At-Home Remedies for Blockage in Dogs

Just as you may become constipated from time to time because of varying factors, your dog may become blocked-up as well. Using home remedies can help you save on the cost of prescribed medications as well as avoid chemicals in your dog's system. However, as with any home remedy you should contact your dog's veterinarian to ensure the treatment is safe given your dog's specific situation.

  1. Canned Pumpkin

    • Canned pumpkin is a great stool softener and will help relieve constipation in your dog. There is lots of fiber in pumpkin and will help get things moving. Most dogs love the taste of the pumpkin as is; however, you may need to mix it into your dog's food to get him to eat it. In general, just one serving of 1 to 2 tsp. will clear up the blockage. If you find one dose does not do it, try a second. The most important thing about using canned pumpkin is to ensure that you purchase pureed pumpkin and not the spiced pumpkin pie filling.

    Vomiting

    • Sometimes a blockage can refer to a foreign object that has been swallowed and inducing vomiting will clear the blockage. Before you attempt any method to induce vomiting, however, contact your veterinarian to seek approval. According to Pet Place, inducing vomiting can be dangerous. If vomiting is recommended by your dog's vet, hydrogen peroxide is the best option. Choose a 3 percent concentration and avoid hair-coloring strength. Give your dog one tsp. of hydrogen peroxide for every 10 pounds your dog weighs. Take your dog for a walk and jiggle her belly to mix the peroxide up. She should vomit within 20 minutes. If she does not, provide a second dose and walk her again. If she still does not vomit within another 20 minutes, contact your veterinarian immediately.

    Small Changes

    • If your dog is becoming blocked occasionally, make a few small changes to his lifestyle to help prevent constipation. For many reasons, a good, high-quality dog food is important. It not only helps prevent constipation, but it also helps boost his immune system. Provide plenty of fresh, clean water. Hydration is key to ensure a healthy digestive system. Also, provide your dog with lots of activity and exercise. A sedentary lifestyle can cause constipation.