Just like people, dogs can sometimes have trouble going to the bathroom. Occasional constipation isn’t unusual, but if it lasts too long, it can become painful or even dangerous. Understanding the causes, signs, and safe remedies can help you get your pup’s digestion back on track quickly.
Understanding Dog Constipation
Dog constipation occurs when a dog has infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often struggling to pass hard or dry stool. This happens when the colon absorbs too much water from the waste, leaving it compacted and difficult to eliminate.
Constipation is one of the most common digestive issues in dogs. While it’s usually mild and temporary, it can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem or lead to discomfort if left untreated. That’s why it’s important for dog owners to recognize the early signs of constipation and know when it’s time to seek veterinary help.
Dog Constipation Symptoms
When a dog is constipated, the signs can range from mild to severe. Mild cases are often short-lived and may improve with simple home care, while more severe symptoms can signal an underlying issue that requires veterinary attention.
Mild symptoms:
Straining or difficulty passing stool
Reduced frequency
Mild discomfort
Small, dry, pellet-like stool
Severe symptoms:
Crying out
Lethargy
Bloated abdomen
Vomiting
Lack of appetite
No bowel movement for 48-72 hours
If your dog shows any of the severe symptoms above, it’s best to contact your veterinarian promptly. Persistent constipation can sometimes indicate an intestinal blockage or other medical condition that needs professional care.
When Symptoms Imitate Other Concerns
Constipation in dogs can sometimes be mistaken for other health issues. Conditions such as anal gland impaction or urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause similar symptoms — including lethargy, crying, straining, or reluctance to defecate, and a reduced appetite. Because these problems often overlap in how they appear, they’re frequently confused with constipation and vice versa.
To help rule out anal gland impaction, make sure your dog’s anal glands are routinely checked and expressed by your veterinarian or a qualified groomer. Regular maintenance not only prevents discomfort but can also help you distinguish between simple constipation and other underlying conditions.
Common Causes of Constipation in Dogs
Cause Type | Examples / Details |
Dietary | Low fiber diet, sudden dietary changes, dehydration |
Lifestyle | Low activity, stress, aging |
Medical | Medications (opioids), surgeries, enlarged prostate, anal gland impaction, neurological/orthopedic problems |
Environmental/Behavioral | Ingesting foreign objects (bones, toys, fabric, grass) |
Although constipation may seem like a simple problem, it can stem from many different causes. Fortunately, most are mild and can be managed at home with the right care. Still, constipation should never be ignored — persistent or recurring issues may lead to more serious complications or point to an underlying health condition.
Dietary Causes
Just like in humans, a dog’s diet plays a major role in digestive health.
A diet low in fiber can make it difficult for your dog to pass stool, as fiber helps keep bowel movements soft and regular. Sudden dietary changes — such as switching dog food brands or transitioning to a new vet-recommended formula — can also temporarily upset digestion and cause constipation as the gut adjusts.
Dehydration is another common cause. When your dog doesn’t get enough water, the colon absorbs too much moisture from the stool, leaving it dry, hard, and painful to pass. Ensuring your dog always has access to clean, fresh water can go a long way in preventing this issue.
Lifestyle Causes
A dog’s activity level has a big impact on their digestive health. When your dog is active, their internal organs — including the digestive system — function more efficiently. However, when exercise is limited or your dog spends long periods resting, digestion can slow down, leading to hard stools and constipation.
Stress is another factor. When a dog experiences ongoing stress or anxiety, hormonal changes can affect how the digestive system works. Stressed dogs may also eat or drink less than usual, which can further contribute to constipation and other digestive issues.
Finally, aging can play a role. As dogs grow older, their metabolism and organ function naturally slow down. Combined with reduced mobility and possible underlying health issues, this can make constipation more common in senior dogs.
Medical Causes
Certain medical conditions and treatments can also lead to constipation in dogs. Some medications and surgeries may slow down the digestive process as a side effect. For example, pain medications, especially opioids, often reduce intestinal motility. When the intestines move more slowly, the colon absorbs extra water from the stool, making it dry and difficult to pass. Your veterinarian will usually inform you if a prescribed medication carries this risk and can recommend safe ways to prevent or manage it.
Other health issues can also interfere with normal bowel movements. An enlarged prostate, anal gland impaction, and various orthopedic or neurological problems may all contribute to constipation. Although the digestive and nervous systems might seem unrelated, they’re closely connected. If the brain’s signals that tell the colon to contract are disrupted — such as by nerve damage or spinal problems — stool movement can slow down or stop entirely.
Environmental or Behavioral Causes
Dogs are naturally curious and often explore the world with their mouths — but this curiosity can sometimes lead to trouble. Ingesting inedible items such as bones, bits of chew toys, grass, fabric, or even couch stuffing is a common cause of constipation.
When these objects are swallowed, the digestive system can’t break them down. Instead, they may get stuck in the intestines, creating partial or complete blockages. If these materials reach the colon, they can interfere with the normal passage of stool or even bind with feces, making it extremely difficult — and sometimes impossible — for your dog to defecate.
If you suspect your dog has swallowed something they shouldn’t have, it’s best to contact your veterinarian right away. Prompt attention can prevent serious complications like intestinal obstruction, which may require medical or surgical intervention.
How to Help a Constipated Dog at Home
Remedy | Details / Dosage | Notes |
Pumpkin puree | 1 tsp/tbsp (depending on the size) per meal | Avoid pumpkin pie filling |
Leafy greens | Small amounts gradually | Boost fiber intake |
Probiotics | Vet-recommended powders/supplements | Supports digestive health |
Water intake | Fresh water always available | Wet food can help hydrate |
Exercise | Short walks, light play | Stimulates digestion |
Comfort & relaxation | Soft bed, quiet space, gentle massage | Stop massage if painful |
In many cases, constipation in dogs can be managed safely at home. If your dog is experiencing mild symptoms, there are several methods you can try to help get their digestive system moving again.
Pumpkin Puree and Leafy Greens
Pumpkin puree is a natural and tasty way to relieve constipation. You can use plain canned pumpkin puree, but avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains sugar and spices that can upset your dog’s sensitive stomach.
Small dogs: 1 teaspoon per meal
Large dogs: 1 tablespoon per meal
(Amounts based on recommendations from PetMD)
Adding leafy greens like spinach can also boost fiber intake, which helps move stool through the digestive tract. Introduce greens gradually and in small amounts to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.
Probiotic Supplements
Probiotics can support both the treatment and prevention of mild constipation by adding beneficial bacteria to your dog’s digestive system. Your veterinarian can recommend veterinarian-grade probiotic powders or supplements that are safe and effective for your dog.
Increased water intake
Because constipation often results from a lack of water in the stool, increasing your dog’s hydration is essential. Make sure fresh water is always easily accessible. Offering wet dog food can also help, as it contains more moisture than dry kibble and can aid in softening stool.
Exercise
Regular movement stimulates digestion. For a constipated puppy, a short walk or gentle play session can help get the digestive system moving again. Even a 15-minute backyard game of fetch or light activity can encourage the colon to function properly.
Comfort and Relaxation
Constipation can be uncomfortable or stressful for your dog, so providing a calm and cozy environment is important. Offer extra blankets, a soft bed, and a quiet space to rest. A gentle abdominal massage can sometimes help, but always stop if your dog shows signs of pain or discomfort.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your dog hasn’t had a successful bowel movement in 48–72 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this could signal a medical emergency. In addition, seek veterinary care if you notice any of the following symptoms:
Straining, crying, or obvious discomfort while trying to defecate
No stool or only small, hard, dry pellets
Blood, mucus, or unusual discharge around the stool
Vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy
A bloated or painful abdomen when touched
Repeated squatting or scooting without results
Weakness, collapse, or signs of distress
A history of chronic constipation or underlying medical issues (e.g., kidney disease, enlarged prostate, spinal problems)
Prompt veterinary attention can prevent serious complications and ensure your dog receives appropriate care.
Dog Constipation Treatment
Professional Diagnosis
When you bring your dog to the veterinarian for suspected constipation, the vet will begin with a physical examination to assess their overall health and digestive system. Depending on the situation, they may also perform a rectal exam, x-rays, or blood tests to identify underlying causes or rule out other conditions.
Veterinary Treatments
Once constipation is confirmed, your veterinarian will recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on severity and underlying causes. Treatment options may include:
Enemas administered in the clinic
Vet-prescribed laxatives or stool softeners
Specialized diets to support healthy digestion
Medication to address underlying health issues
Manual stool removal or, in severe cases, surgery
Veterinary care ensures that constipation is treated safely and effectively, particularly in cases where home remedies alone are insufficient.
Takeaway
Constipation in dogs is a common but uncomfortable problem. In many cases, it can be resolved at home with gentle remedies such as adding fiber to the diet, increasing water intake, encouraging exercise, and providing comfort and relaxation. Probiotics and short-term dietary adjustments can also support healthy digestion and prevent future issues.
However, not all cases are mild. If your dog hasn’t had a bowel movement for 48–72 hours, shows signs of pain, vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Persistent or severe constipation may indicate an underlying health problem that requires professional diagnosis and treatment.
By monitoring your dog’s digestive health, providing a balanced diet, keeping them hydrated and active, and seeking timely veterinary support when needed, you can help ensure your dog stays comfortable, healthy, and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs get constipated?
Yes, dogs can suffer from constipation just like humans. It is a common digestive issue that can range from mild to severe.
How to make a constipated dog poop quickly?
A combination of temporary dietary adjustments (like adding fiber or pumpkin puree) and gentle exercise can help stimulate bowel movements. Always monitor your dog’s symptoms and avoid sudden drastic changes in diet.
My dog hasn’t pooped in 2 days. How can I help?
Ensure your dog stays comfortable, has access to plenty of fresh water, and gets light exercise. Keep an eye out for signs of distress such as vomiting, bloating, or lethargy — these could indicate a more serious issue requiring veterinary attention.
Can dogs have constipation due to the change in weather?
Yes, seasonal changes, especially hot weather, can sometimes contribute to constipation. Dehydration during high temperatures is a common factor.
Will the vet prescribe a dog laxative for constipation?
A vet may recommend a laxative or stool softener, but only after a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause and the safest treatment.
Do carrots help with dog constipation?
Yes, carrots are high in , which can support healthy digestion and help relieve mild constipation when fed in moderation.
How can you prevent your puppy from getting constipated?
Prevent constipation by providing a high-fiber diet, ensuring your puppy stays well-hydrated, and encouraging regular exercise. Routine care and monitoring of bowel habits can help catch issues early.
Reference List:
