Constipation in Dogs -
Causes, Treatment And Vet Warning Signs

Constipation in dogs is not a common problem in healthy pets, so If your dog suddenly becomes constipated, don't panic - it may just be a mild attack which generally doesn't last more than a day or so. But, when it persists, the stools can become hard and dry, making it even more difficult for a dog to pass them.

Prolonged constipation that lasts 48 hours, or any time there is any indication of pain or the dog is straining, is a cause for concern and a reason to contact the your veterinarian right away. When pain is evident, it's possible the pet may have a bowel obstruction and needs expert attention.

What is Dog Constipation?

Constipation means infrequent or difficulty in defecating. Forceful straining to pass dry hard feces are signs of constipation. There different reasons for this condition but there are also a variety of simple fixes if addressed promptly.

Symptoms of Constipation in Dogs

Causes and Risk Factors of Constipation in Dogs

• Dehydration is a fairly common cause for constipation and if so, adding some water to the dog's food is a simple solution - especially if on a dry food regimen.

• Lack of sufficient exercise is sometimes the reason a pet becomes constipated. Most dogs need at least two walks a day of sufficient duration for their breed. (Visit our dog breed page to look up your dog's exercise needs) Exercise aids in keeping a dog's tummy muscles strong which in turn helps to keep everything moving along nicely inside the digestive tract.

• Older dogs that can't get as much exercise due to stiff joints or other health issues may need more supplemental treatment.

• Long hours of confinement while the family members are at work may cause the pet to form the habit of holding on until someone comes home.  Combined with a reduced amount of exercise, the stage is set for a constipation.

• Eating indigestible or foreign materials: bone chips, hair, grass, paper etc., is a well-recognized cause when pets are struggling to defecate. Or, have there been any abrupt changes to the dog's diet, or new treats, that could be a contributing factor. 

Treatment Options

If your dog is getting sufficient exercise and has plenty of opportunity to get outside when he has an urge to eliminate, then you might want to try one of the following:

• Adding a little olive oil to his food for a few days. The amount depends on the size of your dog, but a 1/2 to 1 teaspoon would be a starting point. If the situation normalizes, you can discontinue the oil. If it doesn't help, then consult with a veterinarian.

• Adding more fiber to his food. Depending on the size of your dog, a little bit of bran will help the stools retain more moisture and as a result be easier to pass.

• Another choice is ground flax seed which has the added benefit of improving overall health as well as arthritic joint problems by supplying necessary omega fatty acids. In either case, check with your vet for recommended amounts to give your pet.

Amounts: As a general rule, the approximate amount of bran for pets each day would be in the range of 1/2 teaspoon up to 1 tablespoon of bran a day.

And for the ground flax seed amounts:

1/2 to 1 teaspoon per day (dogs weighing up to 20 pounds)

1 to 2 teaspoons per day (dogs weighing 20-50 pounds)

2 to 3 teaspoons per day (dogs weighing 50-100 pounds)

1 to 1-1/2 tablespoons per day (dogs weighing over 100 pounds)

Over the counter options include Metamucil, Lax'aire or Miralax.

Other good choices of fiber to add into your dog's food are lightly cooked vegetables and canned pumpkin with no additives or sugar.

Any of these remedies need a little time to work, but also don't forget to check with your vet because he knows your dogs complete health profile and needs.

A Constipated Dog Needs Sufficient Hydration

When your dog is suffering from a bout of constipation it is also very important that he is drinking sufficient water especially when adding fiber to his food.

To encourage him to drink enough, make the water more appealing by refreshing it often. If he is still showing reluctance about taking fluids, you can try to entice him with some milk.

While milk isn't usually on a dog's diet, it often acts as a laxative and may in the short term cause him to have loose stools - putting an end to the constipation!

Preventing Constipation In Dogs

• Nothing could be more helpful to a dog's overall health and immune system than a natural diet containing a proper balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
  
  This will go a long way toward preventing constipation in your pet. So if your dog is not thriving on his present diet, review some better options with your vet's approval.
  
  Sadly, many pet illnesses and constipated dog problems are caused by low grade commercial pet foods containing very little in the way of food value, made-up-for by adding worthless fillers and a host of dangerous toxic substances, additives, preservatives, dyes and the like.

• Next to diet, exercise is vitally important to all areas of a dog's health. Exercise keeps the muscles toned, provides cardiovascular benefits, helps the body to flush out toxins and keeps the digestive system operating smoothly which in turn leads to easier and more regular evacuation of the bowels.
  
  Older dogs that don't get as much exercise may need more help from dietary fiber, or get relief from acupressure or another holistic approach using crystals to balance internal energy.

• To summarize, a healthy natural diet combined with sufficient regular exercise, is the best way to help you pet avoid being constipated. Get these two things right and your dog will thank you.
  
  Whenever your dog is experiencing discomfort or a health issue and you are worrying about it, the best thing you can do is have a consult with your vet to put your mind at ease.

Veterinary & Medical Sources

The information on this page is based on research from trusted veterinary and animal health authorities and is written for general educational purposes.
Content was developed using guidance from veterinary teaching institutions, animal welfare organizations, and established veterinary reference manuals, some of which may include:
– University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
– Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
– ASPCA
– Merck Veterinary Manual
– Merck Animal Health (USA)

This content is not intended to replace professional veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian with questions or concerns about your dog’s health.

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