What do you do when your dog can’t poop? Find Out Here

What should I do if my dog can’t poop?

Constipation in dogs should not be ignored, as if left untreated it can lead to more serious issues. If your dog hasn’t pooed for more than 24 hours be sure to get it checked out by your vet. If you’re worried about your constipated dog call your vet or, out of hours, your nearest Vets Now. If it’s not an emergency but you would like some advice, book an online video consultation with our vets here. Are you worried about your constipated dog?

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Give Your Dog a Stool Softener

Your vet may tell you to give your dog a stool softener. Some dogs can take stool softeners meant for humans, but others should not. This is one of the many reasons why you should speak to your vet before medicating your dog, especially with medications that are not originally intended for dog use.

Your vet may also suggest you simply exercise your dog more for a few days and see if that helps. Many times, dogs will improve their pooping habits if they are taken on longer walks or are engaged in outside play for longer periods of time than they’re used to. A lack of exercise can contribute significantly to constipation in dogs.

What Happens When Constipation in Dogs Goes Untreated

If your dog’s constipation goes untreated, they could reach the point where they become unable to empty their colon on their own (a condition called obstipation). The colon then becomes packed with an uncomfortably large amount of feces, causing lethargy, unproductive straining, loss of appetite, and potentially vomiting.

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 pets condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Top 4 Home Remedies for Dog Constipation (Safe, Natural and Effective)

In terms of digestive issues in dogs, constipation is one of the most common issues seen by our Stockton vets. You might not think its too serious, but constipation can be life-threatening depending on the underlying cause.

If your pups bowel movements are infrequent, difficult for them to pass or absent, your pet is likely suffering from constipation.

Its important for pet parents to know that the inability to pass feces or pain associated with passing feces is considered a veterinary medical emergency and requires urgent care!

If your dog is straining when attempting to pass a stool and/or is producing hard, dry stools, these are also considered signs that your dog should be examined by a vet as soon as possible.

In some cases, dogs may pass mucus when trying to defecate, circle excessively, scoot along the ground, or squat frequently without defecating. If you press on their stomach or lower back, they may have a tense, painful abdomen that causes them to growl or cry.

There are a number of possible causes of constipation in dogs, some of the most common include:

Elderly pets may experience constipation more often. However, any dog that faces one or more of the scenarios above can suffer from constipation.