Dog Constipation Remedies

Dog constipation remedies can be used to treat mild constipation in dogs. This page looks at some simple home remedies for constipated dogs.

Our page on Constipation in Dogs looks at the symptoms and possible causes of canine constipation. This page takes a look at some home remedies that are effective in treating mild cases of dog constipation.

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.

Dog Constipation Remedies For Mild Cases of Constipation

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, and most dogs love the taste of pumpkin. Just mix some canned pumpkin and/or green beans with the dog food until he is regular again.

Psyllium Seed Husks
Another way to relieve a constipated dog is to mix some Metamucil with his food. Metamucil is made from psyllium seed husks, a potent natural laxative. For small dogs, give half a teaspoon and for larger dogs, two teaspoons. However, dogs with a history of colitis or other bowel problems should not be given Metamucil because it may cause problems.

Other Fiber Sources
Other fiber sources include oat bran and flaxseeds, both of which can be added to a constipated dog's diet.

Olive or Safflower Oil
Oil helps stools travel more easily through the intestine when a dog is constipated. Add between half to one teaspoon of either olive 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 this herb by diluting 20 drops of the tincture in one ounce of water and give your dog a dropperful three to four times a day.

Here is a good natural product that can prevent and help dog constipation:

PetAlive Natural Moves to Prevent Constipation in Pets

It contains a blend of herbal remedies and fibers and biochemic tissue salts which are effective in supporting and maintaining bowel health in pets. Use it to prevent constipation in your dog. If your dog is already suffering from constipation, this remedy can help your dog regain regular bowel movements.

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Dog Constipation Remedies For Prevention of Constipation

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
Constipated dogs are encouraged to drink more water because it 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. Another way is to moisten their dry food with a little water or give them moist or canned foods.

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. As well, 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.