Dog Constipation: Causes and Treatment

Dealing with a constipated dog can be worrying and uncomfortable for both you and your pet.

Constipation is more than just an inconvenient issue--it's important to identify the cause of your pup's discomfort so they can get appropriate treatment.

Whether you're dealing with a one-time case or an ongoing problem, this blog post will provide useful insights into potential causes of your furry companion's distress as well as tips on how to help them feel better fast!

How Dogs Get Constipated

It's not uncommon for a dog to experience constipation from time to time, especially if they've been indulging in table scraps or aren't getting enough exercise.

A constipated dog may strain while trying to defecate, have infrequent bowel movements, or pass small, hard stools.

The key to maintaining a dog's digestive health is ensuring they have regular bowel movements, which helps to flush out toxins and keep the digestive tract functioning properly.

Ensuring your dog's diet is high in fibre and giving your pup plenty of opportunities to exercise can help prevent constipation.

However, if your dog eats a lot of dry food, they may be at a higher risk of becoming constipated, so it's important to keep an eye on their bathroom habits and make changes to their diet or exercise routine as necessary.

What Should I do if my Dog Can't Poop?

If you notice that your dog is not pooping, it could be a sign of mild or severe constipation. In cases of mild constipation, increasing your pup's water and fibre intake through diet changes and supplements can help. Wet food can also help stimulate bowl movements if your dog is more accustomed to dry food/kibble.

However, if it persists or becomes severe constipation & your dog shows signs of discomfort, it's important to contact your vet immediately.

Severe constipation can lead to more serious health issues, and your vet may need to provide additional treatments or advice for your pup's bowel movements.

Always prioritise your dog's health and well-being, and consult with a professional if you have any concerns.

Strains While Pooping

As a pet owner, it can be concerning to see your furry friend strain while pooping. This could be a sign that your dog is constipated, meaning they are having trouble passing stools.

If your dog is not pooping or having less frequent bowel movements, it is important to consider their diet. Are they getting enough fibre? Are they staying hydrated?

It may be necessary to switch to a different type of dog food or add stool softeners to their diet to help alleviate constipation.

If the problem persists, it is best to consult with your veterinarian for more targeted treatments.

Remember, keeping your dog healthy in all aspects of their life is key to ensuring a long and happy life together.

How Often do Most Dogs Poop in a Day?

One of the most common questions that many dog owners have is how often their furry companions need to have a bowel movement.

The frequency at which dogs poop varies depending on several factors, such as their age, diet, and physical activity level.

However, on average, most dogs tend to have a bowel movement once or twice per day.

Of course, some dogs may need to go more frequently, while others may only need to go every other day.

It's important to monitor your dog's poop and ensure that they are not experiencing any discomfort or abnormalities.

Regular physical activity can also help regulate a dog's digestive system and promote healthy dog poop.

How to Help Constipated Dogs

When your furry companion is not able to relieve themselves, it can be worrisome for any pet owner. If you notice that your dog is constipated, there are a variety of things you can do to help them find relief.

The first step is to evaluate their diet and ensure they are receiving enough fibre and water. Adding in some canned pumpkin or cooked sweet potato can also help to soften their stools & relieve constipation.

Additionally, physical exercise can stimulate bowel movements and get things moving.

If there is serious concern, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and best course of action or dog constipation treatment.

By taking proactive steps to relieve their constipation, you can keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

What Are the Signs of Constipation in Dogs?

As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our furry friends are healthy and happy. However, sometimes our beloved dogs can experience discomfort that might not be easily recognizable.

One common issue that a constipated dog can suffer from is a distended belly, which is caused by a build-up of gas and fecal matter in the digestive system.

Other signs to look out for include a lack of appetite, lethargy, and straining to defecate. When the dog is able to pass faeces it will be dry and resemble small, pebble-like droppings instead of a normal stool, which can be a tell-tale sign of constipation in dogs.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pup, especially with severe bloating, it's important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible to alleviate any discomfort and prevent a potentially serious condition from developing.

Symptoms of Constipation in Dogs

Constipation in dogs can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms that can disrupt their usual happy-go-lucky demeanour.

Lethargy and an unwillingness to move around are common indicators that something may not be right in your furry companion's digestive system.

You may also notice your dog's belly appearing bloated, signalling that they are having trouble passing stool.

Pain management may also come into play as constipation can cause discomfort or even pain for your pet.

It's important to determine the underlying causes of your dog's constipation, as diet and medication changes may be necessary to alleviate their symptoms.

If left untreated, constipation can lead to more serious intestinal health issues, problems with their gastrointestinal tract or even a condition called obstipation for your furry friend.

So, take note of any changes in your dog's bathroom habits and seek veterinary advice if you have concerns about their digestive health.

How Vets Diagnose What's Causing Your Dog's Constipation

If you've noticed that your furry pal isn't passing stools as regularly as usual, it's time to schedule an appointment with your vet.

During a consultation, your vet will perform a thorough physical examination and may suggest a rectal examination to determine if there are any blockages or abnormal masses in the rectum.

Intestinal parasites are a common cause of constipation in dogs, so your vet may also recommend a stool sample analysis to diagnose any potential infections.

Once the underlying cause of your dog's constipation has been identified, your vet may suggest dietary changes, offer a one time dog laxative to help them along or prescribe medication to treat the issue.

With the help of your vet, your four-legged friend will be back to their regular bowel routine in no time!

Watch for Issues with the Anal Glands After Constipation

Dealing with a constipated dog can be frustrating and worrisome. It’s distressing to see your furry friend in discomfort and unable to pass stool.

While constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, such as diet or illness, it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog after a bout of constipation has passed.

Often, if a dog is unable to pass stool, their anal glands may also not be expressed & cleared. This can lead to a build up of fluid in the anal glands, which can cause discomfort and even infection.

It’s crucial to watch your dog carefully for any signs of anal gland issues after constipation, such as scooting or biting at their behind.

By paying close attention to your furry friend’s behaviour and taking preventative measures, you can help keep them healthy and comfortable.