Dog Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Has your dog been straining or skipping the poop schedule lately? You’re not alone. Constipation in dogs is pretty common and while it’s usually mild and short-lived, it can sometimes hint at an underlying issue. Knowing what’s normal, what’s not and when to step in can make a big difference to your dog’s comfort and overall wellbeing.

This guide is made for Australian dog owners who want clear answers and practical advice. We’ll cover symptoms, causes, home remedies and when to see the vet. Plus how supporting gut health with pet supplements can help keep things moving long-term.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Constipated

What Does Normal Dog Poop Look Like?

A healthy dog poop should be firm but moist, shaped like a log and easy to pick up. Most dogs pass stool once or twice a day, though this can vary depending on diet, age and activity level.

If your dog hasn’t pooped in over 24 - 48 hours, or their stool looks dry, small or pebble-like, constipation could be the culprit.

Symptoms of Constipation in Dogs

Keep an eye out for these signs:

• No bowel movement in 24-48 hours
• Straining or crouching with little or no result
• Hard, dry or pebble-like stools
• Scooting, licking or biting around the bum
• A tense, painful abdomen
• Loss of appetite, bloating or vomiting
  
  

If your dog shows several of these symptoms or seems uncomfortable, it’s time to act!

Is It Constipation or Something Else?

Sometimes straining can look like constipation but isn’t. For instance, dogs with diarrhoea may strain because of irritation rather than blockage. Urinary problems can also cause similar posture or effort. If you’re unsure, it’s safest to have a vet take a look.

What Causes Dog Constipation?

Constipation can happen for lots of reasons, from diet and hydration to underlying medical issues (Pet MD). Understanding what’s behind it helps you fix it properly.

Diet-Related Causes

• Dehydration: Dry kibble without enough water can slow the digestive system.
• Low-fibre or bone-heavy diets: Especially common in raw feeders. Too many bones and not enough fibre can harden stool.
• Lack of gut-friendly bacteria: An imbalanced digestive tract can lead to sluggish bowel movements. Regular use of Probiotic for Dogs can support healthy digestion and stool consistency.
  
  

Lifestyle & Behavioural Causes

• Not enough exercise: Sedentary dogs have slower gut motility.
• Holding it in: Some dogs refuse to poop while travelling or in unfamiliar areas.
• Matted fur around the bum: Particularly in long-haired breeds, tangled fur can physically block stool from passing.
  
  

Health-Related Causes

• Anal gland impaction
• Side effects from medication
• Arthritis or back pain (painful squatting)
• Hypothyroidism, kidney disease or prostate enlargement
• Reduced movement after surgery
  
  

If your dog’s constipation is recurring, it might be linked to an underlying condition such as liver dysfunction or poor bile production. In that case, supporting liver health with Liver Supplement for Dogs can help digestion stay regular.

What to Do if Your Dog Is Constipated (Home Remedies)

For mild constipation only. If your dog hasn’t pooped in 48 hours, is vomiting or seems in pain, skip straight to the vet section below.

Increase Hydration

This is your first and easiest step!

• Refresh your dog’s water bowl often.
• Mix a little low-sodium broth into meals.
• Try a pet fountain to encourage drinking.
• Soak dry kibble before serving or switch to a partly wet diet.
• Offer ice cubes or frozen pumpkin puree as a fun way to hydrate.
  
  

Gentle Dietary Adjustments

• Add a spoon of 100% pumpkin puree (about 1 tsp per 4.5 kg of body weight - according to  Zumalka).
• Canned food or a little cooked oatmeal can add moisture.
• Some owners use psyllium husk but only under vet guidance.

Go slow. Too much fibre without enough water can actually worsen constipation.

Encourage Movement

Walks help more than most people realise. Gentle exercise or even a light belly massage can stimulate the digestive system.

Groom the Rear End

Check your dog’s backside! Matted fur or dried stool can cause a physical blockage. Trim the area gently or ask a groomer for help.

When to Call the Vet

If you’ve tried the above steps and your dog still hasn’t passed stool after 48 hours or seems in distress, it’s time to get professional help.

Your Dog’s Symptoms May Need Vet Care If:

• No bowel movement after 2+ days
• Vomiting or showing signs of pain
• Swollen or bloated abdomen
• Only passing mucus or blood
• Suspected foreign object ingestion
• Constipation that keeps coming back
  
  

What the Vet Will Do

The vet will start with a physical exam and may run tests like x-rays or bloodwork. Treatment could include fluids, a safe laxative or manual removal if stool is impacted. They’ll also check for underlying causes like prostate issues or liver dysfunction.

How to Prevent Dog Constipation (Long-Term)

Prevention is the key to comfort and it often comes down to steady routines and gut health support.

Diet & Hydration Habits

• Feed a balanced diet with appropriate fibre and moisture.
• Add pumpkin or psyllium (with vet direction) once or twice a week.
• Keep water fresh and available at all times.
• Wet or mixed feeding can help maintain hydration.
  
  

Gut Health Support (Natural Supplements)

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is one of the best defenses against constipation. Daily Probiotic for Dogs can:

• Improve stool consistency and frequency
• Support immune health
• Reduce bloating and discomfort
  
  

For older dogs or those with recurring digestive issues, Senior Dog Supplements and Liver Supplement for Dogs can help improve digestion and detoxification.

Lifestyle Prevention Tips

• Keep regular walks and exercise routines.
• Maintain consistent toilet times, especially during travel.
• Schedule regular grooming for long-haired breeds.
• Minimise stress or anxiety that could affect toilet habits.
• Book yearly vet check-ups, especially for senior dogs.
  
  

Conclusion

Dog constipation is common but with the right care, it’s usually simple to fix and even easier to prevent. Keep an eye on your dog’s bathroom habits, make small changes to their hydration and diet and don’t wait too long to act if things seem off.

A healthy gut means a happier dog! Daily support with Probiotic for Dogs keeps digestion balanced and stools regular, while Liver Supplement for Dogs helps with long-term digestive and detox health.

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FAQs – Fast Answers for Worried Dog Parents

Can I give my dog a laxative?
No, not without vet advice. Human laxatives can be dangerous for dogs.

Can dog constipation go away on its own?
Sometimes, yes. Mild cases can resolve with hydration, light exercise and dietary tweaks.

Are human remedies like milk or enemas safe?
No. These can cause pain or serious complications. Stick with dog-safe options or call your vet.

What food should I give my dog with constipation?
Moist foods with moderate fibre, such as pumpkin, wet food or soaked kibble. Avoid bones or very dry kibble until your dog’s back to normal.