Home remedies for canine constipation

Generally, the main cause of mild constipation in dogs is dehydration, changes in diet, hair, lack of exercise, old age, and / or a lack of fiber in their diet, also known as too much food! !

Serious constipation problems can be caused by intestinal obstruction, neurological problems, prostate problems, and / or intestinal parasites. For that, take your pet to your vet right away.

Before canine pharmaceuticals for all real or imagined health problems became all the rage, dog owners used everything they had around the house to help ease their dog’s discomfort. The following home remedies and having plenty of water available have helped many covered dogs to become “regular” again.

If possible, pick up that dog and get moving. Sometimes something as simple as exercise gets the pipes moving. If your dog is too old for a good run, take him for a walk. Bring water with you and try to encourage them to have a drink or two along the way.

Groom your dog regularly. This is especially important if you have a long-haired or thick-coated dog that sheds a lot. Cats aren’t the only ones to have “hairballs.” Intestinal blockage may be caused by your dog swallowing balls of his own hair.

Eat your usual dry food. Soak it in and let it soak for a while before giving it to your pet. As your dog shows signs of improvement, slowly wean him back to his usual food.

The most important thing to remember is to keep your dog hydrated! If they refuse to drink, mix the water half and half with broth.

Ice Cubes and Ice Chips – You can make broth ice cubes too!

Pumpkin: canned pumpkin, not pie filling. 1 teaspoon – 2 tablespoons added to canned food, once or twice a day, depending on the size of your dog. It works for diarrhea too! Purchase an ice cube tray at a dollar store. Freeze the pumpkin cubes. Take them out and store in an airtight freezer bag, to use as needed.

Breakfast cereal -1/2 cup unsweetened bran or shredded wheat soaked for a few minutes, then added to canned foods with additional water or chicken or beef broth.

Chicken or beef broth -1/4 cup – 1 cup, depending on the size of your pet, added to your canned food or breakfast cereal.

Olive oil, cod liver oil, mineral oil, or vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds, mixed with your dog’s canned food.

Metamucil: Mix 1/2 tsp – 1 tsp in your canned food, with additional water added, for small dogs. Mix 2 scoops in your canned food, with extra water added for larger dogs. Limit yourself to twice a day. Make sure there is enough fresh water available!

Beans and Green Beans: Add some beans to your dog’s diet to increase its fiber.

Canned dog food, with an extra splash of broth or water.

Milk, cottage cheese, or plain yogurt – Some dogs have trouble digesting dairy products. A little milk, yogurt, or cottage cheese may be enough to help loosen things up enough to get moving. Don’t overwork!

Bottom line: make sure your dog gets plenty of fluids. Keep them hydrated. Exercise and walk your dog at least twice a day. Feed smaller portions, more often. If his stool does not soften in 3 days, take it to your vet. Your problem may be more serious than home remedies can cure.