Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies for Constipation in Dogs

Constipation in dogs that occurs only temporarily and occasionally is not a cause for alarm. Constipation can be chronic in medical terms. To avoid late fatal consequences, it is important to seek immediate help from a veterinarian. You will learn how to recognize when your dog is having problems defecating and what you should do.

Constipation can cause your dog to have difficulty defecating. Digested food accumulates in the colon, causing it to become painful and difficult to remove.

Constipation in dogs: What to expect?

Constipation can resolve itself and your dog will recover quickly. A vet visit is recommended if constipation persists for a long time with your dog. Don’t wait too long. Constipation may cause the intestinal wall to be stretched, resulting in a so-called “megacolon”.

Overstretching of the intestinal wall is irreversible and affects digestion permanently. The greater the chance of recovery, the earlier symptoms are identified, and the causes are found and treated.

Constipation is noticeable in dogs if you notice these symptoms

Constipation is a condition where your dog defecates in the usual squatting posture, but nothing comes up. You may see some feces, but they are dry and difficult to pass. Occasionally, a pseudodiarrhea is added. In this case, an animal will excrete blood and mucus.

The dog may also drag its bottom along the floor. This is often the result of anal gland swelling.

Constipation can cause pain and discomfort to your dog. It can be manifested by a lack of appetite, listlessness and other abnormal dog behaviors.

Indigestion: causes and symptoms

Constipation can be caused by a variety of factors, from an improper diet to insufficient exercise and even underlying diseases. Too little fluid and too much bones are two common feeding mistakes. This can occur if you spit incorrectly.

Constipation can occur if your dog is given a large amount of dry food, but not enough water. Poor grooming can lead to a smeared anus, especially with long-haired dog breeds. Feces may also be difficult to pass.

Lack of exercise can lead to intestinal sluggishness. The digested foods are not transported properly, they accumulate in the large intestine and become increasingly solid. Lack of exercise can have many causes: the length and frequency of the walks may be too short; there are not enough dog sports for your breed of dog or it is difficult to move the four-legged companion. It is true, for instance, of obesity, joint pain, hip issues, arthrosis and rheumatism.

Constipation can be caused by inflammation and other diseases.

Defecation can be painful and difficult for your dog if there are abscesses or inflammations in the anal area. Defecation becomes painful for the quadruped, so it “holds back”. This causes the food to accumulate in the intestine, causing a blockage and increasing the pain.

The same thing happens when foreign objects, such as hair or small objects swallowed, trigger an obstruction in the intestine or when a tumour in the anal area prevents digestion of food. Constipation is often associated with chronic diseases like hypothyroidism.

Triggers include side effects of medications and mental stress

Constipation is a common side effect of some medications, such as dehydration tablets that are given to dogs who have heart problems. Some painkillers and tranquilizers can also cause digestive problems.

Emotional problems can also affect the digestion of your dog. For example, if his daily routine suddenly changes or he is in an unfamiliar environment. This can affect the stomach quickly.

Constipation in dogs: Home remedies to treat and prevent it

Constipation can be relieved by feeding your dog the right food and drinking enough water. Raw fibers, which contain dietary fibers, are essential for dog nutrition. They improve stool consistency and stimulate intestinal activity. You can help your pet by giving them plenty of water. For dental care, give your dog soft chew sticks made from buffalo skin instead of bones.

Mild laxatives, such as psyllium or lactulose husks, can help soften accumulated feces so the quadrupeds can eliminate them. This can also be achieved by using flaxseed or bran. These home remedies should be taken with caution and in small doses. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian in advance.

What other remedies are there to help dogs with constipation?

Exercise can help dissolve constipation, along with high-fiber food and lots of water. You can help your dog’s bowel function by taking him for a short walk 30 minutes to 1 hour after eating.

If your dog seems to be listless and apathetic, it could be due to a serious illness. It’s possible that your pet ate something unpleasant and it has stuck in his intestines. This must be clarified by a vet as soon as possible. If constipation continues after two days you should also visit the veterinarian.

What should the vet do if your dog is constipated?

The veterinarian will talk with you and examine the causes of your digestive disorder. The veterinarian will determine the correct treatment based on the diagnosis.

A colonoscopy is one possible examination. Another would be the removal of tissue samples. If an X-ray or ultrasound examination shows that a tumor or foreign body is blocking the intestine, surgery is often required. The veterinarian may administer intravenous fluids if the body is severely dehydrated.

You can ask your veterinarian for homeopathic remedies if the constipation does not seem to be chronic. Nux vomica D6, Bryonia D6 and Graphites D12 are some examples of homeopathic remedies that can help with the treatment.