How to Help a Constipated Dog

We often take our pet’s normal bodily functions for granted - until they aren’t normal. When a dog can’t poop, they will of course be uncomfortable, maybe even in pain. If your dog is not able to poop, it is important to act quickly to help them feel better!

1. What is constipation in dogs?

When dogs eat, their stomach breaks down the food into smaller pieces. Then, their intestines help absorb the nutrients and vitamins their body needs to keep them healthy. When dogs poop, they are getting rid of waste that their bodies don’t need anymore.

If a dog is constipated, it means that they are not able to poop, and there are many different reasons they may be having trouble.

2. What will I notice if my dog is constipated?

For many dog parents, they have a yard for their dog to explore and roam. If your dog normally takes care of business in the yard, and not on a walk, you may not realize they are having trouble going poop, unless you notice other symptoms. Things you may notice if your dog is constipated are:

1. Not pooping often
2. Bloating
3. Gas
4. Hard or dry looking poop
5. Visibly straining or looking like your dog is in pain when trying to poop
6. Not being hungry or seeming less active

3. Why is my dog constipated?

All joking aside, constipation is often a painful and uncomfortable problem and figuring out a possible cause helps to work on helping to make things move normally. There are many different possible things that could a dog’s digestive system to not empty as it should. The most common causes are related to not drinking enough water and not eating foods that digest right.

Dogs also need to get enough exercise to have good poop habits. Older dogs might have issues with constipation more often than when they were younger. . In addition to the normal causes which can be helped with changes to habits, there are also health problems or issues with the anal gland that cause constipation.

If your dog is on medicine or has had a recent surgery, that may cause them trouble pooping too. If you recently adopted a new furry friend, moved to a new home, or introduced any other life change or stressful situation, the stress can cause constipation too.

If your dog ever seems to be unusually tired or in a lot of pain, it is time to get them checked out to be sure there is not a more serious problem than what food and exercise may fix.

4. Will more exercise help my constipated dog?

Increasing exercise is a great way to help your constipated dog! Like all creatures, dogs need to move their bodies to keep things working properly. Not moving enough is why dogs who have had surgery or are in their golden years suffer from not pooping enough more than others.

If your dog is not naturally active enough, play with them! Toss a ball or a frisbee or run around with them in the yard! If you don’t have the space for open play at home, take your pup for a walk or hike. Many dogs love to go to the local lake for a swim too.

Dogs are the perfect companion to help their pawrents moving too!

If your dog isn’t enjoying activity due to pain, BestLife4Pets has Walk-Easy Hip & Joint Pain Relief in Regular and Extra Strength to target the root cause of joint pain and stiffness. Unlike remedies that simply mask symptoms, it provides lasting relief from arthritis, limping, torn ligaments, and leg sprains. It improves mobility, enhances flexibility, and supports your pet’s overall well-being so they can keep up with the family—whether that means climbing stairs, playing fetch, or simply curling up comfortably.

5. How do I change eating habits to help my constipated dog?

What our dogs are eating and drinking is important for their whole health and wellbeing, but especially for their pooping habits! Be sure your dog has plenty of access to fresh clean water and that they are drinking enough water.

Add foods that have natural fiber like sweet potato or pumpkin to your dog’s meals. This is great for their overall health and helps them to poop regularly also. Dry dog food is usually heavily processed and can cause constipation, especially in older dogs.

Although it is important to ensure your dog is getting all of the needed nutrition in their diet, there are many human foods in addition to sweet potato or pumpkin that are tasty to them and beneficial. We highlight these in our blog, What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat? 

Adding in a gentle, plant-based remedy that helps your dog pass their poop naturally, without straining or discomfort will help too. BestLife4Pets Dog Laxative & Constipation Relief softens hard poop and reduces stomach pain, making pooping easier while helping to have a healthy digestive system.

Be encouraged, there are ways to help your dog to have a healthier digestive flow! With a few slight changes to diet and lifestyle, your pup can feel better and stay regular!