Home Remedies for Dog Constipation

Most pet owners have extensive knowledge of their pet’s toilet habits. That’s because we have to scoop the poop!

As a result, it’s quite evident when your pet deviates from its “normal” schedule.

Constipation in dogs is not as frequent as you would expect. It can sometimes be minor and resolve on its own. Constipation in dogs can be significant at times and be caused by major underlying medical issues. 

What Causes Constipation in Dogs? 

You may see your dog straining to have a bowel movement if it is constipated. If your pet can defecate, the feces will most likely be hard and dry, as well as tiny and pebble-like.

When a dog is constipated, his appetite may suffer, and he may even vomit. If you observe a reduction in the frequency of your dog’s bowel movements, this might be a symptom of constipation.

 If your dog suffers any of the symptoms listed below, see your veterinarian:

• Without a bowel movement for two or more days. 
• Having difficulty peeing, straining to urinate, or being unable to urinate 
• Pain or anguish, such as screaming out when defecating or standing with a slumped posture. 
• Stool with blood or passing blood without passing stool Any increasing symptoms of sickness, such as vomiting, tiredness, or a loss of appetite. 
• In dehydration, the body loses ability to retain water.
• Inconsistency in diet (eating something inappropriate) 
• Foreign body obstacle (for example, grass, hair, pebbles, fabric, toy parts) 
• Obstruction as a result of aberrant tissue development (tumor, polyp, congenital malformation) 
• Dysfunction of gastrointestinal motility 
• Prostate enlargement (male dogs) 
• Side effects of medication 
• Hair that has become tangled and is covering the anus 
• Is it an orthopedic or neurological issue? 
• Immobility or a sedentary lifestyle 

There might be other causes of your dog’s constipation. Constipation may resolve without anybody determining the cause in certain situations. 

Treatment

Remember that your veterinarian is always the most significant source of information when it comes to canine health. However, if you observe minor constipation in your dog, you might first try a few home remedies to provide relief. 

If your dog is straining to defecate, check sure he hasn’t had diarrhea. When dogs experience diarrhea, they often feel compelled to defecate again. If your dog has diarrhea, using home remedies for constipation can only make matters worse. 

The following essential modifications may assist your dog in resuming regular defecation: 

Hydrate: 

Constipation is generally resolved by adding moisture to your dog’s body. To your dog’s diet, try adding water or low-sodium chicken broth.

Alternatively, if your dog only eats dry food, consider providing good-quality canned food. If it’s available, try purchasing the canned version of his current diet, but any high-quality canned food should suffice as long as your dog doesn’t have any food allergies or sensitivities.

Try mixing green beans, sweet potatoes, or a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) with your dog’s kibble instead of canned food. 

Bowels:

Things move when there is movement. Sometimes just being active is enough to get your dog’s bowels moving. If your dog’s health is fine to exercise, go for a long walk with them or give another form of moderate to intense activity.

Regular exercise is an excellent strategy to prevent constipation in older dogs or dogs prone to constipation. 

No Enema:

Leave out the enema. Do not attempt to administer an enema to your dog at home unless directed to do so by your veterinarian. 

Clean water:

The importance of hydration in your dog’s digestive health cannot be overstated. Make sure your pet has access to clean water at all times, especially in hot weather or after activity. 

High fiber diet:

A high-fiber diet is essential for digestive health; examine the ingredients in your dog’s food and consult with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is getting enough fiber. 

Exercise:

Dogs require frequent exercise, with certain breeds requiring more than others. On frigid days, it’s tempting to take your pet for the shortest possible stroll, but this might be detrimental to their stomach. 

Chew toy:

Natural bones can occasionally cause constipation; consider a synthetic chew toy if your dog is prone to constipation. 

Evaluate:

If your dog is prone to constipation, keep an eye on them as they go to the toilet and examine their feces regularly so you can notice when things change. 

Marshmallow Root: 

The root of marshmallow is a herb that has been used for thousands of years for its anti-inflammatory effects and irritation alleviation.

Marshmallow root helps relax mucous membranes, allowing feces to flow more easily. Marshmallow root contains mucilage, which can help to strengthen, soothe, and moisturize the colon.

Marshmallow root should be consumed with plenty of water. It is available in liquid form to add to your dog’s water dish at your local health food shop. 

Slippery Elm: 

Slippery elm is a well-known plant used to treat mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive tracts.

The colon and intestinal walls relax and cover with slippery elm, allowing hard stool to pass more readily. It is also a herb that contains mucilage, which reduces irritation that may be causing your dog discomfort and suffering that may be preventing your dog from pushing. If your dog is persistently or even sometimes constipated, a herb with natural mucilage qualities can help them maintain a healthy evacuation pattern.

Slippery elm can be obtained in liquid or pill form at your local health food shop. A liquid can be poured into the dog’s water or sprayed straight on their meal. It is advised that you give your dog slippery elm three to four times each day for one or two weeks. 

There are several methods for preventing constipation before it becomes a condition that causes pain and suffering in your dog.

Ensure that your dog is eating the well-balanced, nutritious, and natural food that your veterinarian has recommended. Your dog must always have access to freshwater. Staying hydrated is the most effective strategy to prevent constipation.

 If your dog is uncomfortable and constipated, you may supplement their diet with natural foods like pumpkin to assist them in evacuating.

Fiber-rich foods, like green vegetables and carrots, can be added to all of your dog’s meals to aid digestion and provide natural fiber. With proper nutrition, you may improve your dog’s general health and prevent constipation.