Constipation in Dogs 2025: Signs, Causes & Home Remedies 🐶✨

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Has your dog gone more than a day without pooping? Are they straining, squatting repeatedly, or passing hard stools? Constipation in dogs is common—and often preventable with a few simple changes.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. Here’s how to spot constipation, what causes it, and when you can treat it at home versus when to call your vet.

🚩 Signs Your Dog May Be Constipated

• Straining to poop with little or no results
• Hard, dry, pellet-like stools
• Squatting frequently without producing feces
• Whining, restlessness, or abdominal discomfort
• Reduced appetite or vomiting in severe cases

🔍 Common Causes of Dog Constipation

• Dehydration (not enough water intake)
• Low-fiber or overly processed diets
• Ingesting hair, bones, grass, or foreign material
• Lack of exercise or movement (especially in older dogs)
• Painful conditions like arthritis or back issues
• Medications (e.g., opioids, antihistamines)
• Blocked anal glands or prostate enlargement

✅ What You Can Do at Home

1. Encourage Hydration

• Add water to dry food or switch to wet food
• Use a pet fountain to increase water intake

2. Add Safe Fiber

• Canned pumpkin (1–4 tablespoons depending on size)
• Metamucil (psyllium husk) – ask your vet for the correct dose
• Cooked green beans or oats

3. Gentle Exercise

• Daily walks and light activity stimulate bowel movements

4. Laxatives or Stool Softeners

• Only use vet-approved options like lactulose or Miralax
• Never use human laxatives without consulting your vet

❌ When NOT to Treat at Home

• More than 2 days without a bowel movement
• Signs of pain, vomiting, or bloated abdomen
• Dog strains to poop but passes nothing
• Presence of blood or mucus in stool

👨⚕️ How Vets Treat Constipation

• Manual removal of impacted stool (under sedation if needed)
• Enemas (safe solutions only—NEVER use human enemas)
• Hydration therapy (subcutaneous or IV fluids)
• Diagnosis of underlying conditions like spinal issues or gland problems

🛠️ Constipation Prevention Tips

• Feed a high-fiber, balanced diet
• Keep your dog active with daily walks and play
• Ensure constant access to clean water
• Groom long-haired dogs regularly to reduce hair ingestion
• Avoid giving cooked bones or excessive treats

🔗 Helpful Tools from Ask A Vet

• Snuffle Ball – Encourages movement and prevents boredom-related issues
• Ask A Vet – Track bowel movements, ask about fiber dosing, or get treatment advice fast

📋 Summary Excerpt

Constipation in dogs is uncomfortable and often preventable. A vet explains how to spot the signs early, treat safely, and know when it’s time to call your clinic.

❓ FAQs

• Q: Can I give my dog human laxatives?
  A: No. Some are toxic or too harsh. Only use vet-approved products like Miralax or lactulose under guidance.
• Q: How long is too long without pooping?
  A: 24–48 hours is a concern. Beyond 48 hours, see your vet.
• Q: Is canned pumpkin safe?
  A: Yes, in moderation. It’s a great fiber source—just don’t use pumpkin pie mix with added sugar or spices.