Mary Allen
What can help with constipation or if the dog does not poop?
A chair loosening text.
No kidding, of course reading this article won’t solve constipation.
But we will explain how you can recognize a constipation in your dog and how you can solve a constipation in the dog.
You will also find out what causes it and when you should go to the vet.
Have fun while reading!
In a nutshell: What helps my dog with constipation?
If your dog has constipation for more than two days or suffers from it very frequently, you should have the cause clarified by the veterinarian. This also applies if you notice or suspect that he has swallowed a foreign object.
If you’re sure the constipation is harmless, make sure your dog is drinking plenty of fluids and going for quiet walks to get the bowels moving.
Symptoms and diagnosis of constipation in dogs
Haven’t seen your dog defecate in a while? Or watching him try and just not make it?
These can be the first signs of constipation!
Depending on what your dog ate, this can happen. However, it becomes dangerous if your dog does not manage to get away for a long time.
Signs of constipation in dogs are:
- Dog wants to defecate but can’t
- General malaise
- restlessness
- gas
- colic
- stomach pain
- hard belly
- loss of appetite
- Vomit
If your dog’s constipation lasts longer than two days, you absolutely need to take him to the vet!
Diseases such as intestinal inflammation or tumors as well as an enlarged prostate or a foreign body can be behind the blockage.
Danger!
If a constipation remains untreated, there is a risk of intestinal obstruction, which can cause parts of the intestine to die and, in the worst case, cost your dog its life! So you have to keep a close eye on your dog’s business.
3 possible causes of constipation in dogs
1. Improper or deficient diet
Constipation is more common when you eat the wrong or poor diet. Mainly due to too many bones when barfing or too much dry food.
Poo that is too hard can also cause pain for your dog.
The symptoms associated with constipation can vary from dog to dog. But the clearest thing is always that he tries to defecate but just can’t.
If you suspect that it’s the food or the amount of food, you know what to do.
If you are unsure, just contact a dog nutritionist. He/She can work with you to create a suitable feeding plan for your dog.
Good to know:
Eating too much fiber can also lead to constipation!
2. Dehydration and/or lack of exercise
A lack of fluids and/or exercise also promotes constipation.
So make sure your dog has access to fresh water 24 hours a day and make sure they get enough exercise.
3. Foreign bodies in the intestines
If your dog has swallowed something that he shouldn’t have eaten, that can also be a reason for his constipation.
Some dogs are not picky about it. From golf and tennis balls to Lego bricks, hair clips, chestnuts and biscuits including packaging, a lot has already been found in the intestines of our dogs.
Particular caution is required here, because a foreign body in the intestine can trigger a life-threatening intestinal obstruction.
If you have noticed that your dog has swallowed an indigestible object, you should immediately take him to the nearest veterinary clinic!
Good to know:
Sometimes the cause of constipation cannot be identified directly. It is therefore important that you take your dog to the vet at the slightest suspicion of serious danger!
If you are sure that your dog is otherwise fine and it is only a mild, rather harmless constipation, you can try to solve it with home remedies.
When to the vet?
If your dog suffers from constipation, it can cause him great pain and in the worst case even be life-threatening!
That’s why it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog’s defecation.
You should see a vet immediately if:
- The constipation lasts longer than 2 days;
- You know or suspect that your dog has swallowed a foreign object;
- Your dog has severe stomach pains and does not want to be touched there;
- You suspect that an illness could be behind it;
- Your dog also has a fever or vomits frequently;
- you are at a loss.
Hey! Whenever you get stuck, there’s no shame in asking! You can’t be an expert in every area and our dogs digestion is really complex. But do you know who is available to you almost around the clock, 365 days a year for all your questions and concerns?
Laxatives: what has a laxative effect on dogs?
If you know for sure that there are no life-threatening reasons behind the constipation, you can help your dog with a few simple home remedies.
For example with:
- A gentle abdominal massage (if he likes).
- Take quiet walks, this stimulates the intestinal activity.
- Enough liquid. You are also welcome to feed his food soaked or soupy.
Conclusion
If the dog is constipated, it can be painful and even life-threatening for him. However, there are also harmless blockages that resolve themselves.
If you don’t know exactly what the problem is with your dog or if it has been struggling to defecate for more than two days, you should definitely consult a veterinarian!