It’s not uncommon that a dog suffers from constipation once in a while. If your dog has mild constipation from time to time, you can use some home remedies to help him.
Remember that these remedies should only be used when the dog does not show any other signs of illnesses. If these remedies do not bring about relief in 48 hours, you should bring your constipated dog to the vet for a check-up to find out the underlying cause of his constipation.
Remedies For Mild Constipation in Dogs
Below are suggestions of some simple dog constipation remedies for your constipated dog:
Pumpkin and Green Beans
Canned pumpkin and green beans are super fiber foods that can add bulk to the stools. The good news is, most dogs love the taste of pumpkin. If you notice your dog is straining a little to poop, or has missed “doing his business” for a day or so, try mixing some canned pumpkin and/or green beans with the dog food until he is regular again.
Remember to use 100 percent pure pumpkin puree, not the type of canned pumpkin that is used for making pumpkin pie.
Psyllium Seed Husks
Another way to relieve a constipated dog is to mix some natural psyllium husks with his food. Psyllium seed husks are a potent natural laxative. For small dogs, give half a teaspoon and, for larger dogs, two teaspoons.
Note that dogs with a history of colitis or other bowel problems should not be given psyllium husks because it may cause problems.
Dogs with a history of colitis or other bowel problems should not be given psyllium husks.
Other Fiber Sources
Other fiber sources include oat bran and flaxseeds, both of which can be added to a constipated dog’s diet.
Olive, Safflower, or Coconut Oil
Oil helps stools travel more easily through the intestine when a dog is constipated. Add between half to one teaspoon of either olive, coconut, or safflower oil to your dog’s food if he is constipated.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is an herb that has a soothing and lubricating effect on the GI tract.
If your dog is suffering from constipation, you can use a tincture of slippery elm by diluting 20 drops of the tincture in one ounce of water and give your dog a dropperful three to four times a day.
Use an Herbal Formula
If your dog suffers from the occasional constipation, consider getting this natural product:
Smooth BM Gold – Dog Constipation Support
It contains natural herbs and is effective in promoting and supporting regular bowel movements.
Preventing Constipation in Dogs
Prevention is better than cure! Here are some suggestions that can help prevent constipation in your dog:
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise can prevent constipation because it strengthens the abdominal muscles. Give your dog at least two 30-minute exercise sessions every day.
Sufficient Water Intake
If your dog tends to get constipated, encourage him to drink more water. Water lubricates the GI tract and helps to move stools along more easily. If your dog does not drink enough water, you may want to add a little flavoring to his water bowl by pouring in a small amount of juice from a can of clams, for example.
Older dogs tend to get constipated because of insufficient water intake. So if you have an old dog, it may be a good idea to add water to his dry food. Or alternatively, give him moist or canned foods.
Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes
Dogs suffering from constipation from time to time may benefit from supplementation of probiotics and digestive enzymes. These two supplements strengthen the digestive and immune systems of the dogs. They lessen the chance of dogs developing GI problems such as constipation and diarrhea.
Regular Grooming
Sometimes for some long-haired dogs, poor or insufficient grooming results in great amount of hair blocking the anus, making it difficult for the dog to defecate resulting in constipation.
Also, sometimes blocked anal sacs can make a dog reluctant to have a bowel movement. To prevent constipation, it is therefore important to groom your dog frequently, including having his anal sacs checked and expressed regularly.