Constipation in Dogs

Majority of the dogs have constipation problem at some point of time or the other. This is not a condition to worry about. You will have to observe your pet well to find out whether the dog is straining hard to defecate. Constipation in dogs gets cured on its own; however, if the problem persists for a longer period of time, you will have to seek help of a veterinarian.

Causes of Constipation in Dogs
There are many causes of constipation in dogs. The following will help you find out whether your dog is having constipation.

• Excessive licking of the fur is the most common cause of this dog health problem. This forms a hairball in the colon, which leads to blocking of the colon, and hence constipation.
• Many a time, we notice that our pet consumes rocks, gravel, fabric, plants and small toys, among other things. If these items are large in size and they are unable to pass through the intestine, it can cause constipation in dogs. In this case, your pet might require surgery to get rid of the foreign object.
• If your pet has undergone a surgery in the recent past, then constipation is due to the surgery. You need not worry. After a couple of days, the dog will be able to defecate.
• If your dog is on a certain medication; that may cause of constipation. You will have to speak with the veterinarian, so that he will be able to prescribe a stool softener.
• If your pet is aging, you will have to get it examined for electrolyte imbalance. This can be a sign of a kidney disease, which often gives rise to constipation in dogs.
• Aging dogs have constipation problem due to enlarged prostate glands as well. At times, removing the prostate gland is the only option to help alleviate the problem in your dog.

Remedies for Treating Constipation in Dogs
You can take the help of these home remedies, to treat constipation in your dog.

• Pumpkin is a rich source of fiber and water. Feeding your pet with pumpkin will help get rid of constipation. You can use either fresh pumpkin or pumpkin available in cans. You will have to puree the pumpkin and then feed it to your pet. If your pet does not like it, you will have to mix it with something that your pet likes.
• With permission from the veterinarian, you can feed mild laxatives to your pet. However, this cure should be used only when all other remedies are unable to help your pet.
• Milk of magnesia is known to be useful in treating the dog illness. It will be able to get rid of constipation in no time. However, I recommend you speak with the veterinarian, before you actually feed your pet with milk of magnesia.
• You can make oatmeal or wheat bran a part of your pet's diet. Bran, like pumpkin, is a rich source of fiber and water. You will have to mix it with water before you feed your pet.
• Psyllium seeds can also be given to treat your dog's constipation. This herb works like a stool softener and helps in relieving constipation.
• The other option, you can use, is mineral oil. However, it should not be fed to your pet directly. Make it a part of your pet's diet and see the effects.
• If you find that your dog is constipated way too often, then it probably is an indicator that you do not walk your dog enough. You should increase the walking time to help relieve the dog of constipation.
• Often, we notice that some dogs do not drink sufficient amount of water. This could be the reason of constipation in those pets. Like adequate intake water is essential for human beings, it's important for your pet too. Make your pet drink sufficient amount of water every day.
• Warm, soapy water enema can also be administered to your pet. It is not advisable to use over the counter enemas, as these can be harmful for your pet. If you have been directed by the veterinarian, then you can make use of it.
• Reduce or eliminate foods like flour, sugar, high protein diet, dairy products and rice from your pet's diet. These foods do not help your pet, when it has constipation problem. On the other hand, you can increase fresh, green vegetables in your pet's diet.

If you notice that constipation has become a regular feature with your pet, you will have to make some dietary changes in his food. At the same time, some medication will also have to be included. For the same, it is advisable to get your pet examined by a veterinarian.

Looking for signs of constipation in dogs may sound difficult. However, when your dog has constipation, it will show signs of discomfort. You will have to watch for the subtle changes in your dog's behavior. If your pet is outdoors most of the time, you will need to take time to check whether your pet is constipated. In case, your pet spends most of its time at home, you will have to make sure that it gets sufficient amount of exercise.