Constipation can affect dogs of any age, but is more likely to affect your dog the older he gets. It's characterized by infrequent or absent defecation, or difficult defecation that produces hard, dry stools or trickles of diarrhea. If not treated immediately, your dog could become severely ill with an impaction or dehydration. In addition, the backed-up feces could cause your dog's lower bowels to become irreversibly stretched and damaged, in a condition called megacolon. Constipation could also be a symptom of an even more serious illness.
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Straining to Defecate
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You may notice that your dog is straining when attempting to defecate. If and when she does produce feces, it may be a very small amount.
Type of Defecation
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Canine feces should be firm with some moisture. If your dog's feces are hard and dry, or if he produces only a very small amount of liquid feces, he may be constipated.
Infrequent Defecation
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Dogs are generally regular. If you notice that your dog is defecating less than normal, or not at all, medical attention is likely in order.
Vomiting
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Occasional vomiting can occur with constipation. If your dog is vomiting and has exhibited other signs of constipation, he is quite ill and needs the attention of a veterinarian immediately.
Lack of Appetite
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Lack of appetite can signal constipation. If your dog won't eat, she is sick and needs to see her doctor.
Lethargy
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In severe cases of constipation, your dog may appear weak or depressed. If you see this, take him to your veterinarian immediately. He may require hospitalization.
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