Dogs will rarely become constipated but on occasion it can occur. Luckily, there are several home remedies that owners can use to help get their dog's system running smoothly again. However, once your dog has been unclogged, you may need to take a second look at his diet or other underlying factors which may be contributing to the problem.

Food Additions

Adding extra fiber to your dog's meal can make all the difference in your pet's bathroom habits. Metamucil is an over-the-counter laxative that many people use to help their systems run smoothly. This can also be useful to your dog. Veterinarian and affairs manager for Hill's Pet Nutrition Dr. David Hammond recommends 1/2 teaspoon of Metamucil twice daily for small dogs and approximately two teaspoons twice each day for large-sized dogs. An alternative to pharmaceutical methods includes adding olive oil to a pet's meal. This will stimulate the intestines and will also act as a lubricant. One teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil twice daily can be offered to your dog until his system is regular again.

Oat bran or Grape-Nuts Flakes are also high in fiber and safe for your dog. Again, depending upon the size of your dog, you can supply 1/2 teaspoon to 2 teaspoons to your pet's food to help ease constipation. Grape-Nuts is also safe enough for your pet to eat on a regular basis but should be limited if you dog begins to have loose stools. Canned pumpkin will not only cure constipation but dogs like the flavor. Pumpkin has a high content of fiber and is often recommended to people who suffer from constipation. Again, pumpkin is completely safe for a dog's digestive system and only one to two tablespoons daily is needed. Other foods that aid in bowel movements that your dog may enjoy include figs, dates, prunes, and bananas.

Alternatives to Additives

If you want to pass on adding extra fiber to your dog's diet, you still have several other options. Taking your pet for a 15 to 30 minute walk a couple times a day will be beneficial for your dog's overall health and aid with constipation. Also, you should give your dog plenty of time to answer nature's calling. Dogs that are not given ample time to do the deed can become constipated because the stools become hard and more difficult to pass. Lastly, keep water available for your pet at all times.

Prevent the Problem

A little prevention can go a long way to help ease your dog's discomfort. Do not feed your dog large food items that can block the intestines like large rib bones. Always have plenty of fresh water available throughout the day for your pet. If your dog doesn't appear to be drinking enough, add some water to your dog's dry dog food or place water bowls in different areas of your home to entice him to drink. "Mechanical constipation" can be caused from a hairy hind end which requires owners to keep the coat trimmed around their pet's rear.

If your dog is having bouts of constipation on a regular basis, you may consider adding extra fiber to your pet's diet on a continual basis. It is important to be watchful of dog's that suffer from constipation. If your dog is straining to have a bowel movement with no success (or very little) for 48 hours or more after trying one of these solutions, you should seek professional veterinarian care for your pet. There could be an underlying health problem that is more serious than simple constipation in your dog.

References:

THE DOCTOR'S BOOK OF HOME REMEDIES FOR DOGS AND CATS, copyright 1996.

NATURAL PET CURES, Dr. John Heinerman, copyright 1998.

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