What to do if your dog has constipation?

There are many reasons for dog constipation, such as foreign objects like bones and hair blocking the intestines, lack of exercise, insufficient water intake, and possibly due to rectal polyps, tumors, or anal sacculitis. If the constipation is caused by insufficient exercise and water intake, you can usually solve it by increasing your dog's exercise and water intake. For other causes, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

The first consideration for dog constipation is insufficient exercise or water intake. Insufficient exercise leads to constipation because the dog's lack of movement causes slow intestinal peristalsis, thereby disrupting the dog's normal bowel habits. This can usually be improved by increasing the dog's exercise moderately, such as taking the dog out to play. Meanwhile, insufficient water intake causes constipation because the stool becomes hard and difficult to pass through the intestines. It is recommended to appropriately increase the dog's water intake, and if the dog doesn't like to drink water, you can increase the feeding amount of wet food.

Secondly, consider foreign objects like bones and hair blocking the intestines. This occurs when foreign objects and feces become entangled, making it difficult to pass through the intestines. It is recommended to take oral laxatives to lubricate the intestines and, if necessary, use enemas or other treatments. If a bone is found stuck in the intestine, surgery may be required to remove it.

Finally, rectal lesions such as rectal polyps and rectal tumors may also cause constipation. It is advised to bring your dog to a pet hospital for relevant checks and treatments.

Dog constipation usually presents with attempts to defecate, but the stool may not be passed. In the early stages, it does not affect the dog's spirit or appetite. However, if the symptoms do not improve for a long time, the dog may develop loss of appetite or even refuse to eat.