Have you ever noticed that your dog’s stool is oddly shaped? Perhaps it’s smaller than usual, and, after you’ve cleaned it up, you notice that it doesn’t have the typical brown color. If you look around, you might notice other changes in your dog’s behavior. They might be struggling to go the bathroom, or they may be whining or whimpering throughout the day. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, then they may be suffering from a bout of constipation. Read on to learn what you can do to help!
The Signs of Constipation in Dogs
To diagnose your dog with constipation, your veterinarian will need to do a physical evaluation. This will involve listening to their abdomen to make sure there are no obvious abnormalities. Your veterinarian will also want to see if they are able to pass a stool. If they are unable to, or if they show any other signs of discomfort, then it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
The Causes of Constipation in Dogs
There are a number of possible causes of constipation in dogs. Some common causes include:
The symptoms of acute, or sudden, cases of canine constipation are easy to spot. Your pet may start to whine or whimper when you try and encourage them to go the bathroom. They might also start exhibiting behaviors like pawing at the ground. They may also try to relieve themselves by attempting to scoot their butt across the floor.
Home Remedies to Help a Constipated Dog Poop
While there are several medications available to treat severe cases of canine constipation, there are also several home remedies that you can try. Most of these involve a combination of dietary changes as well as increased exercise and water consumption.
When to See The Vet for Constipation
If your dog is suffering from chronic, or long-term, constipation, then it’s important that you see your vet as soon as possible. Chronic cases can lead to a build-up of fecal matter in the colon, which can be toxic to your pet. Additionally, the longer that your dog is dealing with constipation, the worse it may get. Your vet can help to determine what is causing the constipation and can then recommend a course of action to help get your dog back to normal.
Bottom Line
Constipation can be a common problem for pets, especially as they age. If your dog is struggling with this problem, then it’s important that you take the necessary steps to help them. Start by providing them with plenty of water and increasing their intake of dietary fiber. If these changes aren’t enough, then visit your vet to discuss other options.
