How to Help Constipated Newborn Orphan Puppies

Puppies may become constipated for various reasons, and they usually aren't cause for immediate alarm. Eating plants, gravel, bones or other foreign objects can be the cause, as can eating dairy products, taking certain medications and not drinking enough water or getting enough exercise.



Puppies that have been separated from their mothers or moved around may be experiencing stress, which also can cause constipation. More serious causes of constipation include injuries and internal obstructions. If you suspect this is the case with your puppies, take them to the vet immediately.



Symptoms of constipation include passing small, hard stools, straining to defecate, vomiting, depression and lack of appetite.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Canned pumpkin or other sources of fiber
  • Homeopathic or herbal remedies
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Instructions

    • 1

      Give the puppies high-fiber puppy food, or add plain canned pumpkin, Metamucil or bran cereal to their food.

    • 2

      Provide the puppies with plenty of fresh water and monitor them. If they don't drink much, add some water to their food. Proper hydration is essential to making stools softer and easier to pass.

    • 3

      Take the puppies for walks, and give them plenty of time to run around to help their bowels move.

    • 4

      Purchase herbal or homeopathic constipation remedies made for dogs, such as aloe ferox.

    • 5

      Take the puppies to a vet if they are still constipated after a few days, or take them immediately if you suspect they have injuries or obstructions. They may require surgery, enemas or manual removal of feces from the colon under anesthesia.