Home Remedies for Constipated Dogs

By Dr. Ritu Krishnatreye, BHMS

Home remedies for constipated dogs

Just like human beings, constipation is a frequent problem in dogs.

Why dogs get constipated

Constipation in dogs can be the result of various factors, including:

• A lack of exercise
  
  
• Dehydration
  
  
• Dietary indiscretion
  
  
• A lack of fiber in their food
  
  
• A bowel obstruction

When a dog is constipated, you can see their discomfort when they are passing stool. They will strain and strain, and when stool does come out it is dry and hard.

Although constipation isn’t generally dangerous for a dog, there are some effective home remedies that can remedy and help a constipated dog. 

Relief starts with quality food

Relief starts with quality food.

Exercise and diet are important factors for preventing the symptoms of constipation in dogs. 

High quality dry pet foods contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which are necessary to keep a dog’s bowels moving well, so check out the label before buying.

You can also use a quality canned dog food for a day or two to help bring constipated dogs relief.

For those that feed their dog fresh foods, make sure they contain some fiber. This includes bran, oats, chopped or pureed vegetables, and other whole grains.

Adding fiber will accelerate the elimination process by increasing bulk and water content of fecal matter. 

7 Home Remedies for Dog Constipation

However, at times, constipation is severe and you require some natural remedies to cleanse the system. Here are some of the tried and tested natural treatments for constipated dogs.

1. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is an effective constipation remedy. Pumpkin is rich in both fiber and water, which both contribute to keeping your pet’s bowel movements regular.

Pumpkin works as a natural laxative, plus it is high in fiber. You can either use pureed canned pumpkin, or puree your own pumpkin after cooking it.

Depending on the size of your dog, mix between 1 tsp. and 2 Tbl. of pure pack pumpkin puree into their food each day.

Avoid processed pumpkin products that contain extra spices or sugar. These products may irritate the gastric lining of your dog’s stomach.

2. Apple cider vinegar

This works great for several gastric ailments, including constipation.

It is a natural laxative that works wonders for relieving mild to moderate cases of constipation. A teaspoon or two can be mixed in with your dog’s food, as long as that food isn’t dry dog food.

3. Ginger and chicken broth

The combination of these two ingredients is a perfect remedy for indigestion and a constipated tummy.

Combine ¼ teaspoon of ginger with ½ cup of chicken or beef broth. Ginger relieves indigestion and chicken broth helps in getting a dog’s bowels moving. 

4. Ionic sea minerals

Another effective home remedy for dog constipation is Ionic Sea Minerals. This is a great mineral supplement.

Besides a blend of 76 minerals, which may help to promote digestive health, it contains a healthy amount of constipation busting magnesium. 

Each day, just add a drop of ionic sea minerals for every 2 pounds of weight into your dog’s drinking water. For larger dogs, use 1 ml. for every 40 pounds of weight.

5. Powdered psyllium seeds

Psyllium seeds are a great source of fiber. It helps to relieve dog constipation by holding moisture in the stool and by adding the bulk needed to trigger peristalsis.

Add one gram per pound of your dog’s body weight. It is an over-the-counter constipation remedy for people, and is available in most stores.

6. Warm milk

A small bowl of warm milk can work as a natural laxative, and may be enough to get things moving, often within hours. 

7. Olive oil or vegetable oil

These oils act as a lubricant that promotes smooth passage of even dry hard stools.

However, oils should not be used very often to relieve a dog’s constipation, since they may block the absorption of some nutrients.

Add a tablespoon of olive oil to your pet’s food. You may notice results in as little as two hours. 

Conclusion, home remedies for constipated dogs

Constipation in pets can be troublesome for both dogs as well as their owners. Especially when there aren’t any other symptoms, dog constipation usually isn’t dangerous.

However, if you notice blood or mucus, or any other associated symptoms, like weakness, listlessness etc., let your vet know. At times, constipation may be an indicator of a serious underlying medical disorder.

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