Canine Constipation & Milk of Magnesia

Constipation in dogs is when they pass small, hard stools or none at all. There are many causes for constipation -- anything from lack of fiber in the diet to a tumor blocking the digestive system. It is always important to take a dog with constipation to a vet for a proper diagnosis. But for mild constipation, the human over-the- counter remedy milk of magnesia, magnesium hydroxate can be used for dogs.

  1. Dosage

    • Dogs need to be weighed in order to help determine dosage. For every pound that the dog weighs, give 2 to 5 milliliters of medication, or 1/2 to one full tsp. altogether, according to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook." One tsp. equals 400 milliliters. Always first start with the lower end of the scale to see if that works. If ever unsure of how much to give, phone a veterinarian.

    Warning

    • Milk of magnesia is also given to dogs as an antacid. That dose is not based on weight, as for constipation. It is only 5 to 30 milliliters per dog, not per pound.Large doses of milk of magnesia, especially in small dogs, can cause negative side effects, including worsening constipation or a sudden bout of diarrhea, loss of coordination or loss of appetite. If a dog taking milk of magnesia experiences these side effects, contact a vet at once.

    Alternatives

    • In case the dog owner is out of milk of magnesia, there are alternatives. "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" also recommends mineral oil as a laxative in dogs. The dose is 5 milliliters (one tsp.) for every 20 pounds the dog weighs. It is best mixed in with food. Another remedy is psyllium husk, best known under the brand name Metamucil. Mix one tsp. for every 10 to 20 pounds that the dog weighs into one of the dog's daily meals.

    Interactions

    • Milk of magnesia can stop a dog from digesting many medications. Never give milk of magnesia to dogs that are taking antibiotics like tetracycline; aspirin; corticosteroids like hydrocortisone; enzymes to help the pancreas function and drugs that help control heartbeat such as quinidine. The dog's electrolytes may become unbalanced, but this is not important if the dog is in general good health and not taking any other medication.

    Administration

    • The first dose should be given only once per 24 hours. If the dog gets no better but also gets no worse, then the dose can be given every 12 hours, provided a veterinarian agrees. Although chewable milk of magnesia tablets are on the market, it may be difficult to get the right amount a dog needs from the tablets. It is best to use liquid medication. Syringes or even a turkey baster is best used rather than a spoon as this decreases spilling. Sometimes dogs will lap milk of magnesia eagerly but do not rely on this happening.