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You take your dog outside for his usual bathroom break, but he just sniffs around and walks back inside. No poop—again. It’s been two days, and you’re starting to worry. What should you do?
Most cases of constipation are mild and respond well to hydration and fiber-rich foods. However, in some instances, constipation can signal a more serious health problem that requires veterinary attention. Knowing when to intervene at home and when to seek medical help is crucial for your dog’s well-being.
Feeding constipated dogs doesn’t have to be difficult. I’ll walk you through fast remedies, foods that help, common causes, and when to call the vet to ensure your dog’s digestive system gets back on track.
Quick Fixes: What To Try First
A constipated dog can be uncomfortable and restless. Before worrying about medical intervention, try a few simple remedies at home to help your dog get relief. These methods work by stimulating digestion, increasing hydration, and softening stools for easier passage.
- A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin (fiber boost)
- Fresh water with a splash of bone broth (increases hydration)
- A 10-minute walk (stimulates digestion)
- Gentle belly massage (helps move things along)
- A little olive or coconut oil in food (lubricates stools)
If your dog hasn’t pooped in over 72 hours or is straining excessively, contact your vet immediately. Now, let’s go deeper into what foods can help relieve constipation.
If your dog struggles with digestive issues beyond constipation, check out our guide on the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs. Need help with the opposite problem? Read our article covering fast fixes for explosive situations.
What Can I Feed My Dog For Constipation?
If you’re wondering what to feed a constipated dog, just know that a proper diet can make all the difference. Feeding constipated dogs with fiber-rich, hydrating foods helps soften stools and promotes regular bowel movements.
A balanced diet plays a vital role in maintaining your dog’s overall digestive health. If your dog is mildly constipated, introducing certain foods can help ease discomfort and promote regular bowel movements.
High-Fiber, Constipation-Easing Foods:
Fiber helps bulk up stools and move them through the digestive tract. The following human foods can be added to your dog’s diet to encourage bowel movements naturally.
| Food | Why It Helps | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (without seeds) | Natural source of fiber & hydration | Sliced, skin-on, no seeds |
| Bone Broth | Increases hydration | Added to water or food |
| Carrots | Natural fiber, easy to digest | Grated, steamed, or raw |
| Celery | High in water & fiber | Chopped into small pieces |
| Oatmeal | Gentle on the stomach | Plain, cooked |
| Pumpkin | High in fiber & moisture | 1-2 tbsp per meal |
| Psyllium Husk | Adds bulk to stools | ¼ tsp mixed in food |
| Zucchini | Low-calorie, soft fiber | Cooked or raw, diced |
Gradually introduce fiber-rich foods to avoid sudden dietary changes that could upset your dog’s stomach.
Constipation-Reducing Diets
Two main dietary approaches are high-fiber and low-residue (highly digestible) diets.
- High-Fiber Diets: These diets promote gut motility by adding bulk to stools. Suitable for dogs with mild or occasional constipation.
- Low-Residue Diets: These are highly digestible and produce less stool, reducing strain on the digestive system. Often recommended for dogs with chronic digestive issues.
A veterinarian can help determine the best diet for your dog’s needs. Some dogs respond better to more fiber, while others need gentler, easily digestible foods.
What To Look For In A Low-Residue Diet
A low-residue diet is designed to minimize the amount of waste produced by the digestive system while still providing essential nutrients. These diets typically include:
- Highly digestible proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish
- Easily digestible carbohydrates like white rice or sweet potatoes
- Low insoluble fiber content to reduce stool bulk and ease digestion
- Added probiotics and prebiotics to support gut health
- Moisture-rich ingredients to improve hydration and stool consistency
Low-residue diets can benefit dogs with chronic constipation, sensitive stomachs, or other gastrointestinal disorders. Always consult a veterinarian before significantly changing your dog’s diet.
For more tips on implementing a low-residue diet, check out this Just For Dog’s blog post on how a low-residue diet can minimize the workload of the digestive system and support your pet’s overall health.
Foods To Avoid (May Worsen Constipation!)
Some foods may worsen constipation by causing blockages or firming up stools too much. Avoid giving your dog the following:
- Bones (especially cooked ones) – Risk of blockage
- Cheese & dairy – Can cause stomach upset
- Too much dry kibble – Lacks moisture
- Rawhide treats – Hard to digest
- Rice – May firm up stools too much
Additional At-Home Remedies
In addition to dietary changes, feeding constipated dogs should be paired with other supportive care methods. Hydration, physical activity, and digestive support can all play a role in ensuring your dog finds relief from constipation.
Increase Water Intake
Hydration plays a crucial role in preventing and relieving constipation. Dogs that don’t drink enough water are at a higher risk of developing hard, dry stools. To encourage drinking:
- Add bone broth to water for extra flavor
- Use a pet water fountain if your dog prefers running water
- Offer wet food instead of only kibble
Exercise To Stimulate Digestion
Physical activity naturally stimulates the digestive system and can encourage a constipated dog to go. Take your dog for:
- A brisk walk
- A game of fetch
- Light playtime in the yard
Gentle Belly Massage
Massaging your dog’s belly in a clockwise circular motion can help move stool along the intestines. Do this gently for a few minutes, monitoring your dog’s comfort level.
Olive Or Coconut Oil
Adding a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil to your dog’s meal can act as a natural stool softener, making it easier for them to pass waste.
Probiotics
Probiotic supplements are now available for dogs and may prove a great solution if it suffers from constipation. By supporting a healthy microbiome in your canine’s gut, your dog’s digestive health should improve within a few weeks of starting a probiotic regimen. But, as with all dietary changes, consult your vet before introducing this new variable.
Dog Poop Chart: What Your Dog’s Poop Says About Their Health
Understanding your dog’s stool can help identify digestive issues early. Here’s a quick guide to what different types of poop might indicate:
| Poop Type | What It Means | What To Do |
|---|---|---|
| Hard, dry pellets | Dehydration, low fiber | Increase water & fiber intake |
| Small, frequent poops | Possible stress or irritation | Monitor & adjust diet |
| Mucus-covered stool | Gut inflammation | See vet if persistent |
| No poop for 2+ days | Likely constipation | Try remedies, call vet if no change |
For a more detailed guide on poop colors and what they mean, check out our article: “Dog Poop Colors Decoded: A Crap-Tastic Guide to Canine Health.”
What Causes Constipation In Dogs?
Understanding the underlying causes of constipation can help prevent future occurrences. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Dehydration – A lack of water can cause stool to become hard and difficult to pass.
- Lack of Fiber – Dogs on low-fiber diets may not have enough bulk in their stool to promote regular bowel movements.
- Underlying Health Issues – Conditions such as impacted anal glands, neurological disorders, or intestinal obstructions can contribute to chronic constipation. If constipation is persistent, a vet visit is recommended.
When To See A Vet & What Will They Recommend?
If home remedies don’t work, veterinary care may be necessary. Contact your vet if your dog:
- Hasn’t pooped in over 72 hours
- Is vomiting or lethargic
- Strains, but nothing comes out
- Has blood in stool
Veterinary Treatments
Depending on the cause, your vet may recommend:
- Prescription laxatives
- Fluid therapy for dehydration
- Manual stool removal (in severe cases)
- Dietary changes for long-term digestive health
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog constipation is a common concern for pet owners, and feeding constipated dogs the right diet is one of the best ways to manage the issue.
Below, we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding symptoms, treatments, and prevention strategies to help you make the best decisions for your dog’s digestive health. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments!
How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Constipated Or Has A Blockage?
If your dog is straining to poop but producing little to no stool, or if they seem in pain while trying to defecate, they may be constipated. A blockage, however, is more serious and may include additional symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and a swollen abdomen.
If you suspect an obstruction, seek veterinary care immediately.
Will Dog Constipation Resolve Itself?
Mild cases of constipation often resolve with increased water intake, dietary adjustments, and exercise. However, intervention may be necessary if constipation lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms.
How Long Can A Dog Go Without Pooping?
Most dogs poop at least once every 24–48 hours. If your dog hasn’t pooped in over 72 hours, consult your vet.
Can I Give My Dog Human Laxatives?
No! Many human laxatives are toxic to dogs. Only use vet-approved stool softeners.
What If My Dog Is Straining But Nothing Comes Out?
This could indicate an obstruction, severe constipation, or an issue with the anal glands. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog is straining frequently without producing stool.
How Can I Prevent Constipation In My Dog?
To keep your dog’s digestive system functioning properly:
- Schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor their digestive health
- Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times
- Feed a balanced diet with adequate fiber
- Provide regular exercise to promote healthy digestion
- Avoid giving them bones, rawhides, or other difficult-to-digest treats
More Helpful Resources
Check out our other expert guides if you’re looking for more ways to support your dog’s health. Whether you’re looking for advice regarding sensitive stomachs, food sensitivities, or general digestive health (hint: probiotics and digestive enzymes), we have articles to help you make informed decisions. Explore our resources to keep your pup happy, healthy, and thriving!
Have you dealt with dog constipation before? What worked for your pup? Share your experience in the comments below!
