What can you Give Your Dog for Constipation?

If you feel that your dog is straining to defecate, you might be thinking it’s constipation. However, the truth is that your dog might be having diarrhea. Most of the dogs will strain a lot due to intestinal cramping during diarrhea.

How To Find Out Your Dog Is Constipated?

If your dog is constipated you may observe that despite eating a normal amount of food, your dog is defecating less than usual. The consistency of the stool is dry and hard. If constipation goes on a long time, your pooch may lose its appetite and might vomit due to the back up in his colon.

Causes of Constipation in Dogs

Your dog can get constipated due to many reasons including: 

• Medications 

• Dietary indiscretion such as eating garbage, plastic, and bones, etc.

• Tumors in the GI tract 

• Orthopedic pain 

• Matted fecal material in fur blocking the anal opening

• A metabolic disease that causes dehydration or electrolyte problems

• Behavioral issues (anxiety) 

What to Do If Your Dog Is Constipated?

It’s OK to try home remedies for constipated dogs as long as the symptoms are mild and have been going on for less than 24 hours. Here are some of the home remedies for your constipated dog:

• Pumpkin: Feeding pumpkin is great to treat your dog’s constipation. Pumpkin is high in water content and a great source of fiber. You can give one tablespoon to three tablespoons of pumpkin’s puree to your dog. Repeat this for 2-3 times a day. 

• Supplement – You can give supplements to your dog to aid constipation. Give supplements that contain additives such as folic acid, acidophilus, and vegetable enzymes. Don’t forget to consult with your doctor before giving any supplements to your dog. 

• Milk of magnesia – Feeding your dog with milk of magnesia is another home remedy to aid your dog’s constipation. A small dose of milk of magnesia is all that your furry friend might need. However, ensure to consult with your vet first.

• Bran – Bran such as oats and wheat has a high amount of fiber. Add bran to your dog’s meal can prevent constipation. Consult with your vet to find about the right amount you need to add to your dog’s food. 

• Psyllium – It works by absorbing water and bulking feces in the colon. It may take up to 72 hours for laxative action to occur. You can buy psyllium husk powder from your nearest pharmacy. Look for the unflavored, unsweetened version of psyllium. Consult with your doctor to find the right amount for your dog. Ensure to give it with plenty of water or other liquids, otherwise, it won’t be too effective.

• Exercise – Making changes in a sedentary lifestyle can help treat constipation. Adding exercise to your dog’s routine will only stimulate movement in the GI tract, it will also help with obesity. Set a goal of taking your dog for a walk daily for at least 45 minutes. 

When to Seek Veterinary Care?

You might need to take your dog to the vet: 

• You’ve tried one or two home remedies without improvement. 

• Your dog has been constipated for more than 24 hours.

• Your dog is vomiting, seems distressed, or is not eating.

• If your dog is on any medications. 

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