Why is My Dog Constipated? Signs and Symptoms

Constipation in dogs is very common and ranks among the top five digestive issues seen in dogs at animal hospitals. If you’ve noticed your pup isn’t pooping as usual, you may be wondering, “Why is my dog constipated?” 

Dogs can become constipated due to factors like inadequate fibre intake, dehydration, lack of exercise, or by eating things like wood and rubber bands. Health conditions, such as tumours or arthritis, can also contribute. 

Keep reading to learn more about constipation in dogs and what home remedies you can give to get those bowels moving again!

What is Constipation in Dogs?

Constipation occurs when a dog’s bowel movement becomes infrequent and they struggle to pass a normal stool. 

When the stool remains in the colon for too long, the water is reabsorbed, leading to small, dry, rock-hard feces being passed. In general, healthy dogs poop once or twice a day but your own dog’s routine may differ slightly. 

If you notice your dog isn’t pooping as often as they usually do, they may be constipated. 

Photo by Robert Larsson on Unsplash

Why is My Dog Constipated?

So, what exactly causes these “poop pauses?” Let’s break down the most common culprits.

Your dog’s diet

A dog’s diet plays a big role in their digestive health. Too little fibre can make passing feces difficult. 

Additionally, if your dog eats items that are difficult to digest like rocks and sticks, they may find it hard to poop as their body struggles to break down these non-food items. Eating these types of non-nutritional objects is known as pica and can lead to blockages in the digestive tract and, consequently, constipation.

Dehydration

Another reason your dog may be struggling to poop is because they don’t have enough water in their digestive system. If your dog is dehydrated and not getting enough water, their stool can become hard and dry, making bowel movements difficult. 

Lack of exercise

A sedentary life might also be causing your dog’s constipation. Regular exercise helps stimulate a dog’s digestive system and promotes regular bowel movements. 

Stress and anxiety

Big changes in a dog's life like moving, a new pet in the home, or even a noisy environment can cause stress and anxiety in dogs and make them reluctant to poop.

Other signs of stress in dogs include: 

1. Lip licking
2. Pacing
3. Hiding 
4. Yawning
5. Shaking

If you notice these signs, it’s important to create a “safe space” for your dog in your home. This is a spot where your dog can retreat when they’re feeling uneasy and don’t want to be disturbed or petted. 

Medical issues or medication

Certain medical conditions and medications can also disrupt your pup’s normal poop routine. Health problems that reduce or remove the peristaltic waves of your dog’s colon can cause constipation as the fecal matter within the colon is not moving along as it should.

Medical concerns that can lead to constipation include:

• Hypothyroidism: A deficiency of the thyroid hormone
• Megacolon: The colon becomes enlarged 
• Pelvic problems: Issues with the pelvis can cause a compression of the colon
• Pain: Pain caused by conditions like arthritis can make dogs reluctant to strain to poop 

Blockages within the digestive tract can also result in constipation including tumours or fur matting around their backend. 

Certain medications can also lead to constipation in dogs including:

• Opioids
• Antihistamines
• Diuretics

Additionally, dogs who have recently had surgery may also be constipated due to the anesthesia they were given.

Symptoms of Dog Constipation

Not sure if your fur baby is dealing with constipation? Keeping an eye on your dog’s bathroom habits can help you figure out when their routine is off. 

Here are the tell-tail signs of constipation in dogs:

1. Infrequent bowel movements: If your pup hasn’t had a normal stool in over a day or two, they are likely constipated.
2. Straining or discomfort while pooping: Notice your dog hunched over or straining without success? This is often a sign something isn’t quite right.
3. Dry, hard stools: Passing small, dry stools often signals your dog is constipated. 
4. Painful abdomen: Very constipated dogs may develop a tight, bloated belly. 
5. Blood or mucous: The presence of blood or mucous in your dog’s poop can also be a sign of constipation. 
6. Loss of appetite: Dogs who feel uncomfortable due to constipation may become disinterested in their food and not want to eat. 
7. Lethargy: If your normally bouncy pup seems sluggish, it might be due to constipation. 

If you spot one or more of these symptoms, it’s time to investigate. Luckily, there are several home remedies that might help a mildly constipated pup. 

Dog Constipation Home Remedies

If your dog is constipated, there are a few simple tricks to help get things… moving! Here are some gentle remedies you can try at home:

• Add fibre to your dog’s diet: Mix a small amount of canned pumpkin or wheat bran into your dog’s meals. These high-fibre snacks can help soften stool and relieve constipation in some dogs. 

• Encourage more exercise: Daily walks and playtime can stimulate your dog’s digestion, helping them have more regular bowel movements. 

• Hydration: Encourage your dog to drink more by giving them bone broth, yogurt, or wet dog food to add moisture to their diet.

• Massage their belly: If your dog’s abdomen isn’t tender, you can encourage things to move along with a gentle massage. 

Sometimes, a little TLC at home can make all the difference!

Photo by Courtney Wentz on Unsplash

When to See a Veterinarian

While many cases of constipation in dogs resolve with home remedies, there are times when your fur baby needs professional help. If your dog hasn’t passed a stool in 48 to 72 hours or shows signs like a painful abdomen, lethargy, or lack of appetite, it’s time to visit your local vet.

Oftentimes, vets will perform some diagnostics, like a physical exam or an x-ray when a pup is brought to them with constipation. 

There are several ways your vet may treat your dog’s constipation. Common treatments include:

• Dietary adjustments: Dogs that commonly struggle with constipation may need a prescription diet high in fibre or a fibre supplement. 

• Dog medications: Vets have access to many medications that can ease constipation, like stool softeners and laxatives. 

• Enema treatments: In severe cases, a vet-administered enema may be required to provide immediate relief. Sometimes, this must be done over a series of several days. 

Trips to the vet can add up, but with the right pet insurance, you can focus on care instead of costs. Furkin Pet Insurance has you covered for the unexpected illnesses and accidents your pup may experience so you can give them the treatment they need without breaking the bank. 

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Becoming Constipated Again?

If you’re worried about your dog’s constipation returning, there are lots of easy steps you can take to prevent your pup from getting it again. 

Dogs who regularly have constipation may need a prescription diet high in fibre. Your dog should also have regular access to water and be provided with plenty of opportunities to use the bathroom. 

Many of the home remedies mentioned above can also be used to prevent recurrent constipation. 

You can also try encouraging your dog to exercise more. Regular activity keeps the bowels moving. Daily walks or games in the yard can make a big difference!

Photo by Anna Dudkova on Unsplash

Final Thoughts

Dealing with constipation in dogs can be ruff! But with the right care and attention, your fur baby can get back to their tail-wagging self. Simple home remedies like adding fibre to your dog’s diet and providing regular exercise can help but if you notice your pup hasn’t pooped in over 48 hours, take a trip to your vet. They can help you with treatments like medications, dietary changes, and other solutions. When in doubt, always consult your vet. They’re your pet’s best health partner!

Taking care of your furry family member shouldn’t be stressful. With Furkin Pet Insurance, you can focus on cuddles instead of vet bills! Get a quote today and give your pup the care they deserve—because they’re more than just a pet; they’re family!