Immediate Remedies for Canine Constipation

Constipation occurs in dogs of every age, size and breed. It can be the result of many problems, including lack of fiber or exercise, dehydration or a more serious medical condition. Symptoms include excessive straining when defecating, lack of or small, hard stool production, frequent yet unproductive bowel movements and yelping or whining during bowel movements. Your veterinarian can best treat your dog's constipation; however, there are a few home remedies you can try.

  1. Pumpkin

    • Canned pumpkin increases your dog's fiber content, which produces more regular and bulky stools. Feed your dog only plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, as this contains sweeteners and other spices. Add 1-2 tbsp. to your dog's food daily to encourage a bowel movement when it is constipated and prevent further occurrences of constipation.

    Fiber Supplements

    • Psyllium powder (Metamucil) is another good way to increase your dog's fiber content and produce bowel movements. This type of fiber is highly digestible and safe for your dog. Never use a supplement with sugar or dyes added. Use 1-2 tsp. of fiber in your large dog's food daily, depending on size (try 1/4 tsp. for small dogs and 1/2 tsp. for medium sized dogs).

    Oil

    • Excess oil in any dog's diet produces diarrhea, so in a dog that's constipated, oil may be just what the doctor ordered. Add 1-2 tsp. of olive or mineral oil to your dog's food (or administer alone if your dog likes the taste). This oil lubricates the dog's intestines, allowing stool to pass quickly and easily.

    Milk

    • Most dogs are lactose intolerant. Dairy products produce bowel movements for dogs much in the same way as oil: they increase your dog's chances of developing diarrhea. Giving a constipated dog a bowl of milk is a good way to get things on the move, and dogs generally like the taste of milk and will view treatment as just a treat.

    Wheat Bran

    • Wheat bran is full of fiber (notice a trend?). Add 2-3 spoonfuls of wheat bran to your dog's daily diet until a bowel movement is produced. Cereals such as Grape Nuts are a good wheat bran source; just be sure not to give your dog any cereal containing chocolate or nuts (these are toxic to dogs).