Constipation in Dogs

How Dangerous Is Constipation in Dogs? 

Constipation in dogs can appear suddenly or over long periods. Acute constipation is usually less severe than chronic constipation. It is relatively easy to treat and rarely causes complications. However, untreated constipation can lead to long-term issues, greatly reducing your dog’s quality of life. 

Why Is Chronic Constipation in Dogs Problematic? 

When poo builds up in the large intestine over time, it stretches and overextends the intestinal walls, leading to a megacolon. This permanently damages the intestinal muscles. 

As a result, normal bowel movements (peristalsis) are also affected. This complication of chronic constipation is irreversible. It will cause ongoing issues for your dog. 

Symptoms: How Do I Know If My Dog Is Constipated? 

Constipation in dogs is often evident when they repeatedly and unsuccessfully try to poo. Sometimes, they only manage to pass small, hard poo balls. This is often only possible with pain. 

Additionally, the poo might be mixed with blood or mucus. Your dog might also expel a pseu diarrhoea. In this case, blood and mucus push past the hard poo due to heavy straining. Other general symptoms may include loss of appetite, listlessness, vomiting, and bloating. 

Diagnosis: How Is Constipation in Dogs Diagnosed? 

Suspecting constipation in dogs is usually quickly determined by the owner’s report and the vet’s examination. However, pinpointing the cause is often more challenging, especially for persistent or recurring constipation. In such cases, the vet will conduct further tests: 

• X-rays of the abdomen, pelvis, and spine 
• Rectal examination 
• Ultrasound 
• Blood tests: in case of suspected metabolic diseases or infections 

If a bowel tumour or foreign object is suspected, the vet might also perform a colonoscopy. This involves examining the bowel internally using a flexible device with a camera. The vet may also take tissue samples if necessary. 

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Therapy: What Are the Treatment Options? 

Vets typically distinguish between minor, short-term constipation in dogs and severe, recurring, or long-term cases. 

For minor constipation, a short-term dietary adjustment, such as adding lactulose, milk, or psyllium husks with plenty of fluids, is often sufficient. Additionally, various types of enemas can make the poo more slippery. The vet might also recommend switching to suitable diet food. 

In more severe cases, the vet will first use infusions to ensure the dog is well-hydrated. If necessary, they will remove the poo, sometimes under anaesthesia, using special enemas and gentle massage. In particularly severe cases, an operation might be required. 

For further therapy and preventing relapses, treating the underlying cause is essential. 

Are There Home Remedies for Constipation in Dogs? 

If your dog experiences sudden, mild constipation, home remedies can sometimes help. If the dog’s poo is particularly hard, it is advisable to soften it with the following natural laxatives: 

• Increase fluid intake 
• Milk 
• Psyllium 

If your dog’s constipation persists, you should definitely consult a vet. The same applies if your dog suffers from recurring constipation. 

Note: Choosing the right diet food can support your dog’s natural bodily functions. However, diet food cannot cure or prevent diseases. Always discuss the correct nutrition for your dog with your vet. Special Diet Foods for Dogs are available at the zooplus online shop. 

Causes: How Does Constipation in Dogs Occur? 

The causes of constipation, medically known as “constipation” or “obstipation,” are varied. In any case, the food mass in the bowel cannot be moved forward, becomes increasingly dehydrated, and gets stuck in the bowel. 

Feeding and husbandry errors are among the most common reasons for constipation. These include: 

• Feeding too many bones 
• Low fluid intake or fluid loss, e.g., in febrile diseases 
• Swallowing foreign objects 
• Reduced movement, limited opportunities for pooing 
• Low-fibre feeding 

Additionally, the following causes can lead to constipation: 

• Pain in the musculoskeletal system or anal sac inflammation 
• Fractures in the pelvic area 
• Tumours or other masses such as lymph nodes or haematomas pressing on the rectum, as well as various prostate diseases 
• Influence of medication 
• Weakening of the intestinal wall, e.g., due to pouches 
• Metabolic diseases such as hypothyroidism and neurological disorders of the colon 

Constipation is particularly common in weak or elderly dogs. For these dogs, you should visit a vet early to identify and address the cause. 

Prognosis: What Are the Chances of Recovery? 

Following the measures prescribed by the vet, the prognosis for constipation in dogs is generally good. It becomes more challenging if the dog already has damage from constipation, such as a megacolon. 

If the constipation is a result of another underlying condition, the chances of recovery depend on how treatable that condition is. 

Prophylaxis: How Can Constipation in Dogs Be Prevented? 

Most dogs can avoid constipation through a balanced diet rich in fibre. Additionally, keep an eye on your dog’s weight. Overweight dogs are more prone to constipation than those with a normal weight. 

Regular exercise and activity are essential for dogs, as is plenty of water. Monitor your dog’s poo habits to act immediately in cases of diarrhoea or constipation. 

Older dogs with pain in the musculoskeletal system benefit from pain management, which can also prevent pain-related constipation. Dogs that tend to eat everything like “hoovers” should be prevented from doing so, not only to avoid constipation.