacefully, not restlessly.

See Vet Recommended Deep Sleep Bed

🚨 When to Call Your Vet

Most sleep hiccups are nothing to worry about. But book a check-up if you notice:

Hiccup episodes lasting longer than an hour
Difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing
Constant pacing or restlessness overnight
Hiccups paired with loss of appetite or lethargy

Older dogs, larger breeds, and dogs with joint discomfort are especially prone to interrupted sleep — and a vet can rule out anything serious in a 5-minute visit.

Vets Recommend This Dog Bed

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Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping & Returns

How long does shipping take?

We ship from Auckland, with 1-3 delivery days nationwide.

Orders are usually dispatched within 24-72 hours.

Do you ship from New Zealand?

Yes – most definitely.

Unlike our competitors, we ship from Auckland, with delivery in 1-3 days across NZ.

Do you offer easy returns & exchanges?

Just like our anti-anxiety dog beds, our return policy won't give you anxiety.

This Brooklyn® beds comes with 30-day returns and exchanges, meaning if you accidentally pick the wrong size, or decide it's not quite right you, that’s no problem.

The only thing we kindly ask is that you do not let your dog touch the bed while deciding.

Product Questions

How do I wash the bed?

Our bed comes with 100% Machine Washable covers.

Simply unzip the cover, place in your machine on a gentle/delicate cycle and re-zip.

It's as easy as that.

If your dog has an accident, the inner cushion is protected by a breathable mesh layer that can also be washed, helping keep the bed clean, fresh and odour-free.

Does it really calm pets?

Most definitely - we use our world famous plush faux-fur, to mimic their mother's. Creating a sense of zen, which has been proven to create a calming space for your pet.

Do vets recommend this bed?

Yes. We’ve received testimonials from vets who use our beds in their own clinics and homes.

They love the high-density support used in our orthopaedic dog beds, which helps provide proper joint support and high-quality sleep for dogs of all ages.

Can I buy this bed in pet stores?

No. Brooklyn® Deep Sleep Beds are sold exclusively online through our official store.

While there are many lookalikes and imitation products on the market, our beds are only available directly from us, ensuring you receive the genuine product, materials, and warranty.

What is the bed made of?

Our exterior breathable faux fur is made of high-quality polyester, while the ortho-filling is our super plush, rebound, PP-cotton.

This is the same filling used in human bedding, and kids/child toys alike.

How do I pick the right size?

We recommend taking some time to measure your dog to pick their size accurately.

We know it can be tricky unless you're the local dog whisperer, but give our size recommender a go for a bit of help if measuring becomes too tricky.

Rest assured, we also offer 30-days for returns and exchanges, just in case you're not too happy with the size.

Is it too hot for summer?

Not at all - our beds are made breathable, so cozy when it's cold and comfortable when it's hot.

	Exterior
S	60cm / 23.5"
M	70cm / 27.5"
L	80cm / 31.5"
2XL	100cm / 39.5"

	Exterior
S	60cm / 23.5"
M	70cm / 27.5"
L	80cm / 31.5"
2XL	100cm / 39.5"

Why Does My Dog Hiccup When Sleeping?