Constipation is an uncomfortable condition that can occur in dogs. It’s important to get it taken care of before it leads to bigger problems. Here’s what to know about constipation in dogs:

What is Constipation in Dogs?

Constipation is a common health problem in dogs. It means they can’t produce normal stools on a regular schedule. For dogs, this is usually bowel movements once or twice a day. Dogs suffering from constipation will not be able to go at all, or strain to go. If they can go, their stool is hard and dry.

This happens occasionally and is usually easily fixed. However, it can become chronic in some dogs. In these cases, dry stools can become compact, back up, and can lead to obstipation. When this happens, dogs cannot go at all. This is something that should be taken care of quickly.

What Causes Constipation in Dogs?

When your dog’s digestive system is working normally, their waste is full of electrolytes and water. As waste moves through the intestines, water is absorbed, leaving behind solid matter. If this process is slowed or inhibited, the colon will keep absorbing water, leading to a much dryer stool.

There are a few different causes of constipation. These causes can include a lack of exercise, a lack of fiber in their diet, poor diet or sudden diet changes, blockages from eating garbage, dehydration, and anal gland problems. Other causes can include renal issues, an enlarged colon, medications, tumors, or after-effects of surgery and anesthesia.

While constipation can occur in any dog, it is more common in older dogs. This can be due to a lack of electrolytes or kidney issues. Male dogs may also suffer from an enlarged prostate, which can cause constipation.

6 Signs of Constipation in Dogs

There are a few signs of constipation in dogs to look out for:

• Lack of defecation for a few days
• Hard stools, like pebbles
• Straining during potty breaks
• Bloody stool
• Painful defecation
• Obvious discomfort

If you see any of these symptoms in your dog, you should seek help and treatment. Bloody stool is one of the symptoms you should never ignore in your dog.

What to Do If Your Dog is Constipated

If your dog has just begun experiencing any of these symptoms, it can be overwhelming knowing what to do if your dog is constipated. There are some foods to try that can help loosen stools as well as medications to try.

What to Give a Constipated Dog

There are some foods and treatments to try that can help a dog eliminate stools quickly and safely.

Canned or Cooked Pumpkin Puree

Oddly enough, canned or cooked pumpkin purée can be an excellent treatment to help your dog with constipation. A safe superfood for your dog, pumpkin is packed with moisture and fiber, two things that are essential in helping your dog eliminate stools.

Most dogs enjoy the taste so they tend to gobble it right up. There are some different recipes to try if your dog is wary of pumpkin. But if you’re trying to regulate their digestive system, it’s best to give it straight from the can.

Just make sure you are giving them plain pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which can have several spices and ingredients that are harmful to your dog.

Canned Dog Food

Canned dog food is a lot softer and is much more moist than dry dog food. This food can help soften your dog’s stools. Plus, canned dog food may be a delicacy or treat for your dog, making them more likely to enthusiastically eat it. However, in order to avoid an upset stomach, mix in just a bit of their dry food with the wet food.

Plenty of Water

Ensuring your dog is well hydrated is essential to combating constipation. If they are refusing water, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How to Make a Constipated Dog Poop Quickly

If the extra fiber and hydration aren’t working, there are a few other things to help your dog go quickly.

Talk to Your Vet About Stool Softeners

It might be helpful to try stool softeners. This is the type of laxative veterinarians used to treat constipation in dogs. Some of these laxatives are available over the counter while others are prescribed by a veterinarian.

Talk to your veterinarian before trying stool softeners with your dog. Even if there are over-the-counter medications that are safe for dogs, you never want to give any to your dog until you have cleared type, dosage, etc. with your vet first.

Try Gently Rubbing Your Dog’s Stomach

Using manual stimulation can also help get your dog’s digestive system moving quickly. Gently rub your dog’s stomach, being careful since they probably are already uncomfortable. This movement can help jumpstart their digestive system.

Get Your Dog Moving With Some Light Activity

It also might be helpful to go on a walk. Exercise can help get things moving along as well and will help your pup feel better soon. There are quite a few ways to exercise with your dog if you’re looking for something beyond a walk.

This is just an overview of what to know about constipation in dogs. Most dogs only experience constipation infrequently. But knowing what to do if it occurs will help your dog get back to feeling better in no time!