Dogs normally poop twice a day. Constipation is a condition where dogs are unable to defecate on a regular basis. Although the condition is quite common it is usually only temporary.
Constipation is characterised by a difficulty passing feces. It is very easy for a dog and to spot.
Causes Of Constipation
Most commonly, constipation is caused by diet. It is important to get the fibre balance right. Too much fibre or too little fibre can both cause constipation.
Other common causes lack of exercise or drinking insufficient water.
Constipation can also be caused by hair which is ingested during self-grooming, matted hair around the anus, or an enlarged prostate gland.
Symptoms Of Constipation
Although the most common symptom of constipation is a difficulty to pass feces, there are other symptoms. These include:
Lack of appetite
Vomiting
Frequent squatting
Lack of energy
Whimpering or yelping while passing stools
Hard dry stools
Treatment Of Constipation
When you notice that your dog is constipated, there are a few things you can do to bring relief.
You can increase the dog’s fibre intake buy including wheat bran or psyllium in his meals.
Cooked or canned pumpkin is a popular home remedy for constipation.
Make sure he has plenty of water to drink. As his fibre intake increases, he will want to drink even more than normal.
Increase his daily exercise.
If the constipation persists for more than a few days and your home remedies are not working, visit the vet.
Your vet will examine your dog thoroughly and recommend a course of treatment. The treatment could include an enema or some medication to induce peristaltic movement of the bowel
Discuss changes to your dog’s diet with your vet to try and prevent constipation occurring again.
Constipation is more prevalent as dogs get older.
