Dogs of any breed, size, age, or lifestyle can experience constipation. Our veterinarians in Denver frequently encounter it as one of the pets' most common digestive issues. In this post, our veterinarians will explore the causes of constipation in dogs and how to treat it.
Is my dog constipated?
If your dog is passing hard, dry stools or mucus when trying to defecate, or has not had a bowel movement in 48 hours or more, it is likely suffering from constipation.
Constipated dogs often strain, crouch, or whine while attempting to defecate. You may even notice string, grass, or matted feces around your dog's anal area.
Today, we will list some common causes of constipation in dogs, along with signs, and provide advice on what to do next.
If your dog exhibits any of these constipation symptoms, contact your vet at Denver immediately.
What should I do if my dog is constipated?
Is your dog displaying any of the constipation signs listed above? If so, seek immediate veterinary care for your pup, as constipation may indicate an underlying health condition or medical emergency.
What causes constipation in dogs?
There is a wide range of things that could cause constipation in dogs. Some of these causes include:
- Enlarged prostate
- Insufficient daily exercise
- Insufficient fiber in the diet
- Ingested hair from excessive self-grooming
- Pain due to orthopedic issues when attempting to defecate
- Tumors, masses, or matted hair surrounding the anus
- Abscessed or blocked anal sacks
- Ingested items such as dirt, fabric, toys, or grass
- Dehydration
How is constipation in dogs treated?
When you take your dog to the vet for constipation, the vet will conduct a comprehensive physical examination and potentially perform diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause of the ailment. Depending on the root cause of the constipation, the vet will then recommend medical treatments or at-home remedies.
The vet might prescribe various common treatments for constipation in dogs, including dog-specific laxatives, enhancing your dog's dietary fiber intake, boosting your dog's daily exercise regimen, or providing medication to strengthen the large intestine.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.