Constipated Dog

The symptoms of a constipated dog are fairly straight forward to spot. The inability to pass feces or stools (take a dump in the normal way) is the result of constipation. You will see that when out walking for example but but if your dog runs free you may not be aware of it at first.

==> I am not sure about this guy but one way or the other he needs help! ==^^

Bad breath may indicate a digestive problem and good old fashioned flatulence ("farting" in Anglo Saxon) are both significant indications or symptoms of constipation in dogs.

You will see your dog straining, turning to look at himself, shuffling along the ground or stopping every few paces to try again. Also if your dog becomes lethargic, is off his food, starts to vomit or even displays signs of what you may think to be diarrhea, these are all indications of a constipated dog.

Constipation is uncomfortable at best or painful at worst, either way your dog needs treatment. The cause of your dog's constipation will have a great bearing on what needs to be done so let's look at the possible causes before moving onto the cures, remedies and treatments.

The Usual Suspects

A poor diet is the most common cause and will lead to you having a constipated dog. Constipation can cause dehydration so ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water available at all times. You may also want to investigate some homemade recipes which are quick and easy to prepare.

Worms are another common cause of constipation and whipworms are the worst offenders . These parasites are relatively easy to control and a regular worming program will prevent you from having a constipated dog. Check your dog's stools when they are fresh for any parasites or if you prefer or are uncertain, produce a sample for your vet to examine for you. They must be as fresh as possible. He or she can then prescribe a worming program for you.

Other Causes of Constipation

Is it possible your dog has been eating something he shouldn't? For example, some dogs will eat just about anything from plastic toys and metallic objects to stones and sharp sticks. This is particularly true of puppies. If this is the case he may well have a temporary blockage that needs veterinary attention in order to remove it and repair any damage caused.


Equally your dog might not be able to hold his food down and could start vomiting at the same time. You might even see signs that lead you to believe he has diarrhea rather than constipation (that brown oozing from the anus) but that is merely seepage of the liquid stools that is able to pass the blockage. An X-ray at your vet's clinic will soon pinpoint the problem and the will be treated accordingly.

At the other end of the scale, if you have a normal or picky eater and you have spotted the same or similar symptoms it could be pointing to something more long term. Tumors, an inflamed prostate, intestinal infection and polyps are all potential villains here. A rectal abscess, fistulas, prolapse or an anal tumor may be the contributing factor. Examine the area for any abnormalities or have a vet check the rectal area since many times the problem may not be visibly seen. Some endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism or parathyroid's may cause constipation. A regular thyroid level test may be helpful to rule these conditions out.

A rarer cause of constipation in dogs is caused by the nervous system. Neurological damage in the bowel area can make the usual business become extremely painful and will of course, need veterinary attention.

Another cause may be some other medication your dog is taking. Carefully check the instructions on the label taking note of any possible side effects. If constipation is listed then that may be the problem. Among the more common drug types that cause constipation in dogs are diuretics, antihistamines and anti acids.

Don't confuse constipation with diarrhea!

Now that may sound obvious because they are the opposite thing but you would be surprised at how often this occurs. Therefore it is worth stating that If your dog has had a bout of diarrhea you may observe her straining and exuding some brown liquid. What is happening here is that the stimulus to take a dump is still there but there is nothing left to come out, so be vigilant and don't treat this as constipation!

A final word of warning. If your constipated dog shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite and vomiting then consult you veterinarian.as soon as possible. If your dog has become dehydrated.she may need fluids in order to be re-hydrated or an enema to remove the blockage and possibly, in a worse case scenario, a surgical operation.


The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health has more information to help your constipated dog become and remain healthy.

Let's start with the basics: your dog's diet. Making sure your dog is getting enough roughage or fiber in his food is perhaps obvious but if you are feeding dry food, I recommend you soak it first. Soak it enough so it swells a little, it is far more digestible that way. I like to soak dry food whenever I feed it, in chicken water.

"In what?" I hear you ask. Chicken water. I boil up the carcass of the chicken for twenty minutes and then I have chicken water.Quick, easy, tasty and nourishing. Then, if needed, simply adding a cup of bran or bran flakes to your dogs food should prevent the constipation problem. Beans, the dried variety that you soak for 24 hours at home, will also do the trick.

Be sure that your dog has access to clean fresh water all day and night: 24/7. This is important.Then increase the amount of exercise you are giving him and while out on your walks take a peek at the pooh. It will keep you informed of your dogs health. There is a whole scientific area of reading animal feces but that's a different subject.

Mineral oil ( 1 tbsp per 10 lbs.) or a herbal remedy will usually relieve and ease the gastrointestinial tract in most cases of constipation and quickly too. Be sure to follow any instructions on the label carefully.

I cannot emphasis enough how important exercise is. Your dog needs exercise and plenty of it. It may be harder with older dogs particularly to get in the exercise they need so pay attention to the dietary guidelines above. Your observations will tell you how much bran for example is the right amount to feed. Older dogs are more prone to constipation so if possible more short walks are better than one long one..

If your dog has had surgery it is possible he could develop severe constipation (obstipation). This occurs because he was denied food the previous evening but as soon as he is back on his regular diet he will return to normal. Naturally, consult your vet if in doubt. , pain meds are administered and recovery takes place.

It is up to you to decide if you can treat your dog at home or whether he requires immediate veterinary attention. Constipation can be easily diagnosed and treated by an attentive and knowledgeable owner. However, if you have eliminated the obvious and your dog has not had any bowel movement for at least two days, it is possible that he may have an internal blockage. If that is the case, you should see your vet immediately as surgery may be required in order to remove the blockage.

I found this free e-book useful for many health remedies and it includes some homemade recipes that are just right for constipated dogs.

Ark Naturals Gentle Digest for Dogs and Cats

A specially formulated Probiotic to give your pet's digestive system the boost it needs! Gentle Digest provides a source of beneficial intestinal bacteria and helps encourage their growth.

Let's Look at the Ingredients of Gentle Digest.

Gentle digest contains patented Lactobacillus bacteria sporogenes. These are microencapsulated lactobacillus spores which are resistant to heat and stomach acid. Sporogenes germinate within the optimum growth environment of the intestines to deliver a maximum concentration of viable (live) lactobacilli. Many probiotic products on the market for both humans and pets are useless because they contain virtually no live bacteria.
Gentle digest also contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) from chicory root. FOS are small sugar polymers that serve as preferred foods for lactobacilli, hence encourage their growth.

Vetri-Science Acetylator 60 Caps

A formula that aids proper digestion and bowel health, strengthens protective layers of the bowel, and help maintains urinary tract health.

And Vetri-Science Acetylator contains...

N-Acetyl Glucosamine, Alfalfa, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Aspergilus fungus (pepsin), Carlco papaya wax (papain), Pineapple juice (bromelain).

Only Natural Pet GI Support for Dogs and Cats

An advanced gastrointestinal support formula for dogs and cats. Aids digestion, and helps with food allergies, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and inflammatory bowel conditions.

Only Natural Pet GI Support is a great asset to your pets wellbeing. It contains...

Acidophilus
Slippery Elm Bark
Alfalfa
Licorice Root Extract
Proteolytic Enzymes (Pepsin, Papain, and Bromelain)
Folic Acid
Quercetin Chalcone
L-Glutamine
Pantothenic Acid

This is a very popular product but you don't have to take my word for it. Take a quick look and see what 70 or more other people think of it and how it has helped their pets.
I like the Only Natural Pet Store, nice people.

Pet Naturals of Vermont Digestive Support for Dogs 60/120 Capsules

An effective formula for cats and dogs to support proper digestion and bowel health. Helps to strengthen the protective layers of the bowel and urinary tract.

Digestive Support has both Active and Inactive Ingredients.

Active Ingredients:
N-Acetyl Glucosamine - 250 mg
Lactobacillus Acidophilus (non-dairy) - 14 million CFU
Pepsin - 1.5 mg
Papain - 1.5 mg
Bromelain - 1.5 mg

Inactive Ingredients:
Alfalfa and Microcrystalline Cellulose

LoveMyPet Tummy Ease for Dogs and Cats

An herbal formula to treat abdominal discomfort, gas, mild constipation, overeating, food allergies, and hairballs. LoveMyPet uses organic herbs as well as homeopathic ingredients in their unique, holistic remedies.

Last but Not Least, LoveMyPet Tummy Ease.

Contains:

Organic yarrow
oregano
peppermint
rosemary
gentian
proprietary homeopathics in water, vegetable glycerine and 2% organic alcohol.

Maris is a herbal formula that has been designed to alleviate the associated discomfort of constipation. Maris will ease your dog's gastrointestinal system, stimulate digestion, ease passage of stool and purify the gastrointestinal tract. This herbal formula addresses many causes of your animal's discomfort, reducing inflammation and irritation while promoting easy bowel movements.

Your dog, diet, constipation and flatulence

Constipation and flatulence are common problems in dogs, particularly as they age. They aren't diseases, as such. They're simply signs that there is some kind of problem the gastrointestinal system. These problems can be caused by a number of different things, even though the symptoms you see are all very similar. The problem may be something your dog has eaten and can't digest, a parasite or an infection they have picked up. Either way, they are uncomfortable and unhappy and can use your help in making their discomfort go away.

This is a tried and trusted herbal remedy for constipated dogs.