How to Treat Dog Constipation

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By alexadry

dog constipation
dog constipation

Some helpful products for constipated dogs

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How to treat dog constipation at home

You are walking your dog as usual on a peaceful day in the park. Suddenly, your dog stops and positions itself to have a bowel movement. Normal routine, once done you head for home. But this time you notice your dog is straining. Chances are, if your dog strains and has a dry, firm bowel movement it is a case of constipation. But if your dog strains and there is no sign of bowel movement then this is a case of obstipation. Of course, the latter is more worrisome and should concern the owner more if the dog keeps on regularly straining throughout the day without producing anything.


Potential causes of constipation

Cures for constipation will depend on causes. Some cases may be treated at home through a natural home remedy while others need immediate vet attention. Most worrisome cases are those where dogs develop other symptoms along with constipation.

  • If your dog is a "foreign object eater" starts to strain and does not produce a bowel movement, then a dog intestinal obstruction should be suspected especially if the dog starts vomiting as well and is unable to keep food down. Do not be tricked though if you dog develops some diarrhea, as sometimes some feces make it though around the obstruction in this liquid form. If your dog loves ingesting rocks, buttons, coins or just anything and the above symptoms seem all too familiar then a prompt vet visit is required. X-rays will confirm the obstruction and emergency surgery may be needed. To read more about this see: Dog Intestinal Blockage
  • If you dog does NOT have the "vacuum cleaner" reputation but the above symptoms still appear too much familiar have him still seen as there are other causes such as polyps, tumors, intestinal intussusception or an enlarged prostate that may block the passage of stools.
  • Sometimes the issue is lower down the road. Rectal abscesses, fistulas, prolapse, or an anal tumor may be the contributing factor. Search the area for any abnormalities or have a vet check the rectal area since many times the problem may not be visibly seen.
  • Some endocrine conditions such as hypothyroidism or parathyroid's may cause constipation. A regular thyroid level test may be helpful to rule these conditions out.
  • Sometimes parasites may bring a bout of constipation. Whipworms are a known cause. Have your dog's stool checked for parasites. The stool needs to be not older than 12 hours old for testing accuracy.
  • Neurological damage may disrupt nerves related to promoting bowel movements. This can occur due to trauma, nerve damage,or spinal cord disease to name a few.
  • Pain in the hind legs (think hip dysplasis), back problems or tail problems may cause a dog to become reluctant to empty the bowels.
  • Sometimes the trigger is a medication that your dog has been taking. Diuretics, antihistamines and anti acids may be the culprits. Read the medication's label carefully and see if constipation is listed as a side effect.
  • There are some cases, where a dog has had diarrhea, and the owner notices that after wards, the dog is straining. Often owners believe that this is a sign of constipation, but more often than not the dog simply still has the stimulus to poop but is only dealing with the after math of the runs. See home remedies for dog diarrhea if this is the case, do not treat as case of constipation!
  • On a lighter note, diet is often a common cause. Your dog may just simply need a little extra fiber. As a home remedy you can try to add one to two teaspoons of regular pumpkin (not pie filling) to its food. This helps keep things moving. Pun intended!
  • Dogs that do not drink enough or are not exercised much may get a little constipated now and then. Lifestyle changes by investing in a water fountain, encouraging more exercise and adding a bit of fiber to the diet may help.


Vet recommends pumpkin and Metamucil for dog constipation

Dog Constipation Home Remedies

Please note: when constipation is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite and vomiting then it has gone too far. The vet needs to be seen as soon as possible.Constipation may cause a dog to become dehydrated.The dog may need fluids in order to be re-hydrated and an enema. Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water if he is constipated. Medications such as docusate sodium (Colace) or Lactulose may be prescribed by your vet to help soften stools.

Also note: Owners must be informed that over the counter enemas are for human use only, they can be toxic to our pets and provide more trouble than relief. Your vet may give you directions on how to administer a warm, soapy enema yourself.


  • Some people have had success adding some bran to dog food. Others have been adding a sprinkle of Metamucil, however this should be added to canned food only and with plenty of water.
  • Plain pumpkin (not the pie mix with spices) may help a constipated dog get come healthy fiber.
  • Dogs that are lactose intolerant have benefited from drinking milk or eating dairy products. However, care must be provided in not giving too much or the opposite problem will shortly arise! See Home Remedies for Dog Diarrhea should this occur.
  • Adding some moisture to dry dog food may help. A few teaspoons of water added to kibble should suffice.
  • Mineral oil ( 1 tbsp per 10 lbs.) will sometimes relieve the most severe cases of constipation, however administer it only mixed in with food. Do not administer it orally directly such as through a syringe or by placing it on the tongue! Keep in mind as well to use mineral oil sparingly since if used too often it will interfere with proper absorption of vitamins.
  • Lack of exercise just as in humans is known to slow things down. Provide a good exercise regimen and plenty of water.
  • Senior dogs can be prone to constipation. Try adding extra fiber or putting your dog on senior diet which contains more fiber. Check labels for fiber contents. Provide always fresh water as senior dogs sometimes do not drink enough. Exercise may help as well, try two short walks a day versus, one long tiring walk.
  • Some dogs develop obstipation post surgery. This may be a normal occurrence due to the fact that the dog has fasted the night before and is likely to refuse food after wards. Recovery time and pain are other contributing factors. The dog should relieve itself soon as regular diet is re-introduced , pain meds are administered and recovery takes place.
  • Owners should be aware that dogs with frequent bouts of constipation may become prone to a condition known as Mega colon. This condition is irreversible ( unless surgery is performed) and requires frequent enemas and trips to the vet to manually empty the bowels. This can be painful and very annoying.

It should be therefore, up to the owner's discretion to properly identify a case which can be treated at home from a case that requires immediate vet attention. Constipation can be easily diagnosed by an attentive owner however, successfully diagnosing the underlying cause of constipation is another story.

Any time your dog exhibits a symptom that does not go away, appears unexplainable, and/or is accompanied by other symptoms and pain please drive him at a minimum by a vet or emergency center the same day. As a regular rule of thumb, use discretion. If something is worrisome do not hesitate to have your dog seen by the vet. In simple words, when in doubt, get on route!

Disclaimer:The above article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian nor is the source to be used as a diagnostic tool as there may be various conditions that may resemble the descriptions provided

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Dog Constipation Comments

byee profile image

byee 3 years ago

Thanks for this. Our pug had really bad diarrhea so we started feeding her boiled chicken. But then she hasn't pooped in 3 days! We took her to the vet this morning and she did tell us to give her some canned pumpkins. Hopefully this will get things "moving"!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

Canned pumpkin works great and works both ways, for diarrhea it absorbs excess water, for constipation it adds fiber.

ruth z 3 years ago

How much pumpkin should I give to a dog weighing 17 pounds?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

You can start with giving a tablespoon and seeing the results, give more of give less accordingly. I would not give more than 2 tablespoons. Make sure it is not the pumpkin pie filling with spices, it has to be just plain pumpkin!

savan 3 years ago

hi

sarah 3 years ago

MY DOG HAS AN HABBIT OF TEARING HER BLANKET AND EATING BITS OF IT SHE AS BECOME CONSTIPATED DO U THINK DIS IS THE PROBLEM

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

It's hard to say as only an x-ray may tell if there is a big piece or a conglomerate of little pieces that may be obstructing her bowels. Is she also refusing food or vomiting? If she is acting sick I would definetly have her seen by a vet and x-rayed for piece of mind.

maddy 3 years ago

ummmmm what do i do if my dog is constipated but he tries to poop and all he can do is pee? hes a pom

Aysha 3 years ago

my dog just threw up,she is shaking and she has been trying to poop for so long

what can i do?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

Sorry to hear about that. I think your dog should be seen at this point. I wished there was something you could do at home but the symptoms sound worrisome. Does she tend to eat objects ie rocks, socks, bones, etc?

Sheri Phillips 3 years ago

My Winnie Dog was fixed last Thursday over a week ago and he is constipated. I took him to the vet and I did give him a ham bone Thankgiving but I think that added to the mess. I vet went in his anal and pulled out some hard, gritty stool but he is still yelling when he tries to poop. He has passed and few small soft stools and just a bit ago he passed a hard stool. I went and got some pumpkin and mineral oil so hopefully this will help. He is urinating, eating and we took him for a walk too. He is really wanting to be in mom or dad's lap at all times. With makes me feel bad that he is so upset about it. He is constantly hunching and trying to go. He barks and seems fine until he tries to poop and then he gets all upset. I want to try to clear it up without going to the vet again due to that was a very disturbing ordeal. If you have any advise on this situation I would appreciate it very much.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

The main concern here is if there is an obstruction. His hunched up posture means that he has abdominal pain. I would suggest a vet visit again as there can be an obstruction. I hope by now he is feeling better, best wishes!

S.B. 3 years ago

I have an older dog that suddenly got a loss of appatite & he doesn't drink enough water (it's always available). So, he might be a little constipated? He eats a natural home-made diner (no artifical, processed dog food) & we think it's lack of fiber. He's also a horribly fussy eater!

What foods can be used to help him pass stools better? Also, what are good, natural fiber foods that can be added to his food? Is veggies good for fiber? Please let me know, thanks.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

As mentioned above, canned pumpkin works very well, you can try to add one to two teaspoons of regular pumpkin (not pie filling) to his food. However, I think the loss of appetite is a bit unusual and perhaps shuold be investigated by a vet.

JaniceO 3 years ago

I have an 8 year old German Shepherd who has perianal fistulas, which are under control and are clearing up with the help of Atopica. However he has just started eating rocks and dirt out of one of our plants. Now he is "obstipated". I just gave him some milk and will take him for a walk. I do believe he suffers from boredom, but I can't leave him with anyone because he is aggressive. Do you think this is being caused by the boredom, medication, or fistulas, and what should I do?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 years ago

I really hope this dog is not suffering from a foreign body obstruction! Watch carefully for any vomiting, straining to defecate, hunched up position and liquid diarrhea making its way through. Eating rocks is not good! Yes, he may do it from boredom, but this must be stopped! Is there any way you can get him away from the rocks? Can you crate him? Create a safe fenced area with no rocks? At worse, muzzle him when near rocks? On a lighter note, the fistulas may surely play a role in the symptoms you are seeing. He may be "keeping it" because he has pain upon defecating. Clipping the hair around the anal area may be helpful to keep the area clean. Flushing the area with lots of warm water may give some relief. Some vaseline may help sooth the rectum, after he goes. Walking more than normal may elicit him to go. High fiber foods should be fed so his stools are softer and easier on the area. Canned pumpkin may help achieve this.

I really hope this is nothing serious, keep a watchful eye on him developing signs of obstructions and try to limit access to rocks. Many dogs had emergency surgery because of rock eating habits! Hope he gets better soon -unfortunately, his breed is prone to this problem- and that the Atopica starts taking effect! My best wishes!

worried 2 years ago

I left my dog with what i thought was a friend. The day we went to pick him up, he was laying on the ground not moving in the backyard i called his name and all he would do is wagg his tail. I ran over to him and seen he was having a heatstroke. He was laying right beside a hole he had been digging and eating the mudd to get water. We pulled him through it but, he's not acting right now.He'll drink water and lots of it but, he wont eat. He turns his head at everything we put in front of him. I think the mudd is the problem. He pee's just fine but he doesnt have a bowel movement. Right now im laied off work and cant afford the bill to take him to the vet. Does anyone know something i can give him so he can pass the mudd so he will eat????????? please someone help me

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

Hmm..this does not sound good. Is the dog showing any other signs of heatstroke? ie red gums instead of pink and a high rectal temperature? are you sure he is over it?  read this for more info:

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/heat-stroke/page1.asp

Fiber may help him pass some of the mud he ate. Whole grain bread, bran flakes, plain canned pumpkin (with no spices added) a couple of spoons of any of these and lots  to drink may help him pass the mud, but my concern is if he ate some stones that may blocking his intestines.

If finances are a problem and he seems not to be getting any better, google search ''care credit'' the are a financial institution that may help pet owers in need. My best wishes for this poor fellow!

 

 

harry 2 years ago

my dog is only 9 weeks old and every time she goes to go she is struggling and is crying at the same time.. she finaly gets it out but her ass is very red what should i do

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

Could she have eaten a non food item, like a bone or a piece of stick? Is she doing better now that she has gone or does she still try to defecate and cry? If she still seems in trouble, because she is so small I would have her seen by a vet. Some canned pumpkin may help soften her stools, but it takes time to start working.

You can apply a thin layer of plain Neosporin to her rectal area to give her relief and repeat it twice a day. Make sure she does not lick it off (it is not harmful but simply needs to be absorbed by the skin).

If her butt appears very red and swollen suspect rectal prolapse, something that needs immediate vet attention. Read here for a better description and symptoms:http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2090&a

harry 2 years ago

thanks alot for the advise, just end up taking her to the vet. they said she has worms

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

Happy to hear she is ok, best wishes!

Suni 2 years ago

Hi, My 3 year old mini poodle is constipated he tries to go and groans and cries, I see something coming out and its soft not liquid. We gave him leftovers of a cajun sausage on Sunday and he hasn't been right ever since. I gave him some milk this evening to see if that will work and I will also stop at the store tommorrow morning to pick up some canned pumpkin. do you think the sausage had something to do with it? Should I take him to the vet? I hate to see him sad like this :(

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

hmmmm.... usually spicy foods would cause vomiting, diarrhea or even pancreatitis..are you sure he has not had any diarrhea? is he indoors or outdoors? could he have had diarrhea outdoors and you may have not noticed? Sometimes dogs have diarrhea and afterwards, develop tenesmus, in other words a spasm like if needing to go but being unable to go because there is nothing left to poop...if in doubt, canned pumpkin is great because it works both ways for diarrhea or constipation..

Walking him may stimulate a bowel movement, if you believe he is constipated, however, I am always of the opinion that when a dog is uncomfortable and cries, he may need to see the vet.. sometimes there is an oddly shaped stool stuck in the rectal canal that may be needed to be manually removed by the vet.. or it could be he ate something that may be painful to pass, keep him hydrated as much as you can if possible and again if he is discomfort I would recommend having him seen, there may be chances he has a blockage, a problem with his anal glands or mild to severe constipation..my best wishes

Stacy 2 years ago

I have a Miniature Schnauzer who is 8 months old. She usually eats Iams dried dog food. A couple of days ago I gave her canned Iams food and now she is constipated. When she tries to poop she is very uncomfortable. I don't mean to be graphic but the poop that's trying to come out of her is twice as big as normal. What should I do?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

I hope by now she was able to pass that stool and that she is feeling ok. For future reference, passing some vaseline in the rectal area may help pass a large stool like that, but in some cases it needs to be manually removed by the vet, especially if there is a foreign object making things particularly difficult.

Boschski 2 years ago

Hey I have a year old lab....last night he ingested some bones from a slab of ribs we had for dinner. Today he had puked three times, had diahrea twice, and is acting constipated...he squats and grunts. What can I or should I do?

Alyssa 2 years ago

yes my dog is haveing problem shitting he gets in his position and stats yelping it is so said he has done this at least 7 times.

Alyssa 2 years ago

yes my dog is haveing problem shitting he gets in his position and stats yelping it is so said he has done this at least 7 times.

Barb 2 years ago

Where can I find canned pumpkin... I know of pumkin pie filler but that is it...

Chae Chae 2 years ago

i think maii baby is constipatwd :(

Nina 2 years ago

I just bought an 8 week pitbull today. We fed her puppy chow, gave her some water, and took her outside to do the restroom. So when she went she couldn't get the stool to drop. It was just stuck there, so I put on some gloves, and pulled out the poop. Then she had to go again and the same thing happened this time she pooped something like a rubberband, but i had to pull that out too. I think shes still constipated though, so what should i do.

holly L 2 years ago

MY DOG IS CONSTIPATED WHAT SHOULD I DO

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

Please read the article, it gives various options on how to help constipated dogs and what to watch for.

Virginia 2 years ago

Our Beagle Terrier Female (3yrs old) began struggling to have a bowel movement about a week ago. After about 2 days she was protecting her back with tail tucked. Wouldn't let us raise tail without yelping. Took her to vet Monday and Vet tried various things such as enimas, fluids under the skin, dolcolax, and decided after xrays showing she was VERY full of feces, decided to anesthetise her and try to relieve her problem by physically removing what she could. She was only able to remove a bit about 4 - 5 inches. This was extremely hard and had bits of bone in it. I had given our two dogs store bought Smoked Bones like I had before, but we haven't had this problem before. Our concern is that she might have swallowed something that is obstructing bowel movement. After third day (took back each morning for more treatment) she still hasn't passed anything. We are treating at home in evening and at Vet during day. She strains and only a drop or two of blood will pass. Started Amoxicillin Monday and Blood count is improved today (Wed) but no resolution to bowels moving. Vet sent us home with 4 enima's to use over the evening and told us to add Metamucil to soft wet dog food. After $650.00 in vet bills for the three days and no resolution I'm not sure what to do. At this point (2 days till Xmas) I'm told to continue to treat at home and if no resolution soon or if dog begins to vomit or gets lethargic, we will have to do surgery.

HELP. Any advice?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

It does sound like something is blocking her. As the vet said, I think it is best to watch and see if she gives signs of improvement or not getting better. Vomiting, straining, abdominal pain, hunched up positions are all signs of an obstruction. Unfortunately, surgery if this is the case, is the only way to go. Hope by now the situation has improved, my very best wishes.

Sofia 2 years ago

I have an 11 year old pitbull. He has been straining for the last 3 days but only produces thin ropes of poo that are soft. He has to go every hour and sometimes he cant produce anything. Do you think the pumpkin will work in this case?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

In this case, I would think he should be seen,rather than trying home remedies. Since he is producing thin ropes of poop this may suggest something is blocking such as an enlarged prostate.

samantha 2 years ago

i have an 9wk old puppy and shes so far been really easy to mantain diet wise.until today that is...she ate a considerable amount of wet puppy food and is now bloated beyond belief.it feelsa like she has a grapefruit in her belly and she seems miserable and unable to have a bm.what do i need to do?

MrChris 2 years ago

My dogs is sick and i dont know what to do. He is a toy poodle and he has a bloated stomach. He wont eat or poop and has a runny nose and sometimes has cramps. What should i do???

Geocyn profile image

Geocyn 2 years ago

Take him to his Vet. He may have eaten something that will not pass and have a blockage in his lower intestines. He could have impacted anal glands that have become infected. This is not a small problem and not one that you are equipped to deal with at home. It could be nothing but it could also be very serious. Vet care is required.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

I agree, this sounds more like something needing urgent care.

ems 2 years ago

hi alexadry, thanks for sharing this article with us. its very informative. my dog blondie a shitzu-japanese spitz mix is turning 14 years old in june. however, these past few months, i have noticed that she is usually constipated, my vet told me to give her lactulose everyday to compliment her diet. (she eats mostly eukanuba dogfood) and occassionally mixed veggies (she hates veggies). i also give her fibrosine (for fiber, as the vet instructed). and since then she has normal stools, i stopped giving her lactulose about a week ago, and noticed that she's having a hard time again. is she going to be dependent on lactulose forever? btw, i noticed that she's been pooping drops of blood. im going to have to bring her to the vet tomorrow.

Tarah 2 years ago

Hi hope someone can help my dog seems blocked up though some runny poo is getting out he is still eating as normal though. Is a dogs gums meant to be white

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

No, a dog's gums are supposed to be a nice bubble gum pink color. White is a sign that something seriously wrong may be going on, have him seen as soon as you can!

michael clark 2 years ago

have a toy poodle about 14 lbs around 3 months old and she will have a regular bm then the next time will act like she needs to but keeps moving and squating and moving across ground trying to clean herself....in the past few weeks have had to clean her hind quarter three or four times due to it collecting just below the tail.....she still eats and seems to drink ok and has not exhibited nausa...again in between times she is having regular movements then off and on she strains....she loves to catch the pantry door open (have kids) and raid the toilet paper, im sure digesting some...could this be one of the issues and what would you recommend..we feed her eukanuba dogfood but while house training her have left her in a section of the house by herself during the day - this is when they symptoms began presenting themselves...could it be an emotional problem..lol

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

Squatting as you describe may be a sign of worms, has she been dewormed lately? I think she should have a stool checked by the vet just to rule this out. Most puppies comes with worms unfortunately. If her poop is getting tangled in the hair near her bum, it may help shaving her down a bit there. Another possibility is that she may be experiencing problems with her anal glands, two glands found at 5 o' clock and 7 0'clock around her anus. is her poop solid? If not solid enough to be coming out cleanly, you can try to add some canned pumpkin (just the plain version with no spices added). A teaspoon added to her food may help. The great thing is that pumpkin works both ways: it helps firm stool up if the stools are too soft or it softens it if it is too dry.

Try to puppy proof your home and keep pantry an bathroom doors closed. Puppies do not need to have the run of the house. Both my dogs are adult and they are not allowed in these rooms since they were pups. Better stay out of trouble since puppies may injest just anything potentially causing an intestinal obstruction, which often means surgery. Best wishes!

kittyfan 2 years ago

i have a 8 week old mini dachshund and he if sick throwing up and a hard time pooping just a little of liquid but still drinking water what should i do?

ken 2 years ago

thx...

briana 2 years ago

Our cocker spaniel is constipated and wont drink milk or eat pumpkin what can i do???

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 years ago

If the appetite is gone it is best to have your dog seen by a vet. If it is just a matter of taste, try to add the pumpkin to your dog's food. Best wishes!

Wyndie 2 years ago

What can I use here at home right now to help my 2 year old female dash hound have a bowl movement? She is humped up, she is waddling not walking right, she seems to be bloated and uncomfortable. We have checked her temp. which is 101, we have massaged her tummy as well as her bottom and we have been walking her long distances.

ingsley 2 years ago

Hi, I my Staff has not been able to have a no2 now for about 4 days, he is trying but only fluid and sometimes a little blood is coming out, we have changed his diet to only dry mix and water. should i takr him to the vet??

flower 2 years ago

Hi

my bichon frise ran away last night, and now that he is back, he cannot poop. I think he probably ate something he shouldn't have. He's drinking plenty of water, but won't eat. And he is laying around, so he i don't think he feels good. Should i try the pumpkin? can all dogs eat pumpkin?

flower 2 years ago

I feed him pumpkin, and he pooped by the end of the night.

IDK 22 months ago

Hi, I have an 11 pound dachshund at the age of three and my family and I were out for two weeks on a family emergency. For the first week she was at the vets, then the second my friend would come over for awhile and let her out and feed her. Now, she's having a hard time going to the bathroom. She will squat, but sometimes she doesn't poo or its very stringy looking. Mt parents are going to get some of that pumpkin stuff, but is it something different or not? And if it is, what should we do?

rebecca 22 months ago

i have a 11 year old bearded colllie and he is constipated and i dont know what do to he is trying to go like all the time but nothing is happening iam worried if it is something else what should i do ?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 22 months ago

Rebecca, take your dog to the vet!

joy 21 months ago

My 14 year old female miniature schauzer is constipated and has been so for 2 weeks. She strained all night trying to have a BM. I took her to the vet where she had an enemia, x ray revealed backed up stool and gas but nothing else. She was given a med twice daily and treated for pancreatitus. She did well for a week but constpiation returned. I was told to give her 1/2 tsp daily metamucil and 1 tsp mineral oil daily. 3 days and no BM. Appetite is great, drinking lots of water, walking, and spunky. Any ideas besides pumpkin?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 21 months ago

Senior dogs are often prone to constipation. You can try walking her more as movement encourages bowel movements. Make sure access to water is always available, many senior dogs do not drink enough. Bran may be helpful as well, you may also ask your vet if he thinks Lactulose may be helpful. Below is a link:

http://www.petplace.com/drug-library/lactulose/pag

Lynee 21 months ago

Hey my little yorkie is seriously constipated, he is very miserable and bloated. I do not have any pumpkin, but I have sweet potatoes, I know they are high in starch, but will they loosen his stool, or is there something else I can try at home?

evvy_09 profile image

evvy_09 21 months ago

Thanks so much for the advice. My poor dog was constipated and so I gave him some milk and he pooed about an hour ago! lol he seemed happy about it anyways.

Lisboa67 20 months ago

My dog,border collie,has been shaking on and off for 2 days now.He will still eat but not vast amounts.Have given him some milk and he has done his business a couple of times,but it is very small thin amounts.

Amber 20 months ago

My little 7 month old puppy has poop on her butt and when she tries to poop nothing. I really don't know what to do so please help. No one is home right now except me and I'm worried that it is hurting her. And my other dog is fat so if any advice it would be very helpful.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 20 months ago

Amber you have a great amount of home remedies listed in the article if you think she is constipated.

It sounds though from your description that perhaps she has some matted fur or some stool trapped there? Can you wear some gloves and try to see why the poop is on her butt? Can you try to very gently remove it if the pup allows you to? Don't force it though if you see it is stuck in the rectum as you may cause damage if there is part of a string or a foreign object stuck there. If she is acting uncomfortable most likely it is because that poop is there and she feels like getting if off and cannot.

If you cannot help her out I would call a vet for advice. Some will come to your home.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 20 months ago

Lisboa, shaking sounds not good at all. Time to see the vet!

Concerned Fur-mom 20 months ago

So glad I found this site ...

Our Bichon (almost 5) hasn't pooped in three days and needless to say, we're getting a little worried ... were going to take her to the vet tomorrow but hoping to find some home remedy ... will run out to the supermarket in the a.m. to get some canned pumpkin and try that.

Here is the situation, though ... a little hesitant on the food front because she had bladder stones removed two years ago and so is on a VERY restricted diet as a result (but I figure a little something OFF the diet wouldn't be as bad as severe constipation) ...

She had surgery for a torn ACL nine days ago and is on pain meds (75 MG of tramadol per day). But she spent the first seven days post-surgery boarding at the vet's office so I am sure if she had been having problems with this there, they would have told us when we picked her up on Monday.

Monday night she was definitely NOT constipated ... had a HUGE double-accident (and she almost never has them in the back part of the house and this was the first time she'd EVER had one in my study), not quite runny but definitely loose. However, she has not "gone" since then (she's eating normally, drinking water, and peeing regularly).

I know this sounds crazy, but she hates anyone watching her when she poops, and tends to go out into a corner of the backyard to do so. But because of the surgery, we have to keep her leashed and can't let her "loose' outside so I wonder if she actually has "shy colon" right now rather than specific constipation? I've tried taking her to her favorite spot and turning my back but it's not working ;)

Maybe the pumpkin will force the issue ... fingers crossed.

sanah 20 months ago

our 3 month old poodle puppy i think has got constipations . he was fine and active the whole day but suddenly started whimpring and whining i dont really think he has swallowed some thing but i do think he must be dehydrated we gave him water but he would not touch it ,i have also noticed he has not been eating his food lately. are constipations death prone plz help

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 20 months ago

Sanah, this sounds like something quite serious. Your puppy is small and things can go quickly downhill if you do not seek immediate vet attention. I do not like the symptoms you are describing. Try giving some ice cubes to lick if not interested in water and take to the vet.

sharon 20 months ago

hi, my dog, a patterdale cross, has been constipated for the past few days, she is eating and drinking fine but seems to be passing wind quite a lot and they are really smelly. do you know what this could mean? is there anything i can do to help it?

Daisy 19 months ago

My name is daisy, i have a 4 year old poodle, he has been crying and unable to poop for the past 4 days, he is laying and woke get up, i am extremely worried, what should i do?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 19 months ago

Daisy, if your dog is so uncomfortable I would highly recommend a vet visit, your dog may have an intestinal obstruction. Any vomiting? This sounds like something serious!

Heidi M 19 months ago

My dog has been a little constipated for the last two days. He pooped this morning, however, he still seems to be straining to get something out. He also has been chasing his tail/bum as if there is something on there bugging him. Could that be related to his constipation? Is it something I should take him to a vet for?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 19 months ago

I have a special saying when it comes to such situations ''when in doubt, get on route'' meaning to your vet. Did she have bones lately? It could be some pieces may have trouble coming out... but it can also be an anal gland problem, or something stuck in her rectum like a piece of string, hair or blade of grass...I would take her to the vet if this is continuing to bother her, best wishes!

Khristal 19 months ago

Hi,how are you?My dog has not taken a poop in 2 days.I didn't know what to do, so I called my vet and she said to try pumpkin..That fine,so I gave him a little bit but some how he go the can off the table.He eat half of the can..I know that you have said to other people to only give 2 tablespoons.Is what he ate going to hurt him, or just make him go alot more?? Can't wait to hear from you.. Thank you.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 19 months ago

It shouldn't really hurt, especially if your dog is on the large spectrum when it comes to size. You may expect some larger stools and perhaps a bit of gas, but nothing major should be going on. Keep an eye on him, best wishes!

SHa,sha 18 months ago

I have toy poodle on Tuesday he had diarrhea then later on that day he went out to poop it was form.On Wednesday he had diarrhea again now as bad as Tuesday but his behind is very red. What cause him to have diarrhea and do you think I should take him to vet.

jimmy 18 months ago

My 2month blue nose pit is vomiting , shakes a little when he lays down , really weak & wont eat and only dink a litte it of water whats wrong with him /; ?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 18 months ago

Yes, a vet visit is in order for both. For shasha the below hub may be helpful but if his bottom is red I would have him seen:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Home-remedies-for-dog-diar

for jimmy, I would see a vet here is another helpful hub>

http://hubpages.com/hub/Dog-upset-stomach-home-rem

It could be gastro-enteritis, parvo, or he may have ate something hamrful, have him see a vet since he is so small. Best wishes to both!

jimmy 18 months ago

thank you alexa

laura 18 months ago

my dog went pooped yesterday a little on the wet side. today when i take him out in the am he just keeps hunching over and trying to make his bowel movement, but nothing comes. i bring him inside and same thing like hes trying to make the bowel movement but nothing comes. seems he can relax he licks at his rear end too i think something may be wrong

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 18 months ago

What you are likely seeing is called ''tenesmus'' which is often confused with constipation. This is often a symptom of colitis, this link will be helpful and offers the possible solution to the problem if this sounds the case. Have your dog seen by a vet if symptoms continue, best wishes!

http://www.vetbase.co.uk/information/colitis-expla

Zeus 18 months ago

My five month old puppy had really bad diarrhea for two days. We were afraid he might have parvo, so right before we took him to the vet he started vomiting. He threw up a sock that he ingested and then an hour later threw up two more socks. His diarrhea disappeared and he is able to keep his food down. However, he hasn't had a bowel movement for two days now. We're scared he might have another object obstructing his intestines.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 18 months ago

it is hard for me to give an opinion on this as truly only an x-ray may provide the truth. However, consider that this pup has had diarrhea for two days and vomited as well, it could simply be that there has not been enough food in the intestines to form stools. You can watch monitor him carefully, if he is eating, active and vomiting anymore it could be he is fine. If he vomits, refuses food, strains to defecate and seems in pain then yes, very likely there may be problems... best wishes!

SRM9487 18 months ago

I have a pure bred Black English Lab. He si about 80 pounds not and 11 Months old. I have not really seen him poop. He threw up yesterday from a dog toy made of tire. Now he seems to have not eaten his food. Drinking seems okay though. Any suggestions? He has had a few rawhide bones that he has totally eaten up. Maybe hes filling up on Hide and not dog food???

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 18 months ago

Is he feeling good, bright, alert other than not eating his food? I would keep an eye on him for signs of an intestinal blockage just in case. Rawhide bones and toys if swallowed in large pieces may block the intestines at times. I will direct you to my other hub so you know what signs to look for. It could simply be he has not pooped because he threw up yesterday and has not eaten dog food and therefore there is not much food in stomach to form the stools, however, if he still does not go, vomits and shows signs of blockage do not hesitate to have him seen by a vet, best wishes! see link below for details

http://hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intestinal-blo

Tiron 18 months ago

I got a 6 month chihuahua dog, he suddendly started to not eat,poop, or move at all, i heard him screaming one time and i took him inside and he would not stand up. he would fall each time i picked him up and placed him down.. he is losing weight and now he is skinny and shakes alot.. pls HELP!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 18 months ago

Rub his gums with pancake syrup (to raise blood sugar) and head to your vet immediately! this sounds very serious, do not waste time online, best wishes!

'ekahi 18 months ago

i have a 7 week old pit bull pup.i took her to the vet 2 days ago because she was weak and wouldn't eat or drink anything, she was starting to have puss blisters all over her stomach and legs and she had worms ( i wormed her the day before). the vet told me that she had a bad infection and that she had worms, and she was anemic. they put her on antibiotics and told me to gove her pepcid ac to coat her stomach because of the worms. now she wont poop. PLEASE HELP

aretha 17 months ago

ii have an eight week old yorkie and he just got his second shot of the parvo virus and he hasnt had any symptoms from it. but im not sure if he has colitis or constipation(we dewormed him yesterday) because when he gets in the position to poop, he starts crying so loud and screaming. my cousin called the vet and told they told her that still having worms is normal but the crying while he in pooping isnt. and im not sure if i sould take him in or give him pumkin and see what happens.

katey 17 months ago

my 7wk old yorkiepoo, just yelped in pain wile.pooping, she was walking around, trying to ruby her bottom on thee floor, i picked her up, and she had a very thin piece of poo, stuck. i wiped it all outwith a warm rag, and cleaned it with baby shampoo, and applied slight pressure to hr rectum & abdomen to see if she wimpered or showed any sign of pain, she didn't. she just went and ate...I found her poop though, it was the way it normally is, soft, but solid,& light colored, no blood or anything, & her rectum is slighty pink..

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 17 months ago

Some sensitive dogs get into distress when some poop remains trapped around their bum.. by rubbing her bun on the floor she was desperately trying to remove it herself.. you helped her deal with the problem and she should now be ok...

you can trim some hair around the bum if it is too long and traps feces there.. this happens at times,,

it may be the poop contained something that was half way through the rectum and was not easy to come out.. if she is acting normally I would not be concerned. keep an eye her the rest of the day if you can. best wishes!

Rene 17 months ago

Hi! I think my dog may have eaten about 5 squares of deli havarti cheese yesterday that I was throwing away (I found the bag on the floor and I'm pretty sure I'd put it in the trash, plus, there was no cheese in it lol.). I took him out earlier and he only was able to let out something that looked a little runny. I just took him out again (a few hours later for about 15 mins) and he did not go at all. He IS urinating and acting normal. He doesn't seem to be in pain. I'm just wondering if the cheese or amount of cheese is at all toxic? Should I be alarmed? Thanks in advance for any response you can give :o)

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 17 months ago

Lol! The things dogs get into! At worst, you may see an upset tummy (mostly diarrhea). If this is the case, put him on a bland diet as per my article below:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Home-remedies-for-dog-diar

Best wishes!

Rene 17 months ago

Thank you so much! I really appreciate the prompt response. Have a wonderful day

babypoo 17 months ago

my puppy is a 10week old toy shizu and she pooped some and she tried to poop more but it wouldnt come our and so i tried to pull the poop out and its stuck its all over his fur and theres poop sticking our of his butt what should i do?

babypoo 17 months ago

oh and he acts normal but when i try to take the poop out he makes a whimper what will happen if the poop gets dried on his fur how to i get it out help!! im worried

Badanko 17 months ago

My 4 year old German shepherd recently can't poop anymore even though he's trying and he is very sad and almost seems reluctant to move. He doesn't seem to be in any pain. He vomited at least twice with the food he ate and now he won't eat and barely drinks. We live in a new development and there aren't many people around so we let him wander around and I'm afraid he might have ate something at night and now he it might be stuck somewhere in his intestines. I am really worried. Do you think this is the problem and if so is there anything that I can do to help him right now before I take him to the vet? thank you in advance.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 17 months ago

Babypoop: You will very likely have to trim away the hair and remove any matts so that he can finish pooping. Put him in the tub and use warm water to soften up the poop and carefully trim away the hair. you can also shave the hair away using the clippers. best wishes!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 17 months ago

Badanko: I would be concerned; it may be an intestinal blockage, please see my hub below:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intestinal-blo

Badanko 17 months ago

Well my dad took him to the vet nearby and the vet thinks it might a bacterial infection and gave some medicines for vomiting, pooping, and some antibiotics. He also told us to give him hamburgers with some rice and to feed him often and limit the amount of water he drinks but my dog isn't even eating the food. The vet also suggested that we take him for (not sure what it's called but the procedure where they use sound and echoes to see if he has an intestinal blockage).

Carolyn 16 months ago

For constipation I give my 10 month old Morkie Pumpkin Puree.It has lots of moisture and fiber. I freeze it in ice cube trays and take it out when frozen and put it in plastic bag.She loves it. I warm it before giving it to her..Make sure you don't get pumpkin pie mix. It has sugar and other things dogs shouldn't have.. She loves Greek yogurt,too.It's got lots of Acidophilus which is good for their digestion...

kary 16 months ago

I have a toy poodle terrier mix she is 14 1/2 i noticed she had a bowel movement in her pen that looks like she is constipated and there was blood on a pillow that i had just put in there it was white her other pillows are brown but she is so old she has lots of accidents she will pee on herself and never move like she doesnt notice it. she drinks a lot all day long so i know she is getting enough liquids.her appetite has slowly went down over the last 2 months.do you think this is due to age and its time to let her go? we love this dog Very much!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 16 months ago

I think you can still buy her some time by doing some blood tests and running a urinalysis. The blood on the pillow may also be due to a urinary tract infection if you notice her squatting and only dribbling a few drops of urine. Drinking more and havig less appetite may be due to several conditions that can be treated or at least kept under control. I personally would have her checked and see if there is anything you can do medically to make her feel better. Best wishes!

Jnice 15 months ago

I have 3yr puggle he had surgery on sat cause he pulled a nail out and after I got him home he has not gone to the bathroom ??????

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

Constipation after surgery is quite normal. Most dogs do not exercise much after surgery, plus add the fact they have not been fed that day. Some may also be in pain. Try some plain canned pumpkin or ask your vet for some laxatives. Generally, after surgery dogs may not poop for a day or two.

kimi071708 15 months ago

I wanted to thank you for all the information you provide for all of us worried pet owners. My question is my 9 pound dachshund had surgey on saturday 2-6-11. It was an exploratory surgery to remove a blockage from her stomach (I have the vacuum cleaner), and she was able to start eating normal food monday evening at 5. Since then she has eaten 9 servings of food (1/8 cup every 4 hours) of boiled chicken and rice. She still hasnt pooped yet, and I was wondering if maybe her pain meds are making her constipated, or if maybe she just hasnt eaten enough food in the last 36 hours to have to go yet?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

Being constipated after surgery is quite common. It is often due to the fact that the dog has very likely fasted prior to the surgery and there is not enough food in the system to stimulate a bowel movement. Add to that the fact most dogs do not exercise much after surgery and that they may be in pain.

Also, feeding boiled chicken and rice will not be helping since this is usually fed for dogs suffering from diarrhea. Rice absorbs water making the stools firmer. I am guessing your vet suggested this diet to prevent stomach upsets since it is very bland and easy to digest, ideal for a dog in recovery... but it can have this effect, which is usually temporary.

You can try to add some plain canned pumpkin (not the pie mix with spices added) and see if it helps, or ask your vet for laxatives. But again often after surgery dogs may not go for the first 48 hours therefore it is a sort of waiting game.. Best wishes!

Noelle 15 months ago

I have a 1 year old standard poodle. I thought she was going in heat because of some spoting of blood and she is acting weird. It has been going on now for over a week. The blood now seems to be larger amounts and quite messy. It doesn't look like just blood it has a runny quality to it and I'm worried it may be coming from her bladder. How can I tell? Also she hasn't had a bowel movement for several days. She tries with no success. I thought all of these symptoms were because she is having her first heat but is 1 year old enough and her bleeding and constipation is extreme. This is my first poodle and I'm very worried! Any opinion I would love, and yes we are talking about a vet visit soon. Noelle

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

You can try to wipe her with a white paper towel after she pees so you can see if it is tinged with blood and therefore coming from her bladder. One year is the right time for her heat too though, poodles may go in heat anytime between 6 months and 1 year or a little bit over. I think a vet visit is in order to see what may be going on.

Rob 15 months ago

I have a 20 lb lasapoo and I believe he is constpaited. He doesn't place any weight on his back legs ( as if to jump up on a bed or climb stairs). What can I give him?

Melissa 15 months ago

I just got a 6 wk old miniature schnauzer. He eats and drinks just fine. He has peed but he won't have a bowel movement. He farts but that about it. What can I do to help him have a bowel movement?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

You can try to add a little more fiber to some canned puppy food (for instance a teaspoon of canned pumpkin - not pie filling)and see if it helps.

Melissa 15 months ago

Thank you for your help but it turns out he was just pooping in concealed places while I made his food!

Teresa Northcutt 15 months ago

Hi, Alexadry.

I have a 4 month old shih tzu. I took her to the vet this past weds. to get her shots. After leaving she threw up twice, and they gave her a steroid shot. All day she acted sickly, but the next day she was perfectly fine. Thursday and Friday she had BM a lot. A lot more than usual, there was nothing unusual about the poop though. Starting Friday night through Sunday she would still have BM movements, but at times would almost strain and cry, or squeal like a pig. Her bottom is very red, and swollen. Today is Monday after waking up she tried to poop for 4 hours and couldnt, and was crying constantly. I took her to the vet, and now she is having to stay overnight for an enimen, and I;m very worried about her. He said we just need to hope none of her nerves are damaged. Can you explain more of that to me and what that means? Thank you.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

If she had many BM'S on Friday and then started positioning herself like to have a painful BM, I would not suspect she is constipated. I would rather think that perhaps her bowels were inflamed and she suffered from tenesmus. Tenesmus is often confused for constipation, when in reality the straining is due to inflammation of the bowels causing the dog to continue trying to pass a motion even though there is nothing there and this makes the dog extremely uncomfortable.

Another cause of painful straining may be a bowel obstruction caused by your dog swallowing something that may block the bowels and have a hard time passing.

I think what your vet is suggesting is to hope that the nerves surrounding the external anal sphincter have not been damaged. I am wondering if they are concerned about rectal prolapse: here is a link that better explains this condition:

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/rectal-prolapse-in-do

Hope all resolves well, best wishes!

Dan 15 months ago

Hello,

I read you're article but I'm not exactly sure if it fits in my scenerio. I have a year old husky/blood hound mix. He likes to occasionaly take apart his toys and eat it, or eat pinecones or get in the trash occasionally.

Every so often (Maybe one or every two weeks) he would throw up his food 7 hours later. You can tell its dog food cause some of it is still whole.

I haven't really seen him poop in the last few days, but I normally put him out in the yard for a couple of hours in the morning so Im not really watching him.. but I tried walking around with him this morning and I didn't see him do anything other then pee.

Other then that, he runs around, plays, drinks plenty of water, and eats his food without a problem. (Aside from the random throw up) and doesn't hunch when he walks.

Id take him to the vet, but if I can avoid it, it be a lot easier on my wallet. Any opinion? Should I just try the pumpkin?

Someone recommended just feed him white rice for a few days and let his stomach digest and rest.

Thanks!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 15 months ago

White rice is good to help settle vomiting and diarrhea, but if you are dealing with constipation it will make it worse! You can try the canned pumpkin (without spices added) but have him seen ASAP if he appears lethargic or ill, these may also be signs of intestinal obstruction since you mention he tends to get into stuff, ie pine cones...here is my hub on intestinal obstructions:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intestinal-blo

Best wishes!

Amanda 15 months ago

Hello,

My medium-sized (35lbs) 2.5 year old husky mix, Aurora, has problems passing stool. Aurora was a rescue dog and I adopted her 1.5 years ago. When she poops, she cries/yelps. It is usually on the firm side of normal. She poops about once every 2-3 days. She does not ever have much of an appetite. It takes a while for us to get her to eat her food. We praise her a lot when she does and give her a treat after she is done. Sometimes she does not even want the treat. We have tried a few different kinds of dog food and dog treats. We have brought her to the vet numerous times for this. They once gave us laxative for her, which helped while she took it, but back to hard after it was gone. And she still cried a little at the beginning of the passing even when it was real soft. We tried our own remedies such as walking numerous times a day, water in the dry food, soft food in the dry food, vegetable oil in the dry food, yogurt, carrots, miralax...? I will be trying the pumpkin, but I dont want just a temporary fix. We have brought her to a different vet after the first one, and they said it is just in her breed to be vocal. And another vet that flushed her out and did an x-ray. They said maybe an "odd-shaped colon", but they would have to do "exploratory surgery" to figure out more. THen they did another x-ray and said it looked less abnormal after she was completely flushed out but still said they werent sure. She has had this problem for as long as I have had her, but yesterday it was worse. Yesterday it was the firmest I have felt. She yelped throughout the entire passing. I LOVE my dog and I dont think this is normal. She means the world to me. Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks so much.

Amanda 15 months ago

a few things I forgot to add on to Aurora from above: She does not chew on odd things; there has been a little blood in her stoolin the past, but only a few times; she had heart worm when she was younger before I had her, but does not have it anymore; I have gotten her anal glands expressed a while ago, but the vet said that they were soft enough that I would most likely not need to get them expressed again. Thanks again for any help you can give!

Maria Lucas 14 months ago

My Shitzu is constipated and he is walking really funny I just back into town and my son told me he has been like this all weekend I just spent all my money on a trip I had to take so I can't take him to the vet until payday (friday) is there anything I can do at home until I can take him in?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

The article above offers a variety of dog constipation remedies, please take a look, have her seen tough if she is walking oddly, there may be something else going on..

Amanda 13 months ago

Still haven't heard any feedback on Aurora. Any advice for more long-term remedies?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Yes, this does not sound normal and stating that the breed is vocal does not make sense.Sounds like she is suffering from dyschezia-medical term for painful defecation. Have you tried the pumpkin? I know you are looking for permanent fixes, but people that suffer from constipation are often forced to live on plum juice and bran, for softer stools. Have your vets checked for anal sac abscesses or inflammation? Possible pelvic injuries? This link may be helpful if you have not visited it yet,http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dyschezia-in-dogs-pai

Amanda 13 months ago

Wonderful. Thank you so much for your advice. I had not heard of this before, but I will be looking more into it...and a different vet!

brian 13 months ago

we have a 6 yr. old white shepard. he has not went poop in 4 days. he keeps trying, and hunching up his back and straining bad. but nothing comes out. its like the urge just hits him just like that, but nothing. he eats fine and drinks fine. his tail and bottom area is all brown like he had diarrea bad. we try to get him on walks, but he is about 180 pounds and sort of lazy. have no money to take to vet. do you have any ideas.

Dereck 13 months ago

Hi, I have a 5 year old German shepherd who just won't take a dump! We moved into a new house 4 weeks ago but he hasnt pooped since and normally he would poop everyday. I dont know what to do! He has ben locked up in a small patio and i take him out to pee every 3 hours and that is the only thing he does. Pee.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Brian, I have supplied all the remedies I know of in the article above..my concern is if he has an obstruction and only liquid feces make it through, I am sorry but there is nothing else than can be tried at home. Are you absolutely sure he has not gone at all in four days? If his bottom is dirty could it be he had diarrhea somewhere you have not noticed? If this is the case, you may be dealing with a totally different problem: ''tenesmus''

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Dereck, I find it hard to believe your dog has not gone in four weeks and is still doing fine!.. since he is in a new home, he may have found a new place to go potty, check under the beds, tables, corners. If he lives in the patio, he may have started eating his own feces.. this is disgusting but highly possible..

Asuradech 13 months ago

Thank you so much.

My dog's happy now. :)

Dereck 13 months ago

Hi, well i take him out every now and then but when i do he only pees. i dont think he is eating his poop because the patio is clean and he only goes into the backyard to pee. i have seen no signs of feces anywhere either. its there anything that i can give him that will at least assure me that he can still poop? and that its not a blockage? thanks for the fast reply also :) and i dont want to see a vet because it seems to expensive and he seems normal.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

This is really a mystery! you can try the plain pumpkin remedy offered in my article above, give it a try and walk him a lot.. milk may help too but you may get diarrhea instead..

Dereck 13 months ago

Thanks,i'll try the milk since i have that on hand. i just want to make sure that he can still have bowel movements and that he doesnt have a blockage in his intestines.

Melissa 13 months ago

I have a 10 month old Malti-poo. Every time he goes outside he positions himself to poop but he doesn't do anything. A few times he has whimpered. It seems like constipation but I don't think he has eaten anything out of the norm. Should we take him to the vet? Or is there something we could feed him? Please help! Thank you!

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

You can try the plain canned pumpkin as listed in the article above, but take him to the vet if any other symptoms arise. His whimpering is suggesting he is pain, so a vet visit would be the best approach. He may need an enema, the stools removed digitally from the vet or prescription medication if you are dealing with a severe case of constipation. Please make sure the rectal area is free of hair.

Brittney 13 months ago

I have a 3 wk old pug pup her mom is no longer around so we are bottle feeding her. she is eating great and urinates just fine but is not have bowel movements. what can i use to help her that wont hurt her since she is still so little?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

It is so great you are helping out this little fellow! Try to pass a soft warm wet rag on the bum and genitals, you basically have to mimic what mom would have done with her tongue...this may stimulate the pup to go if it does not work have her seen by the vet as she may need an enema.. my very best wishes!

Brittney 13 months ago

Thats what we were doin with the wet rag. but she has all the sudden stopped wanting to go. so we think she may be stopped up is there anything that we can do for her before taking her to the vet?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Is its belly hard or distended? Does she seem in discomfort? Make sure you are massaging her rectum several times a day..if her mom was there, she would be washing her many times during the day. You can try to give 1/2 a teaspoon of 100% canned plain pumpkin (not the sweetened/spiced pie mix) OR a tiny spoonful of vegetable oil added to the food, however I still recommend a vet visit especially if she is showing signs of discomfort. Best wishes!

Brittney 13 months ago

Ok thanks for the advice.

Mike 13 months ago

Is it safe for a Toy Poodle to eat a teaspoon of pure pumpkin? Is it safe for all dogs on a daily basis?

Daisy 13 months ago

Just wondering If you can offer any suggestions?... My dog is a bulldog and 4 years old. She is generally in good health however today I've noticed her experiencing issues going to the toilet and she has extreme case of gas- bad smelling farts and burps. Her belly is swollen too. She is still drinking water and ate dinner and on her run tonight ran around like normal... Should I be concerned about bloated belly and smelly farts? She doesn't seem to be in pain, but at the same time seems a bit uncomfortable as she moves everytime age farts unless she just doesn't like the smell either! Can anyone offer suggestions?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Mike, Plain pumpkin will not harm as long as it is the plain version with no spices added. It is a great source of fiber and some owners give it on a daily basis if it helps them in fighting constipation.

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alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Daisy, I have been out volunteering for the shelter all day, so I am sorry if my reply comes late. I hope she got better by now, but I would be concerned about bloat, and since she is a deep chested breed this can be a possibility, please have her seen if she is still not doing well.

Daisy 13 months ago

Hi alexadry,

Thank you for your reply, she vomited last night after I wrote my message and

Then this morning I noticed diaorreah in the yard so I was pretty worried. However

Tonight she seems back to normal and no bloated belly. is still best to be on the safe side and take her to see the vet anyway?...

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alexadry Hub Author 13 months ago

Hopefully she got out of her system what was troubling her, it sounds like she is doing better, if she is active, no longer bloated then you can monitor carefully and perhaps try a bland diet for a few days, here is a hub about bland diets;

http://hubpages.com/hub/Dog-upset-stomach-home-rem

Judy 12 months ago

I have an 11 year old great dane and everytime he stands up from a laying position he poops a round turd. Everytime!!! He has never done this before and it has been goin on for 4 days now

Brittney 12 months ago

My pug pup is five and a half weeks old how much food should be feeding her. and how many hours a part?

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alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

The amount you feed depends on the specific type of food you feed, the more fillers in the food, the more you must feed, the more high quality the food generally the less you feed. Read the food labels. Invest in a premium puppy chow, turned into mush by adding tepid puppy milk replacement and served lukewarm. You should use the same food the breeder gave since a sudden diet change may lead to diarrhea. She should be fed every two-three hours. However I am not sure why you have a puppy this young? A puppy must stay with its litter mates and mom until at least 8 weeks to learn important life lessons such as bite inhibition.

Brittney 12 months ago

her mom and brother and sisters died. i have started feeding her puppy chow mushed in milk every four hours just didnt know how much she should be eating.

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alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

Sorry to hear that!I would keep the food in a shallow dish and allow the puppy to eat until it shows no more interest in eating, here are some helpful links:

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2108&a

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/weaning-puppies/page1

BELLA 12 months ago

Hi,tuesday my 4mth old shih-ztu (5-6pds) swallowed my daughters barbie doll headband (for da dolls head)Its a hard plastic sharp like da letter c or u. She is eating and having bowel movements just fine and normal. Still playing, drinking and dosen't look to be in destress when having bm. Do u think she will pass this toy? Today is sat, still acting n eating normal. Still going 3x's a day. I called da vet who of course said bring her in 4 a xray but truthfully can't afford one at da moment. Is there anything I can do 2 help her pass this toy?? Should I look out 4 certain signs that something changed?? What if she dosen't pass this?? Thank You

BELLA 12 months ago

BTW, I rub her belly and she lets me. No crying,whiny or yelping. Its like it never happened but it did cause I saw it and tryed 2 stop her but I could'nt :(. Please tell me my baby is going 2 be fine...

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

Perhaps she chewed it up before swallowing it? From the shape it sounds like something that could cause problems with your dog being small, but some dogs pass incredible things with no problems, did you examine her stools for the headband?

I would assume by now you would have seen problems already, however, the peculiar shape of this item may still allow stool to pass by it depending on how it would position itself in the colon. Bulky meals such as bread, mashed potatoes made with water or canned pumpkin may help things pass, but by now I think their use would not be much effective, but being harmless, it can be worth a try. It sounds like she is doing well, keep an eye on her for vomiting, abdominal pain, straining for stools, suggesting a partial or complete obstruction, unfortunately, the only way to know for sure is by having x-rays done. So it is your call, watch her carefully and have seen as soon as you notice any signs of problems or getting x-rays for peace of mind. I would go this route, x-rays are not tremendously expensive, try to shop around. Best wishes!

BELLA 12 months ago

Thanks for getting back 2 me so soon. I started giving her pumpkin on friday. So, far nothing has change. I dont examine her stools but I do look at it when I pick it up. I haven't seen any signs of it. I figure because of da size I would see it right away. How many days before da pumpkin should start working and how long do puppys usual take 2 pass stuff like that? She is still eating, drinking, playing and going without a problem.

Karina 12 months ago

I have a puppy who is extremley active and loves to eat.She goes to the bathroom 3-4 a day. But yesturday she didnt eat as usual nor was she active. And she hasnt gone to the bathroom at all.Today now shes breathing wierd. Im pretty sure shes contipated. But the vetenerian is close today . I dont know what to do. Can someone help me ?

BELLA 12 months ago

From all I have read on this page and others you should give her some pumpkin (pure canned pumpkin) mix it with her food.

mike 12 months ago

I have a 7 weekold pitbull I started feeding him puppy formula but I noticed that he hasn't pooped and he has been throwing up what should I do

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alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

Bella, usually items are passed within 48-72 hours of ingesting them so by now it should have passed. As mentioned, the peculiar shape may be allowing stools to pass through but it may be stuck there somewhere if you are sure it did not pass. Think of the intestinal tract like a tube ''o'' and this ''c'' shaped item aligned with ''0'' allowing the stools to still pass normally. I am only making supposition as to why she is not acting sick. If it is sitting there stuck, I find it difficult for food to allow it to pass at this point.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

Mike, any chances he may have gotten into any foreign objects? Also, at 7 weeks the puppy should not be on puppy formula (milk replacement) but on a good puppy chow mushed with some water to soften it. What was the breeder feeding him? he should continue on the same food to prevent upset stomach. I think this guy needs a vet visit since he is so young.

mike 12 months ago

The puppy is the ront and the mom stopped feeding them and he won't eat any food hard or soft

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alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

Yes, sounds time to see the vet if he won't eat.

Veronica 12 months ago

I have 4 year old daschaund, he is always very active. It has been 1 day that he has not gone poop but has also started shaking. I'm assuming he is in pain. there is no vomiting and he continues to eat and drink water fine. He stopped jumping from the bed and going up as well. Is there something I can do for him? I feel bad because I don't have money to take him to the vet until Thursday. The shaking part worries me too.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 12 months ago

My article above offers a plethora of remedies for constipation have you read it? The shaking should really be checked out. You can try to put some pancake syrup on his gums to give a burst of energy in case his glucose levels are low. Hope he gets better soon!

Veronica 12 months ago

I took him to the vet and come to find out he has back problems and that is the reason for constipation :( Is so hard to see him in so much pain and not being able to do anything for him. He got some antiflammatory pills but they dont seem to help. Thanks for your advice though.

Karla 12 months ago

I have a female shih tzu(about 10 years old). She was feeling fine then a few days ago she started acting different, she eat and drinks as normal but she moves her food bowl around a lot, and she lays around more than normal. I gave her a bath and she was fine until I went to dry her off on her tummy and between her back legs. I don't know if she constipated or has an infection of some kind, I know shes in heat and she's been humping my other 2 females like crazy so I'm not sure if shes hurt herself by doing that. Could someone please give me some advise on what this could be? I would really appreciate it

Samantha 11 months ago

Hello, my 4 month old cockapoo wakes us up every morning at around 4 to go to outside and this morning he did as usual, when my boyfriend brought him out, he tried to have a bowel movement for about five minutes and starting whining and crying because he couldn't. When he came inside, he rubbed his back end all over the floor and finally a small piece of feces came out which was a bit harder than the following pile that he had which was quite soft. I'm really paranoid and I'm just wondering if after all this, I should still bring him in? Thanks so much if someone has an answer for me!!!

daphne 10 months ago

my dog is sick

James 9 months ago

My Mini Schnauzer Is Constipated...I'm Planning On Getting Canned Pumpkin For Him, I Was Wondering If I Can Only Give Him The Canned Pumpkin Only When He Is Constipated Or Can I Implement It In To His Diet?

tamsinstead 9 months ago

I'm grateful to have found this page. I have three dogs, one of which (cross greyhound/lab) has a problem exercising for the past couple of days. He usually loves a long run and is pretty nippy when it comes to rats around my house :)

But today manages just a few steps and then lies down for a while. I brought him home of course. He's 5 years old. His nose is wet and gums pink. I really can't see him 'straining' as they all run off into the jungle for a poo.

I'd changed their diet to a high quality dry one as my Ma Thai had had ataxia, which has now disappeared. There's always plenty of water around. I've just rushed off to local market and boiled up some pumpkin {cheap here} and mixed it up with his favourite, canned mackerel in tomato sauce. He woofed down the lot. So hopefully this'll do the trick. The locals always laugh if I buy 'barbecued' boiled eggs and make a sign with their two fingers as if walking slowly (egg bound :D ), so diet to do with inability to walk well?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

James, pumpkin will not hurt, some commercial dog foods indeed have pumpkin among other ingredients. Just make sure it is plain pumpkin not the one with the spices added. Asking your vet about it however is your best option as all dogs react to foods differently.

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alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

tamsinstead, I would have him seen by a vet is he lounging around and has trouble walking. best wishes

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selma14 9 months ago

I have an 8 week old shorkie who weighs 1.3 pounds

all last week after receiving her shots she had diarreah all week.

Thursday I noticed she was acting strange, very listless,would not eat anything, and didn't want to get up to do anything.

I later noticed she was having convulsions so I rushed her to the vet who said she was low in glucose and was hypoglycemic.

Since thursday my puppy does not want to eat anything, I have tried smushed up dry dog food, multiple types of canned food, Nutri-cal, and even baby food.

Im not sure what to do anymore, she hasn't made a bowel movement for 3 days, doesnt even try, and refuses to eat.

Do you have any suggestions?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

Rubbing some pancake syrup on her gums may give her a little boost of energy. You may have to force feed her with a syringe without the needle or even a turkey baster filled up with baby meat-based food liquefied with some warm water. Insert it between the outer surfaces of her molars and her cheek. Give only a few teaspoons of food every 2 to 3 hours. Follow the guidelines on how to do this in this article:

http://www.cairnrescue.com/docs/AfterTreatmentCare

Because she had diarrhea and had not eaten, it is normal for her to not have any bowel movements, since there is not much there. Once she starts eating, bowel movements should resume.

I would have her seen by a vet though. It seems like the vaccine caused her these complications and she is still not feeling well.

selma14 profile image

selma14 9 months ago

thank you !

tamsinstead 9 months ago

Thanks for your reply alexadry. All three of them lounge around! But soon as the gate's opened they're off like a shot :D He's eating very well, if I mash can of mackerel/sardines into his high protein kibble, and he drinks water. Nose still wey and gums still pink. He had a stronger pull on his lead this am, but after a while (and a poop) kept sitting down for rest breaks. And looks forward to getting home (I don't take him/them far at the moment.

I remembered he'd thrown up violently some bright green stuff, hanging from his muzzle and all, (iewww) several days ago. They'll eat anything, but if it were poisoning (not unusual here), surely he'd be better now, appetite back and all. Heart problem?

If he's the same tomorrow, I'll have to somehow get him to a vet. Can't drive (broken arm), and there're a LOT of feral dogs on route :( Ah well. Thanks again.

Virginia 9 months ago

My dog has 'limber tail' and is recovering, but is definitly constipated since this started. Is this normal? He is drinking more water than normal too. For the first few days of the limber tail I gave him Bufferin that a vet said was okay to give, and was giving those to him for about four days, with little bricks of cheese ( very small amounts). I have not given him the bufferin or cheese for the last two days, but he is having problems having a bowel movement. Any insight?

Thank you

gj 9 months ago

wow all these comments im reading... go to the vet its that simple....

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

Limber tail can be painful so that may be making your dog uncomfortable to go potty. You can try adding a bit of canned pumpkin (not the pie version with spices added) to his food. Walking him may also help get things moving,if it continues see your vet, best wishes.

Marsha76 9 months ago

I have a 6wk old pup I was giving him the smooshy can dog food so everytime he had a bm it was runny so I went n not thinking got that dog food that comes in a box individualy wrapped they look like worms the hamburger n cheese flavor and when he ate it the next day his tail is staying like a hump but tucked he straines n no poop but hell have a very very small amount tryin to come out like its almost oozin n just sits there n she is bloated is it the dog food n what should I do??

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

I hope he is better by now, but if this is still occurring I would recommend a vet visit. Also, not sure why this pup is away from mother and litter mates so young, a pup should go to a new home only once minimum 8 weeks, otherwise it will miss important social and life skills.

charlie 9 months ago

My dog is having troubles going poop. she started with diarrea an then a few days later had a hard time pooping. shes trying very hard but still cant go. any advice?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 9 months ago

Try the canned pumpkin (not the pie version with spices added just plain pumpkin) as per my article's instructions. Walk your dog a lot. If she starts vomiting, acting odd have her seen by a vet, best wishes!

LISA 8 months ago

WHERE CAN I FIND PURE PUMKIN N A CAN? GRCERY STORE ?

T.DOG 8 months ago

My dog is 9 years old and is usually a really happy dog. But last night he was just lying down and didn't move. I think he is overweight since he is pretty fat and he wasn't eating much, which is unusual for him. He drinks a little bit of water but not much at all. He does number two's sometimes, but they come out an orange colour which is weird. He shows signs of Lethargy and can barely walk. When i found him lying down, i helped him up onto his legs (carried him up) he could stand, but seemed really tired and weak. He then took a few steps to the garage door (he was in the garage) and then when he was walking back to me, he suddenly just fell and lied down. before i left him for the night, he started to eat a little and ate a chicken drumstick, including the bone.

What do you think i should do? Do you think its "his time"?

Oh and my mum doesn't want to bring him to the vet because he says its too expensive, so i would only go there as a last resort.

T.DOG 8 months ago

Oh and another thing to add to my previous comment is that when he is lying down, it seems like he is having hiccups or something like that..

Please help, i really don't know what to do :(

c dog 8 months ago

my yorkie /pom, was hit by a car , broken pelvis in 3 places , he has not pooped in 4 .5 days .I did try the pumkin , he is so picky though. I might have got him to eat a teaspoon at most. wait and see I guess. Any other suggestions? I think he might be scared to poop.

Becky.c 8 months ago

Hi my dog has just been for castration a few days ago, he's eating absolutely fine, hesitant at drinking but will take from a feeding syringe, but he doesnt seem to have any bowel movement. Do u think was because of op and will pass soon?

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alexadry Hub Author 8 months ago

Since dogs before surgery are not fed the morning of and since they are often wobbly after the anesthesia and feeling a bit ''off'' I would say it is quite normal not to be defecating the same day. I would expect though bowel movements to resume at least within 48 hours. Does he look in pain? I would give your vet a call, he may prescribe a laxative if need be and pain meds if he is uncomfortable. How old is your dog? young dogs recover quite quickly, whereas older dogs may take more time, best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Debbie 8 months ago

My Shih Tzu is eating and drinking fine, doing the normal stuff. Had her anal glands expressed about 3 weeks ago and was on antibiotics for a possible infection. However she may not be pooping, she doesn't like to be watched so may be going in the back of the garden. But if she had a blockage wouldnt she be sick or something. She has also just come off heat.

Jack Russel 8 months ago

Hi, I have a 12 year old jack russel, a few weeks ago he use to vommit in the house but had no problem going to the loo. Before he vommits, I noticed he looks unease, starts slipping his tongue like how a snake does before vommiting. Yesterday he was totally upset, didnt eat or drink water and was straining himself the whole day tryin to make number 2 with no results.

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alexadry Hub Author 8 months ago

Definitively sounds like something that needs investigated by the vet. The slipping tongue thing you see is due to nausea, before vomiting dogs tend to salivate more. I am afraid of some sort of blockage is going on, your vet may need to do x-rays, best wishes.

Jack Russel 8 months ago

Thank you for replying, what you mentioned makes sense now, helps me understand him better... if only they could talk

scooter 7 months ago

my male cairn 11 years old ate the bottom of my bodysuit with a minipad 3 days ago and the crotch also had some small metal hinges. It is all gone.he has never done that before,never eaten clothes and is a slow methodical eater.I can't imagine he did this but he did. What to do? i am monitoring him and according to me he hasn't pooped for 2 days. I hear his bowel juices rumble.he still wants food but has become more quiet and resting more.i have squeezed his tummy with no reaction.ofcourse we have a long weekend here with one day to go.i am worried and will take him to the vet tomorrow.

Any thoughts?

scooter 7 months ago

He has pooped,apparently 3 times at once and this was mostly pieces of my underwear and 3 of the metal hinges.He seems to be ok although he is more quiet than usual. Would it be ok to help him along by giving him some pumpkin?

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alexadry Hub Author 7 months ago

If you saw pieces in the poop that is a good sign, but still keep an eye on him as it may not be all. Pumpkin may help as it has fiber and bread may wrap around the items ingested helping them pass..monitor closely for signs of an obstruction, here is a helpful hub for future reference:

http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intes

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 7 months ago

If you saw pieces in the poop that is a good sign, but still keep an eye on him as it may not be all. Pumpkin may help as it has fiber and bread may wrap around the items ingested helping them pass..monitor closely for signs of an obstruction, here is a helpful hub for future reference:

http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intes

scooter 7 months ago

Thank you for your comment. it is really nice to have someone to write to.

Scooter went to the vet today and had an xray which showed no obstruction but part of the metal hinges are still in the stomach,so now we have to give him more food and more pumpkin so it will enter the bowel and come out.If not it will be an endoscopy but he reacts badly to anaestetics,so we hope this will do.

Scooter 7 months ago

Thought I hopefully can end the story.

Scooter vomited early this morning and 4-5 large pieces of material came out and also the metal hinges. I am very relieved. he had his breakfast and is fine. he is continuing to expell material via rectum but that is smaller. I hope all will be fine now.

I thank you again.

Pete 7 months ago

Hi, my parsons terrier is constipated, poops a couple of small nuggets then strains a bit later and a couple drops of liquid come out. He is 12 and I feed him Origen dog food, but I'm wondering if I should switch to senior dog food even though Jacky's/parsons are youthful longer than most dogs.

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alexadry Hub Author 7 months ago

Orijen is one of the best foods out there actually I would consider it ''the best dog food per excellence''. Because senior dogs are prone to constipation, senior dog foods are generally higher in fiber. Generally vets may suggest switching to a senior food in breeds like terriers at around 10 years old. But of course, there are variants on this. I would mention the symptoms you are seeing to your vet to rule out first other possible causes other than nutritional. Here is a guide on senior dog diets, best of wishes!

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=

Becky 7 months ago

Hi, I hope you can help me ease my mind this evening. My female dog, Ivy, is acting very odd. She is not herself at all! This morning I walked her and she did not poop, this evening she did not poop. She seems to want to go bec she does her little turns and acts as if she wants to go b squatting a bit, but nothing comes out. She seems tired, but is still eating and drinking fine. She seemed to pee more tonight during our walk and licks herself a lot. I am concerned bec I know sometimes I do catch her eating stuff outside... as much as I try to watch her, I may have to walk her with a muzzle (which, I don't like). Oh and she has also been sitting sporadically during our walks as if she gets tired.

dedric stringer 6 months ago

Just took the puppy from her mother she eats fine and pees. But she hasn't had a movement since we had her which is two days.

Laura 6 months ago

Hello,

Thanks for all this useful information. I have a 5 month old miniature poodle who seems really constipated. This morning he strained, and strained, and strained. I tried taking him for a walk but he kept stopping to strain more so we didn't get very far. I stayed outside with him for over an hour. Eventually I took him inside, and he kept straining. I fed him a couple of tablespoons of wellness canned puppy food with half a teaspoon of olive oil. He ate about half of it and eventually passed soft (but intact, not diarrhoea) stool. He's been sleeping all morning and I don't think he's better yet. He is very sensitive around the anal area as I tried to clean him off once he started going and I can tell its sensitive. Do you have any opinion on whether this might be more serious than simple constipation?

Thanks,

Laura.

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alexadry Hub Author 6 months ago

It is hard to say. Do you feed him bones, does he eat sticks, or does he have a habit of eating foreign objects? At times, these may create problems passing through. I would have a vet check his anal glands as at times these get inflamed making the area sensitive. Anyhow, since you say he is sleeping all morning and this appears to be not his usual behavior, to be safe I would have him seen by the vet, best wishes!

nichole 6 months ago

what should i do if my dog doesnt poop but she pee after a couple of hours? is she constipated? do canned pumpkin help?

Laura 6 months ago

Thank-you for your advice :)

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 6 months ago

Nichole, you can try canned pumpkin with no spices added and see if this helps.Try walking her. But if your dog is acting out of character or sick have her seen.

anna 6 months ago

My female lab/border collie cross was spayed a week ago and has been eating and drinking fine until today.

I feed her dry dog food softened with boiling water and milk.

Today she won't eat or drink. even if i give her table scraps she just holds them in her mouth for a while and then spits them out and wont eat them.

Is her diet ok in general?

As well as not eating or drinking she seems lethargic.

I have to take her back to the vets to have her stitches removed in 3 days, will that be too long to wait?

I can't give her pumpkin as she won't eat anything.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 6 months ago

Anna, if you are feeding softened kibble you are defeating the purpose of dry, crunchy food known to help keep teeth in good health. If you must feed it moistened due to her being finicky, make sure she has access to good dental chews.

Dogs are normally eager to eat, and since she is also lethargic, a vet visit is warranted. I can't say if it is too long to wait since we don't know what is going on, to play it safe, it would be a good idea to anticipate her visit.

anthony 5 months ago

So my dog woke up nd prbly ate something he wasn't suppose to he uses the bath room a lil then sits there like he's trying to push the rest out he won't eat the dry food but eats the can foodnd he threw up this morning but haven't since but hs still strains nd moping around a lol Wat should I do ?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 5 months ago

Anthony, I think your dog should see the vet if you believe he may have eaten something, there are chances he may have a bowel obstruction, you can read more here:

http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intes

Rita 5 months ago

My pug has gotten chunky and she normally is skinny also her attitude has changed, she cant get up the stairs and she hasnt poop in like 3 days, what should i do!?

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alexadry Hub Author 5 months ago

You can try to feed the plain canned pumpkin as explained above but to be honest, I would not recommend trying home remedies for the symptoms you are seeing because it could be many things. Adrenal gland problems, parasites, tumors, heart disease, heartworm infection, ascites and liver disease are just a few possible serious causes you may want to rule out with a vet.

Kela 4 months ago

Ok so I have a 4 lb 12 year old Pom. He's getting older and has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. He's taking a diuretic 2 x per day and a BP medicine 1 x per day to try to remove fluid from his heart and lungs. We found out about it in Nov and the weight came right off. He's always weighed anywhere from 4-5 lbs but lately has dropped to 3lbs and is eating less, drinking much more and still playful. Worried about the weight loss I added some canned food to his usual diet of Nutra Senior dog food. He is eating it but has a pretty big belly bulge and seems to want to go poop a lot more. I can't tell if he is able to go everytime he tries or not but am worried about the effects of the canned food and how it is effecting his little system. He's NEVER been fed canned food on a regular basis but as of late won't eat the dry without mixing the canned with it. Help!

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alexadry Hub Author 4 months ago

Kela, since your dog has heart problems I would have him seen by the vet if you are seeing a bulged belly, at times this can be due to ''ascites'' where fluid accumulates in the abdomen. There may be obviously other causes for the bulging, but since he has these medical conditions, better have him checked out. If you are adding canned food it is normal for him to need to go potty more, but I think it would be better to consult with your vet for the most proper diet. Some foods contain too much salt, especially the super market brands and this is not good for dogs with heart problems. there are vet diets specifically made for dogs with heart problems. best wishes!

Tori 4 months ago

My 5 yr old English Bulldoggie has been constipated off an on since we moved. I have noticed him straining and I trying to go often. Only little hard nuggets seem to come out. He weighs about 70lbs and is eating and drinking fine. After trying to push about 5 times each time he goes out he will vomit mucous or bile/ mucous combo. We have stopped giving him treats and called the vet he said the pumpkin (which my dog doesn't like) he said stool softners and a fleets enema. Nothing has worked, he is still getting out nuggets but nothing more. I am just worried about him. We use Biljac for his food because it dissolves good and sinks instead of floating in his stomach. He doesn't eat rawhide or any rawhide products due to his breed. I am unemployed I just want to help him without going to the vet. I am not sure what else I can do. I rub his tummy in a downward motion and let him go out often His belly still has the hourglass shape and he runs and plays still. I am just not sure why he is not defecating without straining?? Any ideas? Thanks

caren 4 months ago

hi my jack russell is acting very depressed and down and this morning she tried to poop but couldnt and she isnt eating bread or much at all and she is quite fat so please help!!!

Blue eyes 4 months ago

hi I have a pom and he is 8 years old,today I woke up seeing him laying down he throw up in his room and he waz covered with throw up so I cleaned him he tried to poo but nothing came up he keep trying and trying but still nothing now its been 5 hours and i put him outside and he keep trying and still nothing so I had to clean him again because he is covered with poo again (near his tail) so I don't know what the problem is plz help I'm scared

Gabby 4 months ago

I have a 5 yr old pit/lab. He poops normal, but then is in the position for a long time with nothing coming out. He moves around the yard/area and crouches still nothing. This has been happening for 2 days. The vet had recently given me worm meds. I forgot to give them, but started this morning. Any other suggestions? The vet is also thinking he may have thyroid issues, due to him loosing hair on his tail. Its growing back and looking good, now that the vet has me giving him Omega III. He has only been on the Omega about a week. Thanks

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 4 months ago

When dogs strain to poop and there is vomiting an intestinal blockage may be a culprit. This is likely in dog that tend to swallow items. However, if the dog has repeated diarrhea and still strains this may be ''tenesmus'' something often seen with colitis, here is a link:

http://www.vetbase.co.uk/information/colitis-expla

Other chances are irritations in the anal regions, parasites, and obviously constipation..

May be worth a vet visit in both cases if this continues, best wishes

Sidney 4 months ago

You say to put pumpkin on the food, but how often?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 4 months ago

Generally, 2 tablespoons twice daily per 10lbs body weight of canned plain pumpkin (not the pie filling with spices) will do as suggested by DVM Dr. Fiona in the reference link below:

http://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/1s3jw-dog-con

Lily 4 months ago

I have a 5 month old mini schnauzer and she is having bowel movements that are soft. When she goes out she will have her bowel movement but then tries to go several more times and nothing comes out. I have noticed a little blood in her stools. I also noticed she will eat sticks, acorns and such and wondered if this is the cause. What should I do...or how concerned should I be with running her to a vet?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 4 months ago

Lily, a vet visit would be important in this case, as there can be several conditions causing this. In colitis, for instance, the dog may have repeated soft/diarrhea and then keeps on feeling the need to evacuate, a condition known as ''tenesmus''. However, bloody stools may indicate several conditions and since she eats sticks, this can create trouble as parts pass through, or worse, fail to pass through. Here are two helpful hubs; best wishes!

http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intes

http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Causes-of-blood-i

marsha 3 months ago

my little shi szu trembles whenever i try to as much as even touch her and i can not pick her up she is in so much pain this happend once before for a couple days and then went away she is eating and drinking some but i haven't seen her have any bowel move,ent what could this be

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 months ago

Could be an intestinal blockage or constipation or some other internal problem that may need addressed by a vet. Since she is in so much pain, please take her to your vet, best wishes

jon 3 months ago

hi. you are very kind for all this advice, thankyou.

my prob is our cattle dog has been struggling to go for a couple days now.. this has happened before but she comes good. but not this time. she does not whine or anything, even when i press hard on stomach. i inserted finger with oil, felt nothing. she didnt mind. if i squeeze her belly it feels like a tube of solid. after i do this she trys to go but cant. it is 3 days since noticing. she only stopped eating last night but is still drinking water.how long do you give her before going to vet?

appreciate any and all help.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 months ago

Did you already try plain canned pumpkin? When a dog stops eating, this is a time to see the vet. You say his belly is also hard. Your vet may do x-rays and prescribe you something to help him out He may not look in pain but he sure must be in discomfort and feeling ill not to eat, best wishes!

Kris 3 months ago

My dog just got back from the vet a few days ago, he had Pancreatitis and had to stay over night with an iv in him, and didnt eat for about a day and a half after we brought him in. We took him home and he was fine. I did noticed that he hasn't had a bowel movement in at least 2-3 days now. He is still eating food and drinking water. And today i noticed that his lower stomach was a little hard. I thought it might be constipation or a blockage, but he had xrays and an ultrasound ( not sure if they were looking for a blockage, so im not sure if that guarantees he doesnt have one.) What would you recommend?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 months ago

If he had pancreatitis he very likely was vomiting a lot which left him on an empty stomach for quite some time. If he just started eating today or yesterday it could be there is not enough food yet to produce a bowel movement. Some pets when they are recovering and stay in the hospital get stressed and this may also be a contributing factor. I would call the vet and ask his/her opinion since they know best what his treatment entailed. If he is active and alert this is a good sign but if the hard part concerns you definitively let them know.. Here is an article about pancreatitis:

Nicole 3 months ago

I have a 6 year old cockapooh and for the past few months she has been having pooh problems every week or so. She sits with her feet all together and she shakes. She has never threw up but when she tries to pooh nothing comes out. It usally passes after a few hours but it has been happening more and more, what should I do? I take her for walks when she is sick and it helps a bit, we can not afford a vet vist. Please help

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 months ago

She really should be checked out by the vet if this is a recurring problem, have you tried plain pumpkin?

Nicole 3 months ago

No I haven't but I will and we can not afford a vet trip

kristen 2 months ago

I have two puppys and out of the blue tonight they both started acting funny tucking there tails and licking there butts I don't know what to do.... lab mix.... same food they have been feed the hole time.

ChiChiPitts88 profile image

ChiChiPitts88 2 months ago

OMG I tried everything for my dog’s constipation – pumpkin, olive oil, etc and the only thing that finally relieved it was changing his food. My vet recommended getting him off grains and onto a food called Alpha with a prebiotic supplement in it – which really seemed to get his bowels moving again – YAY! It makes sense – the same thing that helps people helps dogs too.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 months ago

Thank you for sharing, it may help others dealing with dog constipation.

Wally Vandervelden 2 months ago

I have eight cats and one very large year old Labrador named Tiffany. She enjoys the taste of cat food and recently I discovered that she truly loves to eat cat feces. It tastes just like cat food coming out the other end. It is a delicacy to her so rather than cleaning 8 separate litter boxes every week I just let the dog eat all the catshit she wants. She loves me for it. She jumps up on the bed when she's finished and licks my face with delight. My psychiatrist stopped seeing me and my husband thinks my clock runs backwards. Does anyone find this behavior odd?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 months ago

Your post sounds like a troll. Just as an FYI for anyone who allows their dogs to eat cat food, cat vomit or cat poop in general, it is too rich in protein for dogs and there are too many calories. This means a dog can get easily fat on it which predisposes to other disorders and conditions. Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs. You should invest in covered litter boxes or make a cat door so your dog does not have access to the litter boxes.

kym 2 months ago

Hya. my dog has just had surgury on her leg, thursday just gone. she had a poo thursday night but hasent been since. should i be worried ????

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 months ago

Not overly worried, since when dogs have surgery they are often on an empty stomach for some time (you had to fast him from the night prior to surgery I am sure!). Also, did your vet prescribe pain meds? if he is in pain he may not feel like going out to potty.

Kenny 7 weeks ago

What do I do if my dog is constipated but whenever he tries to poop it gets stuck on his butt.Shoud I wipe it off or let him get it off naturally.

Kenny 7 weeks ago

And how do I stop the constipation

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 7 weeks ago

Let him finish up pooping but then clean him up or this may give him a hard time next time he needs to poop, it may help to trim the hair around the bum to prevent poop from tangling there. My article above has tips for constipated dogs, best wishes!

Jen 7 weeks ago

My 9 week old Min Pin has been eating, but STRAINS to eliminate. They are wide, and dry... so I'm wondering if that's the issue? We've been told that this breed has digestion problems, but I'm still going to get pumpkin. Anything else I should add to his diet so they aren't as dry and wide?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 7 weeks ago

Pumpkin may do the job, but if you want to do more you can consult with your vet for a high-fiber diet or try some other high-fiber food as in the article below:

http://www.ehow.com/facts_5776349_high-fiber-foods

nicole 5 weeks ago

hello my name is Nicole i have a 3-4 year Chihuahua and she always poops fine then i took her out this morning to go potty and she was just trying but it did not look like she went we gave her a very little peanut butter last night and i don't know if this could be the cause of her problem she dont seem like she is in pain how long should i wait to see if she needs to go to the vet she still eats etc etc but i guess im asking how many more times of her not being able to poop should i do something its was only this one time but im such a good dog owner i worry about every thing lol

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 5 weeks ago

If she does not look uncomfortable or acts sick it could be ok to monitor her for the rest of the day, try to walk her, make sure she eats and offer some plain pumpkin. If you are concerned though it does not hurt to see the vet, or give a call. Best wishes!

Jen 4 weeks ago

Hey, my 8 month old Lhasa apso recently had treatment for diahhrea, and was given paste that'd firm up his stools, he was seen 3 days ago. Since then he's only pooped once and it hurt him alot.

He's not pooped at all today. So we've stopped giving him the paste.

Do you think the pumpkin would be ideal in this case?

Only I don't want to fork out more cash for him to be given a prescribed stool softener lol.

Many thanks.

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 4 weeks ago

Sometimes medications for dog diarrhea lead to the opposite problem, you can try plain pumpkin to treat dog constipation but your dog may need something more from your vet if your dog is in pain and uncomfortable, best wishes!

mark 3 weeks ago

My dog was constipated and I used plain pumpkin and worked wonders. I was wondering if it is OK to feed every day? my dog is getting old and his intestines are slowing down per the vet's diagnosis

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 3 weeks ago

It is best to ask your vet about this but I know several dog owners who regularly add it to their dog's diet.

miranda 3 weeks ago

I am one dog owner that has been adding pumpkin to my dog's diet for several months know. He gets constipated and it seems to help. I also give it to my other dog that gets his anal glands expressed and has not needed it because the pumpkin also firms up the stool. It is important to only use plain pumpkin, not the one for making pies. Read the label and make sure there are no spices added.

Shawna 2 weeks ago

Hi, My 8 month old Bichpoo Kaylee has latley been having very few poohs. Usually she has one in the early morning, sometimes one at lunch time andlways one before bed. In the past 3 maybe 4 days she has only been poohing maybe once a day. She dosn't struggle or try in the morning or at lunch. She will usually do it in the evening without a problem and it is a normal size. Also yesterday she threw up a white substance. Also yesterday I had given her a bone. Which I think she threw up. I took it away but still nothing has changed except the puking. She has also been peeing a little less too. She hasnt started any new foods or stopped eating her old food. Everything is normal but I don't know about her routine... is this normal? Should I try giving her pumkin?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 2 weeks ago

If she is vomiting, there is less food in her stomach and therefore less stools. You should investigate the vomiting though if it continues since you gave a bone, there are chances there may be a partial obstruction.Sometimes bones cause stools to be dry and hard. Doesn't hurt to try the pumpkin but if vomiting continues see your vet, here is an article about intestinal blockages in dogs http://alexadry.hubpages.com/hub/Symptoms-of-intes

Cleo999 13 days ago

My male had TPLO surgery yesterday and he has not gone potty, yet, I was wondering it if could be he is suffering from constipation. I take him out and he just sniffs and wants to go back inside. He is on pain meds so I do not think he is in a lot of pain. He does not strain but does not seem like he wants to even try to go. I normally walk him but obviously ca't do that much know. Any ideas?

alexadry profile image

alexadry Hub Author 12 days ago

The night prior to the surgery and the morning after your vet reminded you likely NPO. Add to that that your dog spent a day at the vet not eating, and upon coming home, many vets recommend NPO for a few hours and small meals to avoid an upset stomach. He may still have a bit of pain and very likely feels uncomfortable on his legs, keep an eye on him and possibly feed some pumpkin. If he is still not going consult with your vet as he may prescribe you something to help him out. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Summer 12 days ago

I have a 6yr old chihuahua female. She went blind in one week when she was 4,in sep 2011, she was diagnosed with nerve damage on her right side, which caused her to turn right circles. The vet prescribed her Prednisone 5mg, it helped her not to spin so much and helped her walk straight sometimes. A couple of days ago, maybe 5, she started not eating her hard dog food and started spinning circles alot more. My husband had prednisone prescribed to him a few mths ago (when he got sick) it was 20mg. We choped his into 5mg tablets and started giving them to her, and feeding her hot dogs (only soft thing we had at the time).Yesterday, we was able to pick her up some soft dog food. For the past five nights she's been waking us up around 2am whinning and wanting to get out the bed and sometimes jumping off the bed, we've been able to catch her most of the time :( . She sometimes has accidents in the house, expecially if we're gone all day. And, she hasn't been latley. Neither, one of us has been paying attention to she if shes pooped. This morning it worried us bad because she was whinning and scratching and trying to get off the bed even faster. We let her down she was spinning circles and running into the wall more than ever and whinning. We brought her outside to pottie she peed really fast and started straning to poop, she probably tried to poop for about 10mins. We got her back inside, watched her, she couldn't get comfortable and would kinda just lay where ever. Her belly was tight tight. She drank some water and like 15mins later peed but that was it. I started looking on the internet around 3 this morning for releief for her, while my husband went to wal mart. I gave her some milk and it didnt do anything. My husband got back, all wal mart had was childrens pedia-lax. We broke it up into a very small piece hoping it would work, put her some soft dog food down so she would eat the pill. She's been eating and drinking water just fine. We called the vet told him what was going on @5am and are meeting him at 8. She just fell asleep. What do you think is going on with my baby girl??? I'm also worried she's been not able to poop for about 5 or 4 days :( and I feel terraible :((((

Jocelyne 4 hours ago

My dog sits there and cries but cant seem to poop. i cant afford to take him to the vet. what should i do? Some people tell me to give him milk , is that a good idea?

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