Constipation in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Constipation in dogs, also known as obstipation, is a common problem that can cause discomfort and sometimes pain. Dogs that struggle to pass stools may become irritable and listless as a result. In this article, we discuss the main causes, symptoms and natural remedies for constipation in dogs.

Causes of Constipation in Dogs

There are several factors that can contribute to constipation in dogs, including diet, hydration and exercise. Here are the most common causes:

1. Unbalanced Diet

A diet low in fibre can lead to constipation. Dietary fibre helps normalise colonic transit time, whether a dog's stools are running too loose or too hard [1]. On the other hand, too much calcium and bones in the diet can contribute to hard, dry stools.

2. Inadequate Hydration

If a dog does not drink enough water, the stools can become dry and harder to pass. Dogs need sufficient fluids to keep their stools soft and loose.

3. Lack of Exercise

Dogs with a sedentary lifestyle, or who get too little exercise, often have sluggish bowel movements. Regular exercise stimulates peristalsis (contractions of the intestines) and helps prevent constipation

4. Physical Obstructions

Constipation can also be caused by physical obstructions, such as swallowed foreign objects, an enlarged prostate in male dogs, or blocked anal glands. These conditions can block normal bowel movements and cause discomfort.

Symptoms of Constipation

Dogs with constipation often display a number of clear symptoms. It is important to recognise these signs in good time to prevent further complications:

• Irregular bowel movements: If your dog has not had any stool for more than 24 hours, this may indicate constipation.
• Difficulty passing stools: Dogs that are visibly straining but produce little or no stool are likely suffering from constipation.
• Hard, dry stools: When your dog does pass stools, they may be hard and dry.
• Discomfort or pain: Dogs may become restless and show signs of pain, especially whilst defecating.

Natural Remedies for Constipation in Dogs

Fortunately, there are several natural remedies you can use to relieve constipation in your dog. These remedies are usually safe and easy to add to your dog’s diet.

1. High-Fibre Nutrition

Adding high-fibre vegetables to your dog’s diet can improve bowel movements. Vegetables such as pumpkin, green beans, courgette, and carrots are high in fibre, which helps to soften stools and promote bowel transit.

• Pumpkin is particularly effective, as it contains both soluble and insoluble fibre, which helps with constipation.
• Add a small amount of cooked or puréed pumpkin to your dog’s food to promote bowel movements.

2. Plant-Based Oils

Plant-based oils such as olive oil and coconut oil can act as natural laxatives by lubricating the intestines.

• Add one to two teaspoons of olive oil to your dog’s meal. This helps to soften the stools and ease their passage through the intestines.

3. Probiotics

Probiotics help restore the gut flora and support healthy digestion. A healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut helps improve bowel transit and prevent constipation, and vets increasingly consider gut-microbiome support alongside diet when managing constipation in dogs and cats [2].

• Probiotic supplements specially designed for dogs are a good addition to your dog’s diet. These can improve digestion and prevent constipation.

4. Soothing Herbs

Natural herbs such as linseed and marshmallow root can have a soothing effect on the gut and help to soften stools.

• Flaxseed can be added to your dog’s food to create a mucous layer that allows stools to move more easily through the intestines.

5. Adequate Hydration

Make sure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water. Dehydration can lead to dry, hard stools, which worsens constipation.

• Consider feeding your dog wet food if they aren’t drinking enough water. This helps them take in extra fluids and promotes healthy digestion.

When Should You Consult a Veterinarian?

Although natural remedies are often effective in treating mild constipation, there are situations in which you should consult a veterinarian:

• • Persistent constipation: If the constipation does not improve after a few days, it is important to seek medical help.
  • Other symptoms: If your dog shows symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite or pain, this may indicate a more serious underlying problem.
  • Foreign objects: If you suspect your dog has swallowed something unusual, you should consult a veterinarian immediately to prevent complications.

Conclusion

Constipation in dogs can be caused by a number of factors, including diet, hydration, exercise and physical obstructions. Fortunately, there are several natural remedies that can help regulate your dog’s bowel movements. High-fibre nutrition, plant-based oils, probiotics and adequate hydration are some of the effective ways to relieve constipation. Remember that a veterinarian should be consulted if the constipation persists or if other worrying symptoms occur.