Typically, the main cause of mild constipation in dogs is dehydration, change in diet, coat, lack of exercise, old age, and/or a lack of fiber in their diet, also known as too much food! for people!
Serious constipation problems can be caused by intestinal obstruction, neurological problems, prostate problems and/or intestinal parasites. For those, take your pet to your veterinarian immediately.
Before canine pharmaceuticals for every real or imagined health problem came into vogue, dog owners used whatever they had around the house to help ease their dog’s discomfort. The following home remedies and having plenty of water available have helped many stuffy dogs return to “normal.”
If possible, get the dog up and moving. Sometimes something as simple as exercise gets the pipes moving. If your dog is too old to run well, take him for a walk. Take water with you and try to encourage them to have a drink or two along the way.
Brush your dog regularly. This is especially important if you have a long-haired or thick-coated dog that sheds a lot. Cats aren’t the only ones with “hairballs.” Intestinal obstruction can be caused by your dog swallowing balls of its own hair.
Relax with your regular dry food. Moisten it and let it soak for a while before giving it to your pet. As your dog shows signs of improvement, slowly wean them back to their regular food.
The most important thing to remember is to keep your dog hydrated! If they refuse to drink, mix their water half and half with broth.
Ice cubes and ice chips – you can also make ice cubes with broth!
Pumpkin: canned pumpkin, not pie filling. 1 teaspoon – 2 tablespoons added to canned food, once or twice daily, depending on the size of your dog. It also works for diarrhea! Pick up an ice cube tray from a dollar store. Freeze pumpkin cubes. Scoop them out and store in an airtight freezer bag, to use as needed.
Breakfast cereals: 1/2 cup unsweetened bran or shredded wheat soaked for a few minutes, then added to canned foods with additional water or chicken or beef broth.
Chicken or beef broth -1/4 cup – 1 cup, depending on the size of your pet, added to their canned food or breakfast cereal.
Olive oil, cod liver oil, mineral oil, or vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds, mixed with your dog’s canned food.
Metamucil: Mix 1/2 tsp – 1 tsp into their canned food, with additional water added, for small dogs. Mix 2 scoops into their canned food, with additional water added for larger dogs. Limit to twice a day. Make sure there is enough fresh water available!
Beans and green beans – Add some beans to your dog’s diet to increase their fiber.
Canned dog food, with an extra splash of broth or water.
Milk, cottage cheese, or plain yogurt: Some dogs have trouble digesting dairy products. A little milk, yogurt, or cottage cheese may be enough to help loosen things up enough to move around. Don’t overwork!
Bottom line: Make sure your dog gets plenty of fluids. Keep them hydrated. Exercise and walk your dog at least twice a day. Feed smaller portions more often. If his stool does not soften in 3 days, take him to your vet. Your problem may be more serious than home remedies can cure.