Constipation is not uncommon in dogs. Even though it can be uncomfortable, most cases can be resolved with diet modifications or prescription medications. You can often treat canine constipation with some simple home remedies. So if you’re asking yourself, ‘What can I give my dog for constipation?’ It may be as simple as changing or adding to your dog’s diet. In this article we’re going to explore the causes of constipation in dogs and home remedies you can try to help treat your pup.
Dietary and lifestyle factors are the most common causes of constipation in dogs, and identifying the culprit can help you choose the best remedy. Here are the main suspects to consider:
1. Low-Fiber Diets: Dietary fiber helps move food through your dog’s digestive system, and if your dog doesn’t consume enough, their system can become backed up.
2. Dehydration: On the flip side, constipation can also emerge if your dog isn’t drinking enough water. Daily hydration can help stave off constipation.
3. Lack of Exercise: Exercise gets the body and the digestive system moving. If your dog snoozes much more than they move, they’re more likely to experience constipation.
4. Side Effects From Medications: Some medications like antihistamines or diuretics can come with side effects, including constipation.
How To Treat Constipation In Dogs At Home
When your dog has a mild case of constipation, you can use these four easy remedies to help get things moving again. Try one or a mixture of these solutions and watch your dog closely for any improvement. It usually takes 48 to 72 hours for your dog to get relief. If at any time your dog vocalizes during an elimination attempt or if they’re not producing a normal bowel movement after 72 hours, bring them immediately to your veterinarian.
1. Serve Up Some Pumpkin: Pumpkin is rich in dietary fiber, making it one of the best natural solutions for various types of digestive tract issues. Whether your dog has constipation or diarrhea, pumpkin can help get them back on track. And because of its sweet taste, your pup will be more than happy to oblige. Try stirring a spoonful of pumpkin powder into your dog’s food. If you choose to use canned pumpkin, make sure you don’t accidentally pick up the pumpkin pie filling because that has ingredients that are dangerous for your pup.
2. Add Some Probiotics To Their Meal: Probiotics are a collection of good bacteria in your dog’s gut. When there isn’t enough, it can lead to digestive issues. Probiotics for dogs, like probiotic powder, can support your dog’s gut health and help them produce normal stool. Just one to two scoops daily on top of their food, and they’re all set.
3. Look To Water And Delicious Bone Broth: Dehydration can lead to chronic constipation. Make sure your dog always has fresh water available, and encourage them to drink it. Also, you can serve bone broth over their meals. This nutritious treat is the perfect way to encourage your pet to drink.
4. Give Your Dog More Exercise: If your dog suffers from constipation, consider adding more exercise to their daily routine. Try starting with 10 minutes of exercise, like a game of fetch or a walk, and slowly increase the amount with the goal of 30 minutes of daily movement each day.
