Dog Constipation: Signs, Causes and Treatment

Constipation is a condition in which a dog passes stool less often or in a smaller amount than usual. While this sounds simple enough, it's important to recognize that constipation isn't a total blockage of defecation. When constipation is severe enough that defecation is impossible or nearly impossible, it's referred to as obstipation. With constipation, the bowels are still moving along, just more slowly; with obstipation, things come to a near halt, which is more serious.

Signs of constipation or obstipation in dogs include:

• Asking to go out more often despite producing little or no stools

• Straining to defecate

• Producing hard, dry stool

• Defecating in unusual locations, such as house soiling

• Producing small quantities of stool

• Producing small amounts of liquid stools mixed with mucous or blood

• Vomiting

• Acting lethargic

While considered a normal stretch for dogs, repeatedly assuming or holding the "prayer position" — front limbs stretched out and lowered with hind limbs in the air — for an extended period can also indicate abdominal discomfort, particularly in combination with other signs of constipation.

A wide range of causes can lead to dog constipation, including:

• Intestinal tract blockages

• Lack of water intake

• Conditions that compress the colon or rectum

• Neuromuscular problems

• Side effect of drugs or anesthesia

• Tumors

Reluctance to eliminate on a regular basis can also contribute to constipation. This may occur due to environmental stress or conditions that affect mobility, such as arthritis in dogs or canine hip dysplasia. Sedentary habits or lack of exercise may also play a role in dog constipation.

What if Your Dog's Constipated After Diarrhea?

Since diarrhea empties the bowels, it can take time for your dog's gastrointestinal (GI) tract to resume as usual while normal, healthy stool forms. For this reason, it's possible your dog may not produce stool for a couple of days following a diarrhea episode. However, this isn't considered constipation — it's just your dog's digestion getting back on track. If your dog had diarrhea and it's been more than a couple days since they've produced stool, check in with your veterinarian.

Can Antibiotics Cause Constipation in Dogs?

Antibiotics can alter your dog's gut flora, which may lead to digestive upset such as gas, diarrhea and constipation. If your vet prescribes your dog antibiotics, talk to them about what to expect and when to reach out.

While it would be nice to have a one-and-done dog constipation remedy, treatment depends upon the severity, duration and underlying cause of constipation.

Some cases of constipation are transient and may resolve without medical intervention. Mild to moderate or recurrent cases typically require some level of treatment. Your vet may recommend various treatment modalities depending on your dog's situation, including:

• Psyllium (soluble fiber)

• Stool softeners

• Laxatives

• Motility modifiers

• Subcutaneous or intravenous fluids to correct dehydration

• Enemas

• Surgical removal (in severe cases)

What to Give a Small Dog for Constipation: Special Considerations

Generally speaking, the same treatment methods apply to small dogs. However, small dogs and puppies are at greater risk for canine dehydration compared to large breed dogs. Constipation can also progress more rapidly in small dogs, so it's essential to seek veterinary care right away.

Upset stomachs are normal now and then, but you can take steps to help prevent them. For one, if you have to change your puppy's food, always do so gradually over a week by mixing small amounts of the new food in with the old food. Consider providing your puppy with a complete and balanced food intended for their life stage and formulated to support gut health with prebiotic fiber — your veterinarian can help you narrow down your options.

Keep garbage cans sealed, lock away any potentially toxic items and avoid feeding your puppy table scraps. Puppies require a delicate balance of nutrients to thrive, and pizza crust isn't part of that equation.

Last but not least, take your puppy in for regular veterinarian visits, including vaccines and parasite prevention. This is an important part of keeping your puppy's gut health in excellent shape. If you have a puppy with an upset stomach that doesn't seem to be improving on its own, trust your gut and seek veterinary care. Part of showing your love is seeking the professional care your puppy deserves.