Constipation is a common digestive issue in dogs that, if ignored, can cause discomfort and potentially have significant health consequences. As a dog owner, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of constipation and take appropriate measures to prevent and treat it.
While some cases of constipation can be resolved with simple home remedies, others require medical intervention. This article will discuss the most effective ways to quickly make a constipated dog poop, including diet and exercise changes, home remedies, and medical interventions.
We’ll also cover the signs and symptoms of constipation and offer tips for preventing it from happening in the first place.
Symptoms of Dog Constipation:
Here are the common symptoms of dog constipation:
Straining To Defecate: A dog with constipation may try to defecate multiple times but have difficulty passing stool. You may notice your dog crouching down, but no feces or manure is produced.
Infrequent Bowel Movements: If your dog usually defecates daily but suddenly skips a day or more, it may be constipated.
Hard and Dry Feces: Constipated dogs may pass hard, dry, and small feces. The excreta may also be discolored or have an abnormal odor.
Loss of Appetite: A dog with constipation may experience a decreased appetite due to discomfort.
Abdominal Discomfort: Constipation can cause abdominal pain, making your dog restless and uncomfortable. They may display signs such as whining, pacing, or circling.
Vomiting: If constipation is severe, your dog may vomit. The vomiting may be caused by the build up of feces in the colon, leading to stomach distress.
Lethargy: Constipation can make your dog tired and lethargic, reducing their overall activity levels.
Bloated Stomach: In extreme cases of constipation, your dog’s stomach may appear distended or bulging. This is a medical emergency that necessitates prompt veterinarian care.
7 Ways to Treat Dog Constipation:
There are some things you can do at home to encourage healthy pooping habits, though a veterinarian should always be consulted if you have any concerns about the health of a pet that hasn’t pooped in a long.
Here are safe methods that could help prevent defecation issues from developing and could even help relieve pups who aren’t pooping properly.
- Increase water intake:
Dehydration can worsen constipation, so increasing your dog’s water intake is essential. Ensure that your dog always has access to clean water, and add a few tablespoons of water to his food to promote hydration. Providing a water fountain or changing their water bowl frequently can make water more appealing to your dog.
- Change Your Dog’s Diet:
Feeding your dog a high-fiber diet can help soften their stool and promote regular bowel movements. Adding canned pumpkin or psyllium husk to their food can provide the necessary fiber to help alleviate constipation. However, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet, as certain foods can harm your dog’s health.
- Increase Exercise:
Regular exercise can help stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements. Take your dog for a walk or engage them in play to encourage activity. However, starting with light exercise and gradually increasing the intensity is essential to prevent overexertion.
- Use Laxatives Or Stool Softeners:
Your veterinarian may recommend laxatives or stool softeners to help your dog pass stool. These medications soften the stool or increase intestinal contractions to promote bowel movements. However, it is essential to follow the dosage instructions carefully and only use the medicine as directed by your veterinarian. Overuse of laxatives can cause adverse reactions or worsen constipation.
- The Ice Cube Solution:
This method may be less appealing because it requires patience. However, it is effective in the majority of cases. Put an ice cube on your dog’s tummy and hold it there. Most dogs will be uncomfortable and try to back off, but they will rapidly adjust because no real risk is involved. If not, a couple of treats along the way will undoubtedly help! Your dog will eventually start contracting their bum and pushing out the excrement.
- Enema:
In severe cases of constipation, an enema may be necessary to remove impacted feces. This involves administering a water and stool softener solution into the rectum to soften the stool and stimulate bowel movements. A veterinarian should only perform this procedure as it requires specialized equipment and can cause complications if not done correctly.
- Surgery:
Surgery may be necessary to address the issue if constipation is caused by an underlying health condition such as a tumor or blockage. Surgery may involve removing the blockage or repairing damaged tissue in the digestive tract. However, surgery is usually a last resort and is only recommended when other treatment options have failed.
7 Home Remedies for Dog Constipation:
Here are some things you can do to help relieve your dog’s constipation at home. Here are a few home remedies for dog constipation:
Pumpkin: Adding a tablespoon or two of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) to your dog’s food can provide fiber and help soften the stool. Although pumpkin is generally safe and beneficial for canines, it’s always wise to check with your vet before trying anything new.
Coconut oil: A spoonful can be added to your dog’s diet to lubricate the digestive tract and facilitate stool movement. Furthermore anti-inflammatory, coconut oil can help lessen intestinal irritation.
Exercise: Regular exercise can help stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements. Take your dog for a walk or engage them in play to encourage activity.
Warm water: Giving your dog a warm bath can help relax its muscles and stimulate bowel movements. To help treat constipation, apply a warm compress to the anus.
Olive oil: Adding a teaspoon of olive oil to your dog’s food can help lubricate the digestive tract and promote bowel movements. However, using olive oil in moderation is essential, as excessive consumption can lead to diarrhea.
Hydration: Constipation can be increased by dehydration, so always make sure your dog has access to clean water. Water can be added to their food in small amounts (a few teaspoons) to help them drink more.
Note:
It’s important to remember that while these home remedies can help relieve mild cases of constipation, they should not be used as a substitute for proper medical treatment. If your dog is experiencing severe or chronic constipation or showing other signs of illness, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately.
