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What Is Constipation in Dogs?Constipation in dogs is a common health problem that occurs when the stools become hard and dry, making them difficult to pass. Constipated dogs strain to defecate and typically produce small, firm stools. Sometimes, the feces are so dry that they break into pieces as the dog attempts to pass them. Occasionally, constipation can occur due to obstruction within the rectum or neurologic conditions that make defecation difficult. Constipation is uncomfortable or even painful for your dog and can lead to other problems. It is important to work with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the dry stools to provide proper treatment and prevention. What Is the Difference Between Diarrhea and Constipation in Dogs?Diarrhea in dogs is the production of large and frequent amounts of soft stool. Diarrhea results in liquid or semiliquid stool, often containing mucus and undigested food particles. The exact stool volume varies from one episode to another. Constipation is the opposite of diarrhea. Instead, the dog produces small amounts of firm stool, typically straining to do so. The feces can cause pain as the dog tries to eliminate them. Honest Paws Pre+ Probiotics for Dogs
What Causes Constipation in Dogs?Constipation in dogs can be caused by stress, digestion issues, and other GI tract abnormalities. Here are some of the most common causes of constipation in dogs:
What Are the Symptoms of a Constipated Dog?If your dog is constipated, you will likely notice the following signs of constipation:
You may also see frank blood in the stool if the dog is straining excessively or has a very large, dry stool. How Do I Know If My Dog Is Constipated?Dogs can have many bowel movements ranging from soft to hard, small and round, or large and sausage-shaped. But if your dog hasn’t had a bowel movement in more than three days, he may be constipated. If your dog is attempting to defecate but is instead having the signs listed above, this increases the likelihood that your pet is constipated. What Is the Fastest Way to Relieve Constipation in Dogs?If constipation is a new issue for your dog, it is a good idea to see your dog’s veterinarian to determine what the underlying cause is and develop a management plan. If you have a chronically constipated dog, here are some natural, at-home remedies that can help your dog get relief from constipation: Increase Water Intake (Hydration). Water is an important part of any dog’s diet. A good rule of thumb is that your dog should drink approximately 1 ounce of water for every pound of body weight. For example, a dog who weighs 15 pounds should drink around 15 ounces of water. If your dog isn’t drinking enough water, it will become dehydrated and constipated very quickly because they’re not getting the water they need to move waste through its system. Increase Fiber Intake. Fiber is a complex carbohydrate in plants such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes (beans). Appropriate levels of fiber help bulk up stool, making it softer and easier to pass through the colon. Dogs on a low-fiber diet may benefit from adding more fiber to their diet to help ease their symptoms of constipation. The best sources of fiber for dogs are fruits and vegetables since they also contain vitamins and minerals, which are beneficial for overall health and regular digestion. Excessive fiber can also cause diarrhea. Consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about fiber in your pet’s diet. Exercise Regularly. Exercise helps stimulate bowel movement in dogs. This includes walks around the neighborhood and playing fetch with a ball or Frisbee at home! Use Probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that keep the gut microbiome in check and help with digestion. Probiotics are safe for dogs of all ages and come in different forms, including powders or chewable treats. Probiotics can also be found in certain human foods that are safe for dogs, such as Greek yogurt and kefir. Feed Pumpkin. You can give your dog canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree mixed in with their food or alone as a treat. The good news is that pumpkin is safe for dogs of all ages, so there’s no need to worry about giving it to your puppy. Mineral Oil. Oils are natural laxatives. They coat and lubricate the intestinal tract, so everything can move along the digestive tract smoothly. If recommended by a veterinarian, you can mix mineral oil into his food. A little goes a long way. If you use mineral oil, start with drops and work up to a full teaspoon. Aloe Vera. Aloe vera has been used for thousands of years as a natural, herbal remedy for many conditions and ailments. Dogs with constipation might benefit from drinking aloe vera juice on a regular basis. The dose is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight per day. Aloe vera juice has been shown to increase bowel movements by up to 30%. If you use aloe vera juice for your dog, ensure you are purchasing a variety that does not contain harmful substances, such as the artificial substance xylitol. Feed Your Dog Yogurt. Yogurt contains live cultures that are superb for your dog’s digestive system. Yogurt should be plain yogurt with no added sweeteners like xylitol. Yogurt should not be more than 10% of your pet’s total calories per day. You can give one teaspoon of yogurt per 10 pounds of body weight daily. Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can help relieve constipation. It is prebiotic, meaning it can help to promote healthy bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. Some believe it may also help by stimulating the bowel muscles and increasing the amount of bile in the digestive tract. Mix ¼ to ½ teaspoon into the food or water bowl daily. Do not administer this directly into the mouth. Fennel. Fennel has been used as a traditional treatment for constipation in humans and dogs due to its ability to stimulate intestinal motility, reduce spasms, and increase peristalsis (the wave-like muscle movements that push food through the digestive tract). Add one teaspoon of fennel seeds per cup of water and boil for 10 minutes until reduced by half. Then, strain out all solids before giving your dog 1/2-1 teaspoon every 12 hours as needed for relief. Add Beet Juice to the Water Bowl. Beets contain a tonic that helps relieve constipation by increasing bile production in the liver and gallbladder. This stimulates bile flow from these organs into the intestines, stimulating intestinal contractions and increasing intestinal motility (the speed at which food moves through your dog’s digestive tract). Add Ginger Root to the Food. You can add ginger root to their food or give them a few slices of raw ginger root as a treat. It will help with digestion and reduce stomach pain, thus relieving constipation. The recommended dosage is 1⁄2 teaspoon once or twice daily for dogs under 20 pounds and one teaspoon once or twice daily for dogs over 20 pounds. Dr. Rhiannon Koehler says, “If constipation is a new problem for your dog, always get them examined by a vet before attempting your at-home remedies. At-home remedies are better suited for dogs who have recurrent constipation that has already been evaluated by a veterinarian. It is best to try one thing at a time rather than suddenly doing all of these remedies at once! Too many changes could quickly swing the problem in the opposite direction, resulting in diarrhea. Always keep your vet in the loop regarding anything you’re giving at home.” What Can I Give My Dog for Constipation?When dealing with constipation in dogs, pet owners can use the following products: Honest Paws Probiotics for Dogs. Honest Paws Probiotics for Dogs is a probiotic supplement that helps with dog constipation. It contains living microbes that help maintain the health of your dog’s intestinal tract. They are often used to treat diarrhea, but they can also be used to relieve constipation. Honest Paws Probiotics for Dogs contains different strains of beneficial bacteria that can help restore your dog’s digestive balance. The probiotic powder is easy to administer and contains no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or gluten — only beneficial bacteria. Get it on Amazon Get it on Honest Paws Glandex Anal Gland Soft Chew Treats with Digestive Enzymes for Dogs. Glandex is a chewable veterinary preparation that relieves anal gland problems in dogs. The chews contain pumpkin seed powder to promote healthy emptying of the bowels and anal sacs. These chews also contain digestive enzymes that help break down nutrients. To use these treats, simply give one chew daily for seven days. If you have questions about your dog’s diet or health, contact your veterinarian before administering any medication or supplement. Get it on Amazon Get it on Chewy Bernie’s Perfect Poop Digestion & General Health Supplement for Dogs. Bernie’s Perfect Poop is an all-natural supplement for dogs. It helps support your dog’s digestive system and promotes healthy bowel movements. The formula helps regulate your dog’s digestive system, which can alleviate the symptoms of chronic constipation. It also contains probiotics that help restore your dog’s digestive health. Plus, natural antioxidants help support a healthy immune system. Get it on Amazon Get it on Chewy What Do I Feed a Constipated Dog?
It’s important to feed your pooch a high-quality diet regularly. However, if you have a dog with occasional constipation, here are some suggestions:
What Are the Risks of Constipation in Dogs?Constipation in dogs is an unpleasant situation that can cause pain and discomfort. If left untreated, it can develop into a more severe form called obstipation (when the dog cannot pass stool or gas) and impaction (blockage caused by stool stuck in the intestines). If the dog strains when trying to defecate, it also risks a rectal prolapse, which is a condition in which the rectum protrudes from the anus. Another consequence of long-term constipation is megacolon, which is when the colon becomes distended and loses its normal motility. How Can I Prevent Constipation in Dogs?Prevention is easier than cure. But, here are things you can do to prevent your dog from getting constipated:
What household item can I give my dog for constipation?Here are a few home remedies:. Pumpkin puree. ... . Canned dog food. ... . Dietary fiber supplements will increase fiber in their bodies, which will help soften their stool and regulate their bowel movements. ... . Access to fresh water makes sure they are well hydrated. ... . Exercise. ... . Stool softener or laxative. ... . Enema.. How do you make a constipated dog poop fast?Feed Your Dog Canned Pumpkin
One of the easiest and most common at-home treatments for constipation in dogs is to feed them some canned pumpkin. Pumpkin is a high-fiber food and is perfectly safe for a dog to ingest, as long as nothing else has been added to it.
What is a natural dog laxative?Try pure canned pumpkin or a pumpkin powder. Canned dog food—Elevated moisture content of canned food may help regulate the system. Powdered fiber supplements. Food and herbs, such as ginger, wheat bran, powdered psyllium seeds, and olive oil, may help.
How do you get a dog Unconstipated?What You Can Give Your Dog for Their Constipation. More exercise.. A stool softener or another laxative.. A prescription diet high in fiber.. Enema (administered by a professional, not at home, as there could be a risk of injury or toxicity if done incorrectly). What can I give my dog to poop right away?Foods that help with constipation in kids include prunes, apples and pears. They're nature's laxatives. These fruits contain a sugar called "sorbitol," which draws water into the bowels and softens the stool. Offer these foods with water to help with easier bowel movements.
Can I give my dog olive oil for constipation?You can add a small amount (half a teaspoon for small dogs, two teaspoons for large dogs) of olive or coconut oil to their food to help with mild constipation, but be careful in dogs who need a low-fat diet. Lack of exercise is another predisposing factor to pay attention to.
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