Constipation In Dogs

Constipation in dogs can come from lack of exercise or not enough bulk in the diet. Canine constipation also occurs when a dog gets used to holding it for long periods of time. Here's what you can do.

Quick Fix

If you feed dry or can dog food, add fresh pulverized vegetables. Carrots are a favorite with many dogs. Another quick fix for constipation is PLAIN can pumpkin. Buy several cans during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season in the U.S. because that may be the only time it is offered at your grocery store.

Don't waste the rest of the can if you don't use it all at once. It's good for dog health and actually helps stop diarrhea. (Practically a miracle food huh?) Heck, if it's summertime, you can turn the leftover into pumpkin-sicles and let your dog have an ice cube size one as a treat on the back porch.

What Does Your Dogs Exercise Have to do With it?

This is really important for massaging the internal organs and increasing blood flow throughout the body. If you've ever had surgery yourself and couldn't 'go' after all that lying around, you'll understand.

Long walks or a good game of fetch are both excellent choices.

If You Are Gone for Long Periods of Time

Your dog, wanting to be good, may have simply held it too long. Things can get backed up, plus it becomes a habit sometimes.

Here are a few other things you may want to try.

If your dog's poop seems dry, add 1/2 teaspoon to 1 Tablespoon of bran to each meal depending on size and weight. It will help the stools retain additional moisture. Powdered psyllium seed from the health food store works also, but use less; only 1/4 teaspoon to 2 teaspoons.

Mineral oil can be used on a temporary basis. 1/2 to 2 teaspoons to the food once a day (again, depending on the size of your dog) until he poops.

Mineral oil works because it remains undigested as it passes through. Prolonged use can create a dependency and take vitamin A from your dog's body.

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Remember your dog is less likely to go if you wake him from a nap for potty time. Get him moving first and he's much more apt to go in a shorter amount of time.

For a puppy constipation, especially in young orphan puppies, please read Puppy Constipation.

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