 Of all the digestive problems dogs can develop constipation is one of the most common. While you might not think it is serious, constipation could be life-threatening depending on what's causing it. Here, our Sharpsburg vets discuss the causes of constipation in dogs and how you can help your pup. Show Constipation in DogsIf your dog is having infrequent bowel movements, they're difficult for your pup to pass, or completely absent, your pup is probably experiencing constipation. It's critical for dog owners to know that it's a veterinary emergency when a dog is unable to pass feces or is experiencing pain associated with passing feces. If this sounds like your dog they require immediate care! If your dog is straining when trying to pass a stool and/or is producing hard, dry stools, these are also signs that indicate your dog needs to be examined by a vet quickly. Sometimes, dogs can pass mucus when attempting to defecate, scoot along the ground, circle excessively, or squat often without defecating. If you press on your pup's lower back or stomach they might have a tense, painful abdomen that makes them cry or growl. Causes of Dog ConstipationThere are a variety of reasons why a dog can become constipated, a few of the most common are:
Senior pets might experience constipation more frequently. Although, any dog that's facing one or more of the scenarios listed above could suffer from constipation. Common Constipation Symptoms in DogsSigns of constipation include straining, crying, or crouching when attempting to defecate. Also, if it’s been more than two days since they have had a bowel movement, see your vet immediately. Remember these symptoms may be similar to those that may point to a urinary tract issue, so it’s important for your vet to perform a full physical exam to diagnose the cause. What You Can Give Your Dog for Their ConstipationGoogle “How to treat constipation in dogs” and you’ll find wide-ranging advice, from sources both trustworthy and dubious. Never give your dog medications or treatments formulated for humans without consulting your vet first. Many human medications are toxic to dogs. The best thing to do is contact your veterinarian and bring your dog in for an exam. The treatment for your dog's constipation will depend upon the underlying cause of your pup's condition. If your pooch has eaten something they shouldn't have there is a chance that there is a blockage causing the issue. This is a medical emergency that will likely require urgent surgery. Blood tests could show if your pup is suffering from dehydration or has an infection. Your vet will probably ask about your dog's medical history, conduct a rectal examination to rule out other abnormalities or causes, and might recommend one or a combination of the following treatments:
Carefully follow your vet’s instructions because trying too many of these or the wrong combination could cause the opposite problem - diarrhea. You don’t want to swap one digestive issue for another. What Happens When Constipation in Dogs Goes UntreatedIf your dog’s constipation goes untreated, they could reach the point where they become unable to empty their colon on their own (a condition called obstipation). The colon then becomes packed with an uncomfortably large amount of feces, causing lethargy, unproductive straining, loss of appetite, and potentially vomiting. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. Contact our vets in Sharpsburg today to schedule an appointment if you believe your dog is constipated.
(Picture Credit: Getty Images) (Picture Credit: Getty Images) Just like people, dogs can experience constipation which can make him uncomfortable and even cause him pain. The condition can usually be attributed to a lack of fiber in his diet or not drinking enough water during the day. Feeding your dog certain types of people food can also contribute to the problem. There are many options for treating constipation, we’ve listed just a few to get you started. Please keep in mind that you should always consult your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet or administering medications (and also to be certain that he isn’t exhibiting symptoms of a more serious illness or disorder). 1. Pumpkin: Feeding your dog a little bit of pumpkin with his food is a great way to prevent and cure constipation. Pumpkin is high in water content and a great source of fiber. You can either puree fresh pumpkin or use canned pureed pumpkin. Take a look at our recipes for Pumpsicles, Pup-kin pie and Howl-o-ween cupcakes. 2. Supplements: There are natural supplements available that will aid in curing a dog’s constipation. They usually contain additives such as acidophilus, folic acid, and vegetable enzymes. Check with your vet for recommendations. 3. Laxatives: If your vet advises it, a mild laxative may do the trick. Of course the amount will depend on the size and weight of your dog. 4. Enema: Your vet will tell you if this is an option he wants to pursue. 5. Milk of Magnesia: A small amount of Milk of Magnesia may be all that he needs but again, check with your vet first! 6. Bran (wheat & oat): Bran works as a preventative (much like pumpkin), when added to your dog’s food regularly. Ask your vet for advice on how much to add. Try our recipe for Digger’s Dream Muffins with oat bran. 7. Powdered psyllium seed: Psyllium seed pull water into the stool and help move it along. 8. Mineral oil: Mineral oil helps lubricate the stool. 9. Aloe Ferox: Aloe Ferox has a beneficial effect on digestive functioning and acts as a natural system cleanser and remedy. 10. Increased exercise: Increased exercise will massage internal organs and increase blood flow in the colon. Categories: General Constipation in dogs is when a dog is unable to poo, or is struggling to poo — which is typically dry and hard. Older dogs are more prone to constipation but it can be seen in any breed of dog at any age. Constipation in dogs should not be ignored, as if left untreated it can lead to more serious issues. If your dog hasn’t pooed for more than 24 hours be sure to get it checked out by your vet. If you’re worried about your constipated dog call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now. If it’s not an emergency but you would like some advice, book an online video consultation with our vets here.
A constipated dog will look like they are trying to poo, there may be liquid or mucus from the anus and redness or swelling around the anus. It is important to identify whether your dog is trying to pass faeces (poo) or trying to urinate. Unfortunately, the signs can be quite similar, making it difficult to be sure what is going on. If your dog is straining to pass urine, they will adopt a position to pass urine, you may see small amounts of urine or blood around the vulva or penis/sheath and they may lick the area.
Your dog will struggle to poo and will either pass small amounts of hard poo or nothing at all. Your dog may show signs of discomfort or pain and may pass spots of blood. Confusingly, diarrhoea can also lead to straining, but you will normally have seen the evidence of loose or runny poo first. If left untreated, constipation can lead to lethargy, vomiting, depression and loss of appetite.
The most common cause of constipation in dogs is swallowing objects that are not easily digested, such as bones, grass or hair. Other causes include lack of fibre, lack of exercise, blocked anal glands, certain intestinal problems, trauma to the pelvis an enlarged prostate, kidney disease or hernias. Wear rubber gloves when dealing with faeces and related anal problems. Check your dog’s temperature. If it is abnormally high or there is blood on the thermometer or resistance when inserting the thermometer, see your vet immediately. If you can see a thread or string in the anus, do not pull it as this can cause internal damage. If you can see grass in the anus, gently ease it out. If faeces are matted around the anus, trim carefully with scissors. Wash the anal region with warm, soapy water and apply a soothing, water-soluble jelly (such as K-Y) to the inflamed area. Long-haired dogs, especially small ones like Yorkshire terriers, can become distressed with the discomfort caused by matted faeces around their bottom and the trimming process. You may need to soak your dog’s bottom in warm water before you begin trimming to make it more comfortable.
Diagnosis of constipation in dogs typically involves examining your dog’s abdomen and performing a rectal examination. Your vet may also ask if your dog has a history of dietary indiscretion (a tendency to eat unusual items). In order to determine the cause of your dog’s constipation, your vet will want to know how long your dog has been constipated. They will also want to know if your dog has eaten anything unusual or indigestible which may have increased ‘faecal bulk’ or could be causing pain which is hindering your dog’s ability to defecate. Your vet may also consider other potentially relevant factors including recent surgery, previous pelvic trauma, and possibly radiation therapy. X-rays, abdominal ultrasound or blood tests may be required to identify any underlying cause of dog constipation. Signs your dog is constipated include:
Treatment for mild constipation typically involves stopping your dog eating unusual or indigestible items and providing access to water and a high-fibre diet. Suppository laxatives may also be given, although long-term use is not recommended unless absolutely necessary. Treatment of mild to moderate constipation may involve admitting your dog so that he can be given enemas and fluids (a drip) to rehydrate them. Manual removal of impacted faeces may also be necessary. In cases of intact (uncastrated) males where the prostate is the cause of constipation, castration may be recommended. Signs your dog is constipated include:
In order to provide dog constipation relief, things your vet may recommend include:
In order to prevent constipation, dogs should be given a high-fibre diet, access to water, and frequent opportunities to defecate. Avoid giving your dog bones. Neutering your dog at an early age will also prevent growth of the prostate, which can lead to constipation.
First Published 2nd January 2017 Last Updated 6th June 2022 Vets Now assumes no liability for the content of this page. This advice is not a substitute for a proper consultation with a vet and is only intended as a guide. Please contact your local veterinary practice for advice or treatment immediately if you are worried about your pet’s health — even if they are closed, they will always have an out-of-hours service available. Find out more about what to do in an emergency. |
What to do for dog constipation
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