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Constipation in dogs is very common. At some point during any dog’s life, they’ll likely experience it at least once. Both of my dogs have. In most cases, it’s a temporary disturbance that passes within a day or two. So, if you’re wondering, “How do I treat dog constipation at home?” or “What can I give my dog for constipation?” you’ve come to the right place. I explore 12 home remedies for dog constipation, the best natural laxatives for dogs, and when to see a vet. So, let’s see if I can help you boot the scoot at home.
What Is Dog Constipation?
Constipation in dogs occurs when they are having trouble passing a stool or their poop is particularly dry or hard. It’s pretty common, but just like when we are constipated, it is uncomfortable and often painful. Dog constipation can cause stress and further health conditions, such as anal gland problems, rectal prolapse, other disorders of the rectum, and colitis, most of which require veterinary treatment.
Symptoms Of Dog Constipation
There are many symptoms of constipation in dogs, including:
- Straining to poop
- Whimpering
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Circling and squatting more frequently than normal
- Scooting
- Small, hard stools that resemble pebbles
- Small amounts of watery feces (sometimes containing mucus)
We have a guide on dog constipation that provides more information on the causes, veterinary treatment, prevention, and more.
When To See A Vet For Dog Constipation
If you’re wondering when dog constipation is an emergency, you are not alone. Although dog constipation usually passes with home remedies and natural laxatives, your dog might need treatment from a vet. Before I get into how to treat dog constipation at home, it’s essential to know when you need to see a vet.
- Your dog hasn’t pooped in 48 hours
- Appears to be in a lot of pain
- Abnormally lethargic
- Has a swollen abdomen
- Is vomiting
- There’s blood in their stools
- If you suspect they’ve swallowed a foreign object
Watch this quick video where Dr. Greer, DVM, tells us how to help a constipated dog and why seeking medical attention for constipated dogs is essential if it doesn’t resolve quickly.
Dog Constipation vs Blockage
It can be challenging to know if your dog has just constipation or if they have an internal blockage that is causing their constipation. Bowel obstructions in dogs are dangerous and can be fatal within days without veterinary treatment. A foreign object, tumor, or a rupture could cause an obstruction. This is why it is imperative to take to your dog to the vet if they haven’t pooped in two days or notice or suspect any of the above symptoms. Blockages are an emergency. So, if you’re in doubt whether it’s constipation or a blockage, please see your vet.
12 Dog Constipation Home Remedies
If your dog is blocked up and you’re wondering what you can give your dog for constipation, there are a few home remedies you can try. These remedies range from things dogs can eat for constipation to things you can do to help promote regular bowel movements.
1. Increase Water Intake
The most common reason dogs are constipated is dehydration. It’s important to ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If they aren’t drinking enough, add a little water to their food bowl to increase their water intake. Many dog owners find that using a dog water fountain, with the sound of trickling water, encourages dogs to drink more.
2. Regular Exercise
Just as dehydration is a common cause of dog constipation, so is a lack of exercise. Exercise helps to move things about, stimulate their metabolism, and regulate blood flow, which is why dogs often poop on their walks. If it’s safe, increase their activities to help get things moving again. A lack of exercise during surgery recovery is one of the main reasons why pups become constipated. A dog lift harness can sometimes help with exercise during recovery.
3. Canned Dog Food
My young Doxie is prone to constipation, which our vet said is likely because she is a small breed. When she is not regular, I increase her wet food intake to boost the moisture content and reduce the kibble in her bowl. This usually is enough to help loosen things up. We have a guide on the best wet dog food to add to their diet to help them be more regular.
4. High-Fiber Dog Food
As non-soluble fiber moves through the gut, it quickens the digestive movement. Picking a high-fiber diet can help with GI tract regulation and healthier stools. A high-fiber diet is any diet with a fiber value of 6% or more. You can find the fiber value on the guaranteed analysis label on most packaging. We have picked our favorite high-fiber dog diets to make choosing one easier. Remember to speak to your vet before changing your dog’s diet for a medical issue.
5. Pumpkin Puree
Giving your dog pumpkin puree is a commonly a commonly used natural remedy for constipation in dogs. Pumpkin is a prebiotic fiber that promotes good gut bacteria and stimulates intestinal water absorption. This natural ingredient is gentle on the digestive system, and thankfully, most dogs love it. Cans of pumpkin puree are readily available in grocery stores. Just be sure to buy 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling contains ingredients that might upset their tummy further, such as spices, sugar, and fats. Add one or two spoons of pumpkin to their food bowl each meal.
Our Personal Experience Using Pumpkin Puree For Dog Constipation
My senior dog, Daisy, sometimes gets constipation due to her lower activity level. Due to mobility issues, she cannot get out as much and is not as active as she used to be. She is also fussy with her food, and these two things can lead to constipation. After seeing her straining, I spoke with our vet, who suggested trying some plain pumpkin puree with her food. This has proven very effective for her, helping things move along in about a day or so. I add a few tablespoons, about two or three, to her food at mealtimes when she is constipated and at least one tablespoon for her daily meals.
Doing this helps her bowels stay healthy due to the fiber, adding extra flavor and moisture to her food, which she likes. It also has dramatically reduced the times she has to strain to poop. Plus, pumpkin puree is inexpensive and easy to find. It is much easier for her to eat and tastes a lot better than taking medication.
– Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Parent, Canine Journal Research & Writing
6. Dog-Safe Vegetables
Giving Fido a dog-safe vegetable can help push things through and ease constipation. Broccoli, carrots, celery, and zucchini are high in fiber and can help regulate their digestive system. Most dogs love crunchy snacks, and carrots are a big hit with my pups. Plus, these treats are low in calories and a healthy snack. Be sure to check out our list of fruits and vegetables that aren’t safe for Fido.
7. Yogurt
Yogurt with probiotic strains of live and active cultures can help ease your dog’s constipation. Not all yogurt contains probiotics, so it’s essential to check the label and make sure it is natural, not sweetened or flavored. A tablespoon of plain natural or Greek yogurt on top of your dog’s daily food can help restore a healthy bacterial balance within the gut and boost their immune system.
8. Bone Broth
Adding bone broth to your dog’s food is not only super tasty but can also help soften hard stools, thanks to the moisture. Brutus Bone Broth is a popular and convenient option to pour or mix into their food. It also has lots of other health benefits. If you find your dog isn’t drinking water, you can give this to them as a drink, which can help loosen things up.
9. Dietary Fiber Supplements
A lack of fiber is one of the most common causes of dog constipation. Adding dietary fiber supplements such as PetHonesty’s High Fiber Pumpkin Flavored Powder Digestive Aid is a convenient way to add fiber to their diet. It also contains psyllium seed husk powder, a natural laxative that helps with regularity. Following the feeding guidelines is essential, as too much fiber can cause diarrhea.
10. Probiotics
Adding probiotics to your dog’s mealtime can help regulate your dog’s digestive tract and help them produce healthier stools. Probiotics also have a wide range of other health benefits. Probiotics come in many forms, such as powders, capsules, chewables, and more. I recommend Vital Planet Flora Dog Probiotic, which is also highly recommended by our supplement expert to maintain normal digestive function.
11. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural laxative for dogs and helps to soften their stools. For medium-sized dogs, mix a teaspoon of coconut oil into their bowls or let them lick it off a spoon. Most dogs love the taste of coconut oil; I know both my dogs do. Please don’t give them too much coconut oil, as it can lead to weight gain and diarrhea. Raw Paw’s Organic Coconut Oil is one of my favorite options for oral and topical use for skin problems.
12. Olive Oil
Adding a drizzle of olive oil to your dog’s meals can help ease dog constipation. Like coconut oil, it is a natural laxative that lubricates the digestive system, so it’s important not to give them too much. Otherwise, you risk doggy diarrhea.
Complications Of Untreated Dog Constipation
Dogs shouldn’t go longer than 48 hours without pooping, and if they do, it can cause further complications. This list isn’t exhaustive, but it includes the most common complications of dog constipation.
- Megacolon. Your dog’s intestines and colon could become enlarged, dilated, and incompetent. Megacolon can lead to the following issues.
- Obstipation. This is a severe form of constipation that can occur when megacolon and constipation are left untreated. It is often associated with a serious, chronic, permanent, or irreversible medical condition.
- Malnutrition. A lack of appetite can lead to rapid weight loss and nutrient deficiency, leading to other health problems.
- Rectal Injury. Straining to poop can lead to rectal tears or strains.
- Rectal Prolapse. Too much pressure from straining can lead to the rectal lining protruding from the anus.
- Secondary Health Issues. Constipation in dogs can lead to further health problems, such as urinary tract infections, perineal hernias, and more. It can also make current health conditions worse.
What Will A Vet Do For Dog Constipation?
A vet will perform a physical examination, which may include an X-ray to identify potential obstructions. Sometimes, a vet might request laboratory blood and urine analysis to check for systemic problems. In the meantime, your vet might prescribe dog constipation medicine such as lactulose or dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, which are clinical-grade laxatives. In severe cases, your dog might need manual removal of the impacted stool, an enema, or gastrointestinal surgery.
How Pet Insurance Can Help
Although constipation is usually treatable at home with natural remedies, sometimes it requires medical intervention. Without it, it can worsen, lead to other health issues, and may be fatal. Having pet insurance can help families manage the financial costs of emergency care. Constipation in dogs can quickly become a life-threatening emergency. Our pet insurance experts share their pet insurance reviews to help you find the best options for you and your pup. We also provide a free quote widget below to pull prices from our top companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that there are lots of questions about dog constipation and how to help our pups. If your question isn’t listed below, please let us know in the comments, and we’ll get back to you.
How Long Can A Dog Go Without Pooping?
Most dogs poop several times a day. If your dog goes two days without pooping, you need to take them to the vet for an examination to rule out severe or life-threatening problems.
Can Dog Constipation Cause Vomiting?
Yes, dog constipation can cause vomiting. If left untreated, their colon might become so packed with feces they aren’t able to empty it on their own. This can lead to vomiting, lethargy, and other serious problems. If your dog is constipated and vomiting, you must take them to the vet.
Are Certain Dog Breeds More Prone To Constipation Than Others?
Yes, some dog breeds are more likely to experience constipation than others. Smaller breeds, like my Doxie, have smaller digestive tracts, which can increase the likelihood of constipation. On the other end of the scale, large and giant breeds, like Great Danes, have slower digestive transit times, which can cause firm stools. Similarly, senior dogs have slower digestive systems, too. If your dog often suffers from constipation, your vet might recommend implementing one of the above home remedies for dog constipation regularly.
Can Stress Cause Constipation?
Yes, stress and anxiety can cause constipation. If you suspect this is causing the issue and your vet gives you the all-clear, consider offering your dog CBD treats or CBD oil. CBD is a natural remedy that lowers a dog’s stress levels and hopefully stops constipation.
Can I Treat Puppy Constipation At Home?
Generally speaking, you treat puppy constipation the same way you would treat an adult. However, you need to feed them the appropriate amount for their size, for example, a smaller spoonful of pumpkin puree or yogurt. Some dietary supplements and natural laxatives for dogs are unsuitable for puppies, so it’s important to discuss puppy constipation with your vet first.
Time For A Diet Change?
If your dog has regular digestive issues, it might be wise to discuss changing your dog’s diet with your vet. We have reviewed our favorite dog food delivery services, some of which you can tailor to your dog’s dietary needs. We have also reviewed several fresh dog food options to help with better hydration. Whatever diet you change to, it’s vital to pick a high-quality, balanced diet and gradually switch to avoid further digestive issues.
Does your dog regularly suffer from constipation? Perhaps you think I should include another natural remedy for dog constipation in my list? We would love to hear from our readers, so please get in touch with us in the comments section below.
Why Trust Canine Journal
Emma is a dog mom to two rescue dogs, a senior called Bonkers and a young Doxie called Chips. Her small breed suffers from constipation several times a year, and so far, increasing her wet food content has helped massively. Emma is passionate about sharing her doggy experience and knowledge with her readers. She works with a professional team to make Canine Journal a trusted, go-to resource for all things dog.
