Constipation is characterized by the body's difficulty or inability to pass stool. In dogs, we observe symptoms such as the constant effort to defecate without results, harder, smaller and darker stools, whining when trying to evacuate, inflammation of the abdomen, loss of appetite and even vomiting. When our dog has constipation, the first thing we should do is try to find out the cause that may be causing this condition to avoid it. In parallel, we will apply a series of natural remedies that will help us reverse the situation and restore the animal's intestinal flora. To do this, in this article on our site we share the most effective home remedies for constipation in dogs. Of course, if the problem continues, it will be essential to go to the vet as soon as possible.
Causes of constipation in dogs
Constipation occurs in dogs when its digestive tract is obstructed to a greater or lesser degree and, therefore, it cannot evacuate correctly. This obstruction can be caused by different reasons, the following being the most common:
- Inadequate or unbalanced diet.
- Lack of exercise.
- Stress.
- Address change.
- Sudden changes in his routine
- Intestinal tumors.
- Tumors, cysts and enlargements of the colon and/or rectum.
- Ingestion of foreign bodies such as clothing.
- Neural diseases.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Diabetes.
- Injuries, fractures or infections in the anus and/or perianal area.
On the other hand, constipation may be due to insufficient production of the substances necessary for the proper digestive process. Said insufficiency causes the fecal matter to be drier than normal and to be retained in the tract, producing obstruction and non-evacuation.
Some of the causes mentioned can only be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian, so if after applying the home remedies for constipation in dogs that we share below, the animal continues to have difficulties in evacuating, it will be essential go to the specialistFor more information on this, see our article on "Causes and treatment of constipation in dogs".
Foods rich in fiber to combat constipation in dogs
An adequate supply of fiber helps to regulate transit and restore the intestinal flora due to the increase in the water content in fecal matter and the increased bowel movements Therefore, when a dog has constipation due to poor nutrition, lack of exercise, stress or consumption of foreign bodies, experts recommend a high fiber diet. Of course, it should be noted that an excess of this component, especially of the insoluble fiber type, can produce the opposite effect and worsen the animal's condition, causing even more constipation.
Below, we show the most recommended foods to treat constipation in dogs with home remedies.
Pumpkin, one of the best remedies for canine constipation
Pumpkin is one of the best natural remedies for constipation in dogs due to its high fiber content and high percentage of water In addition, it is rich in vitamins, such as C and A, and minerals, such as potassium, phosphorus and calcium. In this way, by introducing this food into the diet of the constipated dog, we will not only get the fecal matter to moisten and move better through the digestive tract, but we will also see the whole organism favored.
To give a dog pumpkin, we can cut the pulp of the fruit into small pieces and offer a maximum of two tablespoons a day, always without seeds. Another totally valid option is to cook the pumpkin first and let it warm up to give it to them, mixed with other foods that favor the situation. In this sense, both beet pulp and carrot are natural products that are also They help us reduce constipation in dogs. Both foods have fiber and other beneficial nutrients for the dog that we can take advantage of to improve their he alth in general.
Oat bran, high in fiber
Oat bran is one of the most recommended products to treat constipation in both animals and humans due to the large amount of fiberfound in its composition, in addition to vitamins, minerals and enzymes. To offer this product to the animal and increase its effects, we recommend preparing a breakfast by mixing a natural yogurt without sugar with one or two teaspoons of oat bran It is important to note that, depending on the size of the dog, the quantities must be adapted.
natural yogurt is one of the best sources of probiotics that we can find on the market, which favor the regulation of flora animal intestine. Thus, we not only recommend offering this product as a home remedy for constipation in dogs, but we also recommend introducing it into their regular diet and preparing this natural breakfast once a week, or every week and a half. To vary this dish a little, we have the possibility of adding one or two teaspoons of muesli, since this combination of cereals also provides a great contribution of fiber that will allow regulate motility.
Green leafy vegetables, the best for constipation in dogs
The best fiber to combat constipation is insoluble fiber, which is the one that increases the volume of stool and ensures that move more easily through the digestive tract. Within the list of foods rich in this type of fiber, we find green leafy vegetables, such as green beans and spinach, products totally suitable for dogs and highly recommended both to reduce constipation and to provide vitamins and minerals.
To offer these foods, we can wash the products well and cook them in boiling water. Likewise, we can mix them with boiled brown rice, another of the products rich in insoluble fiber and indicated to treat constipation. In fact, we can also use this food to mix it with pumpkin or carrot pieces.
Increased water consumption, vital for the dog's he alth
The correct consumption of water is essential to maintain the dog's he alth in perfect condition, regardless of how it is at any given time. But, when the animal presents a gastrointestinal imbalance, the intake of this liquid becomes even more important, since it favors its regulation, helps moisten the fecal matter and facilitate its passage during the evacuation process. For this reason, if we notice that he does not drink enough water, in addition to providing home remedies for constipation in previous dogs, we will place different bowls of fresh water throughout the hometo encourage him to drink, we will add water to his food or give it to him ourselves.
You can consult our article "How much water should a dog drink a day" to check if yours consumes the right amount.
Exercise, the key to reducing constipation in dogs
Since one of the main causes of constipation in dogs is lack of exercise, it is logical to think that establishing a correct routine of physical activity helps regulate intestinal transit of the animalIn this way, we recommend reviewing the amount of daily exercise that the affected dog should receive to start providing it, not only to favor the evacuation of feces, but also to avoid problems derived from the accumulation of energy such as stress, anxiety or boredom., which can translate into behavioral changes, destructive or aggressive attitudes.
When to go to the vet?
In about a couple of days after adapting his diet, we should start to see an improvement in the dog with constipation, producing softer stools and increasing the number of bowel movements. If after three days continues to have the same difficulties passing stool, we will go to the vet immediately. As we pointed out at the beginning, some of the causes are serious and require urgent medical attention to be treated properly.
