Natural Remedies For Dog Constipation

You realize you need some natural remedies for dog constipation when you get home from your evening walk, and it sinks in ... My dog didn't poop today!  

No Poop? OH NO! My dog can't poop!

You never thought you'd be concerned about not finding poop around, did you? That sounds like good news unless your dog is the one that isn't pooping; it means the pup could be constipated. 

And that is not a good thing, but there are easy natural remedies for dog constipation you can use to help things move along. Here are some natural remedies for dog constipation that should have your dog up and ... going in no time.

Don't worry! There are some simple ways to address this poop problem before you start to be concerned. The good news is dogs don't get constipated often, and when they do, there are several easy and natural ways to help them out.  

Did you know a dog should poop once every day, maybe even twice? Some dogs go 3, 4, even 5 times a day. Each dog has a different schedule, and it should be consistent.

Constipation in dogs occurs when they cannot pass stool as usual. 

Some usual causes of constipation in dogs (or why can't my dog poop) include age, digestive tract tumors, anal gland issues, dehydration, metabolic diseases, diet, activity level, prostate enlargement, and stress.    

Some signs and symptoms of constipation in dogs include:

  • Squatting frequently.
  • Crying while passing out stool.
  • Blood in stool
  • Vomiting.
  • Weight loss.
  • Whine or growling when the lower stomach is pressed.
  • Attempt to pass out stool unsuccessfully.
  • Engage in restless circling motions.
  • Decreasing appetite.
  • Passing feces that may contain mucus or water.

The List of Natural Remedies for Dog Constipation

The natural remedies for dog constipation that you can use at home include: 

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is high in moisture and fiber, which helps manage the digestive tracts. You can feed your dog with pumpkin puree directly from the can.  This is my favorite remedy for a constipated dog.

Dietary Fiber Supplements

Dietary fiber supplements will help increase the fiber contents in the dog's body, which help soften the dog's stool. Consult your veterinarian for the best fiber supplements for your dog. 

Exercise

Lack of exercise may contribute to your dog's constipation. Encourage your dog to exercise by taking them for long walks to restore healthy movement and move their bowels. Other exercises you can incorporate into your dog's daily routine include chase, fetch, and running.

Enema

An enema is a fluid injected into the lower abdomen which will help relieve your dog's constipation. I would only do this on a doctor's recommendation; I'd have the doctor do it.

Canned Dog Food

Canned dog food is softer and has a high moisture content which will help control the dog's bowel movements and soften their stool. Consider mixing the canned dog food with everyday dog food. 

Fresh Drinking Water

In most cases, dehydration is always the significant cause of constipation. Always be sure your dog has access to fresh drinking water. Have multiple water bowls around your house for your dog to drink water whenever. 

Laxative or Stool Softener

Have your dog's veterinarian recommend the best laxative for your dog to help them with bowel movement. 

Herbs and Food

Herbs and food like ginger, powdered psyllium seeds, olive oil, and wheat bran may help with constipation in dogs. Consider mixing them into the dog's canned or wet food. 

Hair Removal

If you have a long-haired dog, start by checking its bottom to see if its rectum is covered with hair; If it is, cut the hair. I would avoid using scissors to cut the hair in this area. Use electric clippers to remove any matted hair blocking the rectum, preventing your dog from passing feces. 

Natural Probiotics & Enzymes

Probiotics or digestive enzymes help keep the dog's gut health in check. Incorporate tiny amounts of yogurt, sauerkraut, green tripe, and shredded ginger and carrots into your dog's food. Green tripe stinks, but it's good stuff.

Add Olive Oil to The Dog's Food

The addition of olive oil can help relieve constipation in dogs, plus it may have other benefits like cognitive decline preventions and enriched nails and coats. 

Add Other Fiber Sources into The Diet

Consider adding other fiber sources into your dog's diet like dark leafy greens, green beans, coconut oil, broccoli, and apple slices. 

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has been proven helpful in easing constipation in dogs and acting as a stool softener. By adding a little coconut oil to your dog's food every day, you could help solve the problem. Pay attention to the dosage because too much coconut oil might cause diarrhea.

These natural remedies for dog constipation should have your pup back to normal in no time. If they don't work in a day or two, call your vet for some additional suggestions.  

Sometimes dogs may skip a time or two, but if it's been over 24 hours, you may want to start with the natural remedies for dog constipation on this page. I think the pumpkin puree is the easiest, to begin with.