If you are looking for help in treating constipation in dogs, you already know that that both people and dogs can get a cold, be pestered by parasites and suffer from constipation.

You might even be surprised by the number of ailments that people and dogs share. Both can get a cold, be pestered by parasites and suffer from constipation. While you probably know exactly what to do if you are suffering from constipation, do you know what to do for canine constipation? It is not a commonly talked about issue, however it should be. Imagine how uncomfortable you feel when constipated, your pet feels the same.

Address the Cause

Constipation in dogs can occur for several reasons. Most common are; poor diet, lack of exercise or enough water. Even the best commercial dog food does not have enough water. Our pets need water rich foods or at least a constant source of pure fresh water.

Dog Food

Whether you feed mainly dry dog food or canned food, a good addition to the canine diet is fresh pulverized vegetables on a regular basis. Vegetables not only provide bulk and fiber both of which are essential to a healthy bowel movement, but are full of vitamins and minerals missing in manufactured foods. Carrots are a good choice as is fresh canned pumpkin. It is a good idea to stock up on a few extra cans around the holidays as this is the only time canned pumpkin is available in many areas.

Additives

Let me bring up pumpkin again. Plain canned pumpkin is a must to keep around

the house. It’s better than a can of medicine because it cures constipation, diarrhea and has nutrients to boot!

If your dog's poop seems dry, add 1/2 teaspoon to 1 Tablespoon of bran to each meal depending on size and weight. It will help the stools retain additional moisture. Powdered psyllium seed from the health food store works also, but use less; only 1/4 teaspoon to 2 teaspoons.

Mineral oil can be used on a temporary basis. 1/2 to 2 teaspoons to the food once a day (again, depending on the size of your dog) until he poops. Mineral oil works well because it is not absorbed by the body so acts like a lubricant allowing the fecal matters to make a smooth exit.

The only caveat with mineral oil is prolonged use can create a dependency and take vitamin A from your dog's body.

House Trained

Sometimes your pet will make himself constipated; this is especially true for a well-trained indoor dog left alone for an extended amount of time. If you must be gone, remember to enlist the assistance of a friend or neighbor who can drop by and let the dog out! You can also prevent this issue by training your dog to use one of the many commercial potty pads available.

Exercise

Believe it or not, lack of exercise can be a major contributor to constipation. A good exercise regimen keeps the internal organs healthy by increasing blood flow throughout the body and massaging the internal organs. This especially applies to dogs that spend a good deal of their day in the house. A proper exercise schedule should include some type of daily activity. Taking them out in the back yard for a long game of fetch is good, as are daily walks.

Conclusion

Constipation is not fun for man or dog and if you are noticing signs of this problem in your canine, it is up to you to address the problem. Watch for potential triggers such as long periods in the house with no potty break for indoor dogs or lack of fresh water. When you begin to see signs that your dog is straining employ one or many of the above techniques.