There comes a time in everyone’s life when constipation rears its ugly head. The same goes for dogs, unfortunately. Lack of exercise and proper diet can lead to bouts of constipation (sound familiar?). While you can look for a variety of ways to “eliminate” this problem in your own life, let’s explore some home remedies for dog constipation that can be used should it occur in your dog.
As mentioned above, proper diet and exercise are key components in ensuring that your dog has the ability to defecate as often as necessary. Domestic dogs typically need to be walked twice a day while maintaining a proper diet. If your dog becomes constipated, one method of alleviating this problem is to add a teaspoon or two of bran to his food. This allows additional moisture in the stool.
Another method of softening stools would be to add psyllium (Metamucil in the adult world) to your diet. Half a teaspoon twice a day, plus drinking plenty of water, will suffice. A third option would be mineral oil. This can be used in cases where there is a large accumulation of hard stool. Two teaspoons should be added, twice a day, to your food, but only for one week. There are several other steps you can take to relieve your dog’s constipation. Keep your food moist by adding a little water. If your dog is getting older, add some raw meat and vegetables to his diet.
There are certain signs that can alert you to possible problems and for which you can take immediate action. Dogs’ long hair can cause feces to become matted; therefore, keep your dog properly groomed. Dogs tend to eat anything they see, make sure they haven’t ingested bones or other materials. Just as we experience constipation due to certain medications, dogs are no exception. Psychological stress is another indicator related to constipation.
While it has been suggested that all breeds and dogs of any age are prone to constipation, there are other things you may need to consider that many dog owners are guilty of. Never feed your dog from the dining room table. While you can indulge the dog with a few leftovers here and there, you are contributing to his constipation.
Foods containing flour, sugar, rice, dairy and high protein value are the main source of the problem. Ice cream, cookies, bread, chocolate, or other unhealthy foods can cause your dog unnecessary pain. As mentioned above, a lack of fiber and dehydration are common causes. Another cause for concern would be a condition known as megacolon. This simply means that your dog has an inflamed colon that is preventing the discharge of feces.
The time to visit the vet will become apparent when your dog’s inability to defecate is impaired by decreased appetite, trace amounts of blood and general lethargy. Keep in mind that contributing to your dog’s overall health should be of the utmost importance. A dog’s love is unconditional, therefore he or she is totally dependent on you to maintain a healthy and harmonious life. Always be on the lookout for any signs of stress and make sure his diet and exercise regimen is appropriate and ongoing.