My dog is constipated. What do I do?

01/15/25 4:17pm

This is my first time owning a dog and my 6-month-old retriever is constipated. He normally poops 1-2 times a day, but he hasn't gone in about 36 hours now and I’m sort of freaking out. I did call my friend who is a vet student and she sort of said that it should be okay but that if nothing changes it’s an emergency. Is that true? When do I need to go to the ER? My dog seems like he’s trying to go, but nothing comes out. I feel so bad for him but at the same time I don’t want to go spend a bunch of money on the vet if this is just a normal thing that happens to dogs sometimes.

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WikiCapybaraRunner114

01/16/25 4:45pm

Aw, poor puppy! Constipation is relatively common among dogs the same way it’s relatively common among people. Your vet friend is right, this isn’t necessarily the end of the world but if your dog can’t go to the bathroom after two days or if your dog passes blood, starts vomiting, or begins crying or whimpering when they try to use the bathroom, you need to see a vet ASAP.

Now, as for tips you can follow now, I’d recommend giving your dog plenty of water. They may not drink as much when they’re struggling to go, and dehydration will just make everything worse. I’d also try giving your pup a combo of pumpkin puree and wet canned dog food for their next meal. That stuff will improve their digestion and help them defecate. Also, make sure you go on really long walks. Walking helps to loosen your dog’s GI system and they’re more likely to go if you two take some long strolls.

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WikiIbisCaster694

01/17/25 6:58am

Is your dog getting enough water? If they're not hydrated, that can contribute to constipation problems. Make sure their water source is fresh. You can also gently rub their belly around their anus to physically stimulate a bowel movement, just make sure you wash your hands or use a wet wipe to keep everything sterile.

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WikiButterflyWhisperer301

01/18/25 10:53am

In addition to canned pumpkin, other foods you can try giving your dog are cucumbers, green beans, sweet potatoes, or even a teaspoon of coconut oil. Don't try to self medicate! Human laxatives and medications don't work the same on dogs as they do on us.

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