Canine Constipation Symptoms

Canine constipation presents with symptoms such as difficulty defecating, dry and hard stool, loss of appetite, red and swollen anus, and even prolapse of the rectum. Palpating the dog's abdomen, you can feel dry, hardened fecal masses or strip-like colic. During auscultation, the intestinal sounds become weakened. Constipated feces are often stiff and blocky, and may contain mucus or even fresh blood. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, it is essential to promptly adopt treatment measures to help the dog regain normal bowel movements.

1. Difficulty Defecating

After constipation, a dog will frequently assume a defecating position, passing small amounts of liquid mixed with blood or mucus, and constantly looking back at its abdomen. Severe constipation can cause abdominal pain, howling, abdominal distension, vomiting, decreased intestinal sounds, dehydration, increased respiratory rate, and even prolapse.

1. Dry and Hard Stool

After experiencing constipation, examining the dog's abdomen will reveal dry, hard feces. By wearing gloves and inserting a finger into the anus, you can easily feel the hardened feces. Pressing on the feces will cause the dog to show signs of pain, becoming sensitive and restless.

1. Loss of Appetite

Dogs experience gastrointestinal discomfort due to the buildup of feces in the rectum, leading to a loss of appetite or even complete loss of interest in food.

1. Red and Swollen Anus

Constipated dogs continuously strain, even rubbing their hindquarters, causing the anus to become red and swollen. In severe cases, the prolapse of the rectum may even occur.