Constipation in Dogs

Generally, when we talk about constipation, we mean the absence of a bowel movement. But irregular stools, or ones passed with clear difficulty, are also considered constipation.

Adult dogs usually defecate, on average, between one and three times a day. Not going one day doesn't necessarily mean there's an underlying condition. But if the situation drags on, we could be looking at a case of constipation. Let's go over its causes and solutions.

Understanding a Dog's Gastrointestinal Physiology

First, keep in mind that a healthy adult dog will have 1-3 bowel movements a day. In puppies, this number tends to be higher, while in older dogs it can drop. This results from reduced intestinal motility, among other factors.

In any case, the standard to go by should be each dog's own habits, since how many times a dog defecates varies depending on its diet and circumstances. So, if a dog always defecates twice a day, there's nothing to worry about if it skips a day, as long as its stools are normal and pass without difficulty.

But if several days go by without a bowel movement, we notice straining to defecate, or other symptoms appear, such as bleeding, we're talking about constipation. A diet with enough fiber, proper hydration, and exercise are the pillars of good digestive function.

Spotting Constipation in a Dog

Straining while defecating is one of the most visible symptoms of constipation. Stool retained in the colon for several days ends up drying out and hardening. This makes it harder for the dog to pass it. The problem is that this straining is also a sign of other conditions, such as colitis or anorectal obstructions.

So, if we suspect our dog is constipated, the first thing to do is consult the vet. If we use a home remedy to try to make the dog defecate, thinking it's constipated, when the straining actually has another cause, we'll only delay the diagnosis and make the problem worse.

Causes of Constipation in Dogs

Although any dog can experience an episode of constipation, some factors affect proper intestinal transit and, as a result, increase the risk of constipation. These are the main ones:

• Inadequate diet, lacking sufficient fiber.
• Reduced water intake. Dehydrated stool is harder to pass.
• A sedentary lifestyle.
• Swallowing non-digestible materials such as hair, grass, paper, fabric, or bones. Once mixed with digestive contents, these end up forming hardened masses.
• Some medications list constipation among their side effects.
• Conditions such as hypothyroidism are a cause of chronic constipation.
• Psychological factors also affect defecation. Various situations can make a dog hold in the urge to go, such as being home alone for long periods, being hospitalized, traveling, or being left at a boarding facility.
• Finally, age favors constipation by reducing intestinal motility.

Solutions for Constipation in Dogs

First, if one or more of these constipation-favoring factors are detected in the dog, they need to be corrected. For mild cases of constipation, reviewing the diet and increasing water intake and exercise may be enough. For dogs used to eating kibble, it can be offered soaked in water.

This measure can become essential for older dogs that won't accept a different diet. Of course, if the dog tends to eat foreign substances, we need to prevent it from accessing them and offer alternatives instead, such as toys, recreational bones, or dog treats.

When the problem has a psychological cause, the solution will depend on the underlying reason. In these cases, a vet specialized in canine behavior or an ethologist can help. Generally, dogs that hold in the urge to defecate at home need to be given more chances to go outside. The vet can consider using laxatives.

Laxatives for Dogs?

Dogs can use laxatives, but only if prescribed by the vet. Generally, what these drugs do is concentrate water in the intestine, softening the stool so it can be passed. Some also stimulate intestinal movement. They're useful for constipation, but if misused, they could be harmful.

Keep in mind that a dog's difficulty defecating could have another cause, there could be a contraindication for their use, or the amount used could be excessive. That's why it's important not to medicate on our own. At most, for an otherwise healthy adult that hasn't defecated or is struggling to for 1-2 days, we can give it olive oil, milk, or canned wet food.

Amounts vary depending on size. This option should only be considered if the dog shows no other symptoms and the constipation doesn't last more than 2-3 days. Otherwise, we need to call the vet. Mineral oil is often used as a laxative, but its frequent use isn't advised, since it interferes with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Preventing Constipation in Dogs

Given the factors that increase the risk of a dog developing constipation, it's possible to get ahead of it. To do this, it's recommended to follow a series of measures, especially important for older dogs or those that have already had an episode of constipation. These are:

• Give it a quality diet with enough fiber. A specific diet may be needed for older dogs or those prone to constipation. Adding 1-5 tablespoons of whole wheat bran is a good way to add fiber.
• Make sure your dog drinks enough water, or if not, give it wet food.
• Give it opportunities to exercise. If it's an older dog, encourage physical activity.

Bibliography Carlson and Giffin. 2002. Manual práctico de veterinaria canina. Madrid. Editorial el Drac.