Knowing how to make a constipated dog poop quickly can be frustrating for pet parents. Dog constipation is one of those issues that can stress out the most diligent pet parent. Fortunately, there are home remedies for constipation to help alleviate your worries.
According to Veterinary Practice News, gastric issues are one of the top reasons people take their dogs to the veterinarian. Understanding the cause of your dog’s constipation is essential to better equip yourself to get things moving again in your dog’s gut.
In this article, we share common causes and symptoms of canine constipation, along with how and when to treat it at home. As always, it’s best to check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or if your dog’s constipation lasts beyond 48 hours.
What Causes Dog Constipation?
Many different things can cause constipation in dogs, and no two dogs are alike. What makes one dog constipated may have no effect on another. Identifying the reason(s) for constipation is the first step in selecting the right remedy. Common causes of canine constipation include:
- Dehydration: Like people, dogs need fresh, clean water year-round, especially in the warmer and colder months. When dogs are dehydrated, their stool may become hard and difficult to pass.
- Lack of Dietary Fiber: If your dog’s diet is not providing enough fiber, they may become constipated. If lack of fiber is a concern, consider boosting the fiber in your dog’s diet.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Dogs who don’t get enough exercise or movement often suffer from constipation. Incorporating movement, walks, and general physical activity into your dog’s daily routine can make a difference.
- Ingestion of Foreign Objects: Dogs ingest the strangest things, from toys to socks, hair to dirt and rocks. Since dogs interact with the world through their eyes, nose, and mouth, be mindful of signs that your dog may have swallowed something inappropriate.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause constipation as a side effect. Things like antihistamines, pain relievers, iron supplements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can slow gut movement in dogs.
- Medical Conditions: Dogs with anal gland issues, an enlarged prostate, or neurological issues, to name a few, may experience bouts of constipation.
Stress: Dogs under stress may have increased cortisol and other stress hormones. When cortisol is elevated, bowel movements may slow, making it harder for your dog to defecate. Talk to your veterinarian about testing your dog’s cortisol level.
Signs Your Dog May Be Constipated
“Most dogs produce stool at least once a day and often more frequently, usually sort of corresponding to the number of meals they eat,” according to Dr. Silene St. Bernard, Regional Medication Director, VCA Animal Hospitals. “If your dog is constipated, you may notice your dog trying to pass stool without success, straining or otherwise acting a bit uncomfortably.”
Dr. Elizabeth Tancredi of VCA Venture Animal Hospital agrees and says constipated dogs may posture to poop without success. She says small amounts of poop may come out that look normal, or it may be smaller and harder than their baseline normal poop.
Other signs your dog may be constipated include:
- Scooting or licking around the anal area
- Dry, hard stools
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy or general fatigue
- Abdominal discomfort
- Vomiting
If you notice blood when your dog strains to defecate or hasn’t had a bowel movement in over 48 hours, see a veterinarian.
9 Home Remedies to Help a Constipated Dog Poop Quickly
Home remedies for dog constipation are best for mild cases. Safe and effective home remedies to consider that may relieve canine constipation include:
Pumpkin
“The safest home remedies to try include adding pumpkin to the food or a small amount of a fiber supplement like Metamucil,” says Dr. Bernard. “Remember that most dogs are smaller than humans, so the human dose is too high.”
Pumpkin is known for its ability to regulate digestion due to its high fiber content. Be sure to use canned pumpkin without sugar (not pumpkin pie filling) in your dog’s food for mild constipation issues.
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil
These oils act as a lubricant for your dog’s digestive system. A small amount added to daily meals may help relieve constipation in dogs. Too much can lead to diarrhea.
Proper Hydration
Water is the foundation of life. Without it, people and pets cannot survive. In our article about how much water a dog should drink, we provide water consumption guidelines for your dog’s size and weight.
Physical Activity
Movement is good for the body because it stimulates the digestive system and helps keep bowel movements regular. Ask your veterinarian how much exercise is enough for your dog. At the very least, dogs should get one or two walks a day with plenty of time for sniff time so they are encouraged to poop.
High-Fiber Foods
Things like plain, cooked green beans or mashed sweet potatoes serve as natural fiber boosters in dogs. Fiber also comes in other forms, such as over-the-counter products, which we will discuss.
Lactose-Free Yogurt
Dairy and yogurt may serve as a mild laxative for some dogs. Never give a dog dairy products with sugar substitutes like Xylitol. Too much dairy can cause diarrhea or belly upset.
Warm Compress (if tolerated)
A warm water compress on the belly may encourage the bowels to move if your dog allows it. Don’t make the compress too hot. To help your dog accept the compress, try tiring them out first with a walk or play session. Rub their tummy and ease into placing the warm compress on their tummy.
Psyllium Husk Powder
Dr. Tancredi reports that psyllium husk powder, or Metamucil, can be added to food to increase fiber and relieve constipation. Your veterinarian can provide dosage information. Too much MiraLAX or Metamucil can cause diarrhea.
Aloe Vera Juice
Most health food stores or natural sections of grocery stores sell aloe vera juice. Consult with your veterinarian about the right dose to serve your dog.
What to Avoid When Treating Dog Constipation at Home
A dog can safely go about 48 to 72 hours without defecating, per Dr. Bernard. Dr. Betty Chow of VCA Animal Specialty and Emergency Center says it depends on the dog.
Some things should never be used to treat constipation in dogs at home. These include, but are not limited to:
- Human Laxatives: Human laxatives are not designed for a dog’s digestive system and can harm your pup. Some human laxatives contain ingredients that may be toxic to dogs (i.e., senna, cascara, bisacodyl). Further, the rapid loss of fluids can disrupt your dog’s electrolytes and cause dehydration, muscle weakness, and heart arrhythmia.
- Too Much Fiber: You can do more harm than good by feeding too much fiber. In addition to upset stomach, your dog may experience explosive diarrhea from too much fiber. Too much diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening.
- Guessing Why Your Dog is Constipated: “Dogs can be constipated for a variety of reasons, which is why getting a proper diagnosis is critical before trying any type of treatment at home,” Dr. Bernard reported. “Dogs could have an obstruction, including foreign objects they may have eaten or a mass or stricture in the colon or anal region. These are diagnosed with a physical examination that usually includes x-rays.”
- Remedies That Aren’t Veterinarian-Approved: Your dog may not actually be constipated, which can be worsened by the wrong home remedy. One-size or one-product-fits-all is never a good idea when giving your dog something your veterinarian does not approve of.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
“If you are worried about your dog’s bathroom behaviors, please schedule an appointment with your veterinarian,” says Dr. Tancredi.
If your dog recently had surgery that included anesthesia, Dr. Tancredi reports constipation may occur. This can be from medications used in the anesthesia protocol and because patients are fasted before surgery.
Some other reasons to contact your veterinarian include:
- Constipation that goes longer than 48 to 72 hours.
- If constipation is accompanied by vomiting or blood in the stool or the rectal area.
- If your dog is uncomfortable or has signs of pain.
- If your dog is a senior and seems uncomfortable.
- Your dog ingested a foreign object (never try to clear an intestinal blockage at home).
- Bloating or abdominal swelling.
- Chronic recurrent constipation episodes.
When visiting the vet, they may do x-rays or an ultrasound, perform a rectal examination, use an enema to help relieve constipation, prescribe medications, or surgical intervention if necessary.
Treating Canine Constipation at Home
Mild cases of canine constipation may be treated at home once pet parents understand the cause and symptoms. If something prevents your dog from defecating, things can get serious fast if not treated by a veterinarian.
Symptoms to watch for include straining to defecate, small or hard stools, infrequent bowel movements, bloating, decreased appetite, and lethargy. The symptoms may increase or worsen and include bloody stool and vomiting.
Maintain a consistent exercise routine and monitor your dog’s stool regularly. Providing a well-balanced diet, keeping them hydrated, and being a proactive pet parent are keys to keeping dogs happy, healthy, and regular.
Sources
https://vcahospitals.com/venture/team/elizabeth-tancredi
https://vcahospitals.com/animal-specialty-emergency/team/betty-chow
