What Can I Give My Dog for Constipation?

Constipation is a common problem for many canine companions. Just as with humans, constipation can have an uncomfortable impact on your dog’s health and wellbeing. If your pup is having difficulty with regular bowel movements, there are a few things you can do to make them more comfortable.

First and foremost, ensuring that your dog is hydrated is key. Providing plenty of access to fresh, clean water can help to flush out their system and improve digestion. If your pup isn’t particularly excited about plain water, you can add a few drops of low-sodium chicken or beef broth (no onion!) to make it more palatable.

Next, you’ll want to make sure that your pup is eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Low-residue diets tend to be beneficial for pups with constipation because they’re easier to digest, while are higher in fiber can help to move things along. Talk with your veterinarian to discuss the best nutritional approach for your pup and if any additional supplements may be helpful.

You’ll also want to give your pup plenty of opportunity to exercise and get their bowels moving. Even a short walk or a few minutes of playtime can do wonders. And if it’s a medical issue, prompt veterinary care is necessary to get your dog back on the road to health.

Finally, some additional dietary and at-home treatments may help to alleviate your pup’s constipation. Increasing dietary fiber, for example, can be beneficial for many canines. You can increase dietary fiber with such ingredients as canned pumpkin, wheat bran, or a light dusting of flax meal. Introduce any new supplement slowly, to prevent gastric upset, and over the course of several days.

Another possible remedy is coconut oil. While there’s no solid scientific research on the efficacy of using coconut oil to treat constipation in dogs, some pet parents report success. Start by giving your pup one teaspoon of coconut oil daily and watch closely to see if it helps them. If not, you can increase the dosage in half-teaspoon increments, up to 1 tablespoon per day.

In addition, some people suggest giving pets probiotics and prebiotic supplements to help improve their gut health and, in turn, their digestion as a whole. Peppermint oil can also be useful, with just a few drops added to your pup’s meal to help stimulate their digestive system.

Overall, it’s best to discuss any dietary tweaks, supplements, and home remedies with your veterinarian before providing them to your pup. If constipation is an ongoing issue, professional veterinary care is the best way to ensure your pet is properly healthy and happy, regardless of the cause of the constipation.

In summary, constipation can be an uncomfortable issue for your pup. Thankfully, there are some solutions you can do to make them more comfortable. Providing fresh, clean water and a balanced diet can be helpful, as can increasing dietary fiber and trying some natural supplements such as coconut oil and peppermint oil. Ultimately, however, it’s best to discuss any at-home solutions with your veterinarian to ensure your pup is healthy, happy, and moving normally again.