Natural Home Remedies for Dog Constipation

Constipation in dogs is the “infrequent or difficult passage of stool or feces,” and VCA Animal Hospitals says it is “typically a temporary condition.” The American Kennel Club (AKC) names five home steps for a dog whose constipation started within the past 48 hours: plain canned pumpkin, canned dog food, other high-fiber foods, more water, and a walk. The AKC says “A dog straining to defecate should be seen by a vet sooner than 48 hours, especially if they’re not eating or showing other signs like vomiting.” The vet section below has the rest.

If you think you are dealing with a constipated dog, read the signs below first. Constipation is one of the unexpected parts of pet ownership, and the steps below cover what to try and when to stop trying and call.

What Is Dog Constipation?

VCA describes constipation as feces that accumulate in the colon, the large intestine. “One of the major functions of the colon is water absorption, so sometimes the retained stool becomes hard and dry, which makes passing it even more difficult.” In some cases, VCA says, dogs may become dehydrated.

Most dogs have a bowel movement at least once a day, and many have one that matches their daily feedings. A constipated dog may pass “small amounts of liquid feces” from straining, and VCA says that liquid is sometimes mistaken for diarrhea.

Why Is My Dog Constipated?

VCA says “There are many potential causes of constipation in dogs. The most common cause of constipation is eating irritating or indigestible substances, such as plant matter or bones.” Dogs with long hair, or dogs that lick or groom themselves excessively, are also at risk.

VCA's list of other common causes includes a sudden change in diet or ingestion of new foods, any disease or condition that results in dehydration, and fear, anxiety, and other behavioral conditions. The medical causes on the same list are diseases of the colon, megacolon (an enlarged colon), hormonal diseases such as hypothyroidism and hyperparathyroidism, neurologic diseases, painful conditions such as osteoarthritis, pelvic injuries or abnormalities, tumors or masses in the colon or rectum, foreign bodies or intestinal obstruction, and prostate disease in intact male dogs. VCA also lists drugs that cause constipation: antihistamines, diuretics, narcotic pain relievers, and sucralfate.

The AKC adds low activity levels, which “for unknown reasons result in slower transit,” and bowel obstructions that “commonly include bones, garbage, and other hard matter.” It also names advanced age, which can go together with orthopedic conditions that make squatting and excretion difficult. The AKC lists a leisurely stroll among its home steps, and a walk is one kind of regular exercise.

Dr. Veronica Villanueva, a veterinarian quoted by the AKC, says “Breeds like brachycephalic flat-faced dogs, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, toy breeds, and Dachshunds, may experience constipation more frequently.”

Signs of Constipation in Dogs

VCA says a constipated dog “will probably try to pass feces several times, unsuccessfully.” You may see a dog circling excessively, scooting (dragging the bottom along the ground), squatting frequently, or crying out in severe cases.

Other signs VCA lists are decreased appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and small amounts of watery feces or feces that contain mucus. Some constipated dogs have a tense, painful abdomen and will cry or growl if their stomach or lower back is pressed. The AKC adds dyschezia, which refers to painful or difficult defecation. After much effort, the AKC says, a dog “may produce nothing, or if they do, it could be a viscous, bloody mixture.”

Dr. Villanueva says “A constipated dog may eat less or refuse food,” and “The dog may seem less active or more tired than usual.” A dog that passes gas is a separate question, covered on our page about why dogs fart.

Home Remedies for Dog Constipation

The AKC says that if a dog's constipation “has just started within the past 48 hours, there are some tried-and-true methods that could get things moving again.” Dr. Villanueva adds that a pet parent should “always consult a veterinarian before administering any home remedies or medications.”

Pumpkin

The AKC calls pumpkin a high-fiber gourd that “often offers a reliable fix for both constipation and diarrhea.” Pumpkin treats and powders exist, such as homemade pumpkin dog treats, but the AKC says “straight, canned pumpkin works best to lubricate the digestive tract.” On its pumpkin page the AKC says “Plain, canned pumpkin is the healthiest choice for your dog.”

That page also says “Adding 1 to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin per meal to the diet of a dog suffering from constipation can help ease mild constipation.” It adds “It’s important to make sure that dogs are well hydrated any time you increase the fiber content of their food, as dehydration can make constipation worse.” It also says “It’s also imperative to find out why your dog is constipated” and to ask a vet about “an enlarged prostate, foreign material or bones in the colon, or another issue that could be an emergency if it isn’t dealt with properly.”

Never use pumpkin pie filling. The AKC says you should “never use canned pumpkin pie mix, as it may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.” Our page on harmful things for dogs covers xylitol.

Canned Dog Food

The AKC says “For a constipated dog, canned, wet dog food is both a drink and a meal.”

Other High-Fiber Foods

The AKC says “Brown rice, carrots, and leafy greens can aid in digestion and relieve your dog’s constipation.” Dr. Villanueva also recommends “no-salt, non-seasoned green beans.” The AKC says “Always consult your vet before adding supplements or over-the-counter probiotics to your dog’s food.”

More Water

The AKC says “Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are common causes of constipation.” To encourage a dog to drink, it suggests placing multiple water bowls, getting a fountain, or offering ice cubes. VCA says “In all cases, encourage water consumption and limit access to bones.”

A Walk

Make sure your dog gets enough exercise. The AKC says “a great way to encourage your dog’s bowel movements is to go for a leisurely stroll.”

Is Brown Rice a High-Fiber Food for Constipation?

Yes. The AKC lists brown rice among the high-fiber foods it suggests for a constipated dog.

Is There a Natural Laxative for Dogs?

The home steps above are the ones the AKC names for a dog with new constipation. Laxatives are a vet's tool. The AKC says “Laxative suppositories, stool softeners, and enemas may be helpful, but should only be used with guidance from a veterinarian.” VCA says laxatives such as dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DSS) or polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 “are commonly prescribed.” A laxative should only be prescribed by a veterinarian.

Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes for Dog Constipation

VCA says “Supplements such as probiotics may also be used after the constipation has been corrected.” For more on probiotic products, see our page on probiotic chews.

Probiotics introduce good bacteria into your dog's gut, helping break down food and aid digestion. Digestive enzymes, on the other hand, are nutrients that help speed up the breakdown of food so nutrients can be properly absorbed. Together, these two work harmoniously to promote regularity in your puppy!

When to See the Vet About Dog Constipation

VCA says “Call your veterinarian if your dog fails to produce a bowel movement within 48 to 72 hours of a previous bowel movement.” The AKC says “If your dog doesn’t defecate for more than 48 hours, they run the risk of developing obstipation.” It describes obstipation as retained fecal matter that becomes compacted and prevents defecation altogether.

The AKC also gives timing for a dog that is straining: “A dog straining to defecate should be seen by a vet sooner than 48 hours, especially if they’re not eating or showing other signs like vomiting.” A dog that is not passing stool but is otherwise acting normally “may be able to wait for 48 hours, but it’s best to contact a vet after 24 hours to be certain.”

Dr. Villanueva lists signs that call for a vet: “Other signs include signs of pain, vomiting, or lethargy, [or] if there is blood in the stool and the dog is showing signs of distress.” She also says affected dogs may vocalize when straining.

VCA says “Most cases of constipation are relatively easy to treat if caught in the early stages.” A vet will usually start with a physical exam and history, may do a rectal exam and abdominal X-rays, and may loosen or remove the impacted stool with enemas, manual removal, and medications. Some dogs need hospitalization for multiple enemas or fluids. If constipation is severe and medical treatment is unsuccessful, VCA says surgery may be recommended. When you go, the AKC suggests bringing the date of your dog's last bowel movement, any diet changes, and any medications, such as opioids given after a recent surgery.

Preventing Dog Constipation

Dr. Villanueva says “Maintaining a consistent diet and exercise routine can help prevent constipation,” and that “Routine veterinary check-ups every six to 12 months can help identify underlying health issues that may contribute to constipation.” A steady routine also helps a dog stay happy and healthy.

FAQ

Can a constipated dog have loose or watery stool?

Yes. VCA says that when a constipated dog strains, a small amount of liquid fecal material can squeeze around the hard fecal mass, and it is sometimes mistaken for diarrhea. VCA lists watery feces or feces that contain mucus, without a normal stool, among the signs of constipation.

Will a high-fiber diet always treat constipation?

No. VCA says “Either a low- or high-fiber diet may be needed based on your pet's specific cause of constipation.” Based on the cause, VCA says, a vet “may advise you to feed a therapeutic diet, add supplements or medications to the food, or return for additional tests or treatments.”

Can constipation turn into something worse?

VCA says megacolon is “a serious, though generally uncommon, consequence or cause of constipation in dogs.” It describes megacolon as a dilated and weak colon that causes severe constipation, seen as a primary condition or as a secondary condition following long-term constipation.

Sources

• VCA Animal Hospitals, Constipation in Dogs
• American Kennel Club, Dog Constipation: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
• American Kennel Club, Can Pumpkin Help With Dog Diarrhea?

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