Constipation in Dogs: What, Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Waggyfriends, on this occasion we are looking for important information about constipation in our furry dogs. Who has not suffered from this situation?

Stay reading this blog and together let's discover what it is, its causes, symptoms, ways to prevent it and much more. Remember that we work together to ensure the well-being of our pets and to provide them with the life they deserve. Let's get started!

What is constipation in dogs?

Constipation in dogs is a fairly common problem that refers to difficulty or infrequent evacuation of feces. It can manifest itself in various ways, such as dry, hard stools, straining during defecation, or the complete absence of bowel movements for a long period of time.

Causes of a constipated dog

We must always remember that our pets have different organisms and also different ways of processing certain factors. However, some of the most common causes of constipation in dogs are as follows:

Improper diet

A diet low in fiber can contribute to constipation. Look at the article: Best food for dogs

fluid imbalance

Dehydration can cause stools to become dry and difficult to pass.

Obstruction

The presence of foreign objects in the digestive tract can cause blockages and make it difficult to pass stool.

Medical problems

Diseases such as anal gland problems, neuromuscular problems, or intestinal disorders can contribute to constipation.

Lack of exercise

A sedentary lifestyle can affect intestinal motility.

Symptoms of constipation in dogs

Like many other diseases, the symptoms will be very varied due to your pet's clinical history and even the intensity with which it occurs. Some of the identifiable symptoms that may occur are the following:

Difficulty defecating

Your dog may show straining or discomfort when trying to eliminate.

Reduced frequency of defecation

A decrease in the frequency of bowel movements may be an indication of constipation.

dry and hard stools

Stools may be drier and harder than normal.

Presence of blood in the stool

Straining while defecating could cause small ruptures in the blood vessels of the rectum, resulting in blood in the stool.

Changes in behavior

Your dog may appear uncomfortable, restless, or show signs of abdominal pain.

Lack of appetite

Severe constipation could cause the dog to lose interest in food.

Vomiting

In more severe cases, the buildup of material in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to vomiting.

Home remedies for a constipated dog

 Waggy's will always recommend that you consult with your veterinarian any home remedy you want to provide. They, with greater security, will be able to guide you and at a certain point, authorize it. In addition, he will recommend giving your pet puppy treats with CBD for dogs , they also contain Omeg a 3 for dogs , a necessary and essential component for the development of our pet and if you are wondering about CBD, what you should know is It lowers stress and anxiety levels in dogs, making it highly recommended.

Vegetable oil

You can add a small amount of vegetable oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil) to your dog's food to help lubricate the digestive tract.

abdominal massage

A gentle abdominal massage can stimulate bowel movement. Do it carefully and watch your dog's reaction.

Warm sitz baths

Some dogs find relief with warm sitz baths. Fill a bathtub or sink with warm water and place your dog in it for a few minutes.

Increased fiber in the diet

Introduce high-fiber foods into your dog's diet. You can add canned pumpkin (without spices) or bran fiber to your food. This can help soften stool and make it easier to pass.

Greater hydration

Make sure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water. Adequate hydration is essential to keep stool soft and easy to pass.

Foods that constipate dogs

Food is undoubtedly one of the most important points and there are some of them that contribute to constipation in our furry dog:

low fiber diet

Fiber is essential for digestive health, as it helps keep stool soft and makes it easier to pass through the intestinal tract. If a dog's diet is low in fiber, it can contribute to constipation. Some commercial dog foods may have insufficient fiber levels. I recommend that you consult about the barf diet or at least what vegetables dogs can eat

Large, raw bones

While raw bones can be beneficial for dogs' dental health, excessive consumption of large, raw bones can lead to hard stools and contribute to constipation. Additionally, cooked bones should be avoided as they can splinter and cause intestinal blockages.

Excess calcium-rich foods

Too much calcium in the diet, often from supplements or foods rich in this mineral, can contribute to constipation.

How to prevent constipation in dogs?

Taking care of the well-being of our pets in this situation will include factors such as adequate nutrition, a good level of physical activity and ensuring the lifestyle they deserve. Additionally, you can take care of the following aspects:

• Make sure you provide your dog with a balanced diet that includes foods rich in fiber. Foods like vegetables, pumpkin, and foods formulated with fiber can help keep stools soft.
• Make sure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water. Adequate hydration is essential to keep stool soft and easier to pass through the digestive system.
• If it is necessary to change your dog's diet, do so gradually to allow his digestive system to adapt without causing problems.
• Exercise helps keep the digestive system active and can prevent constipation. Make sure you provide your dog with enough daily physical activity.
• Get regular veterinary checkups to look for possible health problems that may contribute to constipation. Problems such as anal gland problems or gastrointestinal disorders can be identified and treated in time.

Conclusion

What do you think of this article? In conclusion, constipation in dogs may be a common concern, but adopting preventative care practices is essential to ensure the digestive health of our pets. Providing a balanced, high-fiber diet, ensuring they have access to clean water, encouraging regular exercise, and avoiding abrupt changes in diet are essential steps in preventing constipation. Additionally, monitoring our dogs' behavior and stool, along with regular visits to the vet, allows us to detect any problems early and provide the necessary care. By committing to these principles of proactive care, we contribute significantly to the overall well-being of our beloved pets.