Natural Ways to Help a Dog With Severe Constipation

Canine constipation is a condition in which a dog has difficulty passing stools, has incomplete bowel movements or has painful elimination of solid waste. There are a variety of reasons a dog might have constipation, ranging from stress or a change in diet to certain medications or digestive health issues. If left untreated, severe constipation can result in intestinal blockage. While a vet will need to treat health-related severe constipation, you can help relieve your dog̵7;s symptoms using a variety of natural remedies.

  1. Analyze Stool

    • Look closely at your dog̵7;s droppings and consider taking a sample to your vet for a stool analysis. If you see blood, mucus or tar-colored stools, immediate medical attention is required. If you see stool that is hard and dry, your dog may be dehydrated and may need medical care, depending on the severity of the condition. If you see evidence that your dog has gotten into garbage or eaten rocks or small toys, have a vet take an X-ray to ensure nothing has gotten lodged in your dog̵7;s bowels, which can lead to painful and serious bowel perforation.

    Increase Water Intake

    • Provide a constant supply of clean, cool drinking water for your dog. This is one of the best natural remedies for relieving a dog̵7;s severe constipation.

    Get Moving

    • Regular exercise helps all animals maintain bowel regularity. Taking your dog for a walk or playing a game of catch is not only a natural way to help relieve severe constipation, it will also help your dog maintain a healthy weight.

    Introduce High-Fiber Food

    • Look for commercially produced high-fiber dog foods, or supplement your favorite brand with additional fiber by adding fresh cooked or canned pumpkin. Start by adding a few tablespoons to your dog̵7;s food, then adjust up or down as you determine the measurements that help keep your dog regular.

    Use Natural Laxative Supplements

    • Fiber, probiotic and all-natural canine psyllium husk, as well as oat straw laxative supplements, are suitable for dogs. You can purchase them through your vet or through a pet supply center. Follow the directions on the product, which will be based on your dog̵7;s weight. Avoid mineral oil, which can result in unintentional vitamin depletion.

    Administer a Canine Enema

    • You can treat severe cases of constipation by administering an enema to your dog to help flush impacted fecal material from its bowels. For best results, consult a vet before doing this at home. Sedative therapy may be required to ensure your dog is calm and still through the procedure.