Constipation is a temporary health problem when a dog can’t be able to pass stool regularly. When it happens, feces become hard and dry and require strain. Sometimes it is a painful and uncomfortable situation for your pup. Constipation is common in canines and goes without the need for any treatment, but if it is chronic, it can lead to obstipation, where fecal matter retain in the intestines and rectum.
Chronic constipation is quite challenging for the pet owner and fur baby (especially if he is old). In this article, we talk about the tips that help in constipation and stop its recurrence.
Signs that your dog is constipated
The most common sign of constipation you observe is producing a small amount of poop that is dry and hard. Unsuccessful attempts to pass stool, scooting (dragging butt on the ground), walking in circles, losing appetite, crying, or whining are other signs of a constipated dog.
Causes of constipation in dogs
The colon’s primary function (large intestine) is to absorb fluids and move fecal to the rectum. But for some reason, fecal dryness makes stool hard and slows down colon movement, making your dog constipated.
Here are common factors that lead to constipation in dogs
- Diet: Lack of fiber in diet, dehydration, eating things that aren’t easily digested like bones, hair, and grass.
- Physical activity: Not getting enough daily exercise and walks can constrain your pooch.
- Psychological issues: Problems like fear, anxiety, stress, and other behavior disorders can affect digestion.
- Anal sacs impacted or anal glands abscess can cause pain in the anus region while defecating.
- Surgery and side effects of the medicine can lead to constipation problems.
- Old age: Senior dogs are more prone to constipation than young dogs because of numerous aspects like prostate enlargement.
- Tumors in the digestive tract can act as a barrier and cause constipation.
- Orthopedic issues like back and knee pain, arthritis, fracture, or injuries can cause pain and discomfort while squats for bowel movements.
How to relieve constipation in dogs quickly?
- Use wipes: Gently move wet wipes in a circular motion around the dog’s anus, aiding in bowel movements. Mama dogs usually stimulate bowel movement in pups by licking their nether regions.
- Squirting water: In this method, you must gently spray normal water on the dog’s butt. It will stimulate the anus to pass stool but do it carefully because that area is sensitive, and your doggy gets hurt, stressed, or nervous during this procedure.
- Ice cube technique: First, you need to rub some ice cubes gently around the constipated dog’s butt hole. If it doesn’t work, place ice cubes on the butt area for a short time. This trick helps in contracting muscles and leads to pushing out stuck stools.
- Massage: Belly massage can help a pup with constipation and excessive gas problems. Massaging the dog’s tummy improves blood flow and stimulates poop. Lie your doggy on his back and give him a soft run in a clockwise direction. You can also use massage oils that are readily available online.
- Change in Diet: Add foods to the dog’s meal that contains water for moisture and fiber to make stool bulky and soft. Pumpkin is rich in nutrients like fiber, magnesium, and water that aid in moving food forward in the digestive tract and adding extra bulk to the poop. Use of ready-made or natural probiotic like goat’s milk help in the growth of beneficial bacteria in the guts. But avoid any bottled products that contain sugar and high calories.
- Regular physical activity: Most dogs poop after doing physical activities such as playing outdoor games, walking and exercise. Note down when your puppy passes poop and repeat it every day at the same time. It will help them to understand when to poop and become a routine habit.
- Environment: Almost all dogs take time to find their favorite place to potty. You may also notice their favored spot mostly on grassy areas instead of the cemented surface. When they find an ideal location, avoid pulling the leash and give them sufficient time.