Newborn puppies demand a lot of care and are fragile during their first weeks. Feeding, bathing and weaning all require sound technique and special care. Though it is rare for a puppy that is nursing to become constipated, it can happen. Whether the puppy is nursing or bottle feeding, constipation can become a serious matter if it goes unnoticed or untreated.
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Causes
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A puppy may become constipated for many reasons. Early on, puppies must be stimulated in order to defecate. The mother will do this, but rarely she may not, or if the mother is not present, the caretaker should stimulate the puppy so it may eliminate itself. When a puppy is a few weeks old, it no longer needs this stimulation.
Some causes of constipation are certain treats, such as rawhide toys and bones given to chew on from the dinner table. Matted hair in the "bottom" area can prevent the dog from eliminating, as well as not enough water in the diet when the puppy passes the mother's-milk-only stage. If you are feeding the puppy commercial puppy formula or homemade formula, the ingredients in the formula may be the cause.
Symptoms
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Symptoms that the puppy is constipated are irregular or no bowel movements; small, hard stools; or straining while eliminating. Monitor the puppy for a day to confirm these symptoms. The puppy may appear bloated, less active, or in pain. Some dogs may also experience a fever along with constipation.
Remedies
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To help relieve the puppy, start off by providing some water. If the puppy is old enough to eat soft puppy food, add some unsweetened canned pumpkin to the food. This will help as a natural stool softener. Whole bran can also be sprinkled into puppy food, as well as 1/2 tsp. of olive oil. Additionally, some prepared puppy food has added fiber. Puppy food with 7 percent or more fiber content should be adequate in helping the bowels move.
When to See a Vet
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If you're unsure whether the puppy has ingested a foreign object, if the puppy seems distressed or sick, or if the condition does not improve within a couple days of home treatment, see a veterinarian immediately. Constipation can become serious, and some health issues can also cause constipation. Small breeds like Yorkshire terriers and chihuahuas often get constipated and are at risk for health issues as puppies due to their size.
Prevention
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Keeping your dog hydrated and providing enough exercise can help prevent any stool hardening that can cause constipation. In addition, make sure the dog's hair is well-kept as it grows. Hair consumption due to dogs' over-grooming themselves can cause constipation as well. Keep stuffed animals, and other objects that are not intended for dog play, away from puppies, as these items may come apart and be consumed.
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