It seems that humanity is being affected by an epidemic of poor health, so it should come as no great bombshell that our dogs are as well. Just as in people, canine constipation can be quite distressing and even painful, perhaps creating other more severe issues, like bowel blockages. While it is likely that canine constipation is the result of something serious, it is more likely a poor diet, dehydration, or not enough exercise. But nonetheless, treating dog constipation and making sure your dog can eliminate systematically is critical for a dog's general wellbeing.
Often, constipation in people or animals is treated with a laxative. Doctors warn, however, that over reliance on laxatives can result in a range of other health difficulties, for example the inability to eliminate in the long run, as the body becomes accustomed to a laxative and will not eliminate properly without it.
In nature, animals, including dogs, eat a diet high in protein. If they experience an upset stomach, they are usually seen consuming fiber, like grasses. Unfortunately, most usual commercially available dog foods are low in protein and fiber plus high in wheat, corn, fillers and carbohydrates. Dogs in the wild will not eat bread, it's that simple. Household dogs often have another unhealthy habit, they will eat just about anything, even items that are inedible!
Signs of canine constipation are usually not difficult to observe, if you pay attention. A dog will not be able to eliminate, though he will probably keep trying. Sooner or later, he will become heavy and sluggish, less playful and less likely to want to eat. He might even become a little gassier, as the undigested food left in his gut begins to ferment.
While controlling the condition is usually the smartest route by a good diet, plenty of water and exercise, at the point your dog is constipated, it will be time to consider more proactive measures. First, increase your dog's water consumption. One solution I have myself used included some cans of very high protein pet food with a few tablespoons of olive oil. The results were unpleasant but very helpful. A change in diet to include more oil and protein is generally quite effective.
It is often good to give your dog a nice little stomach rub. This shouldn't be anything too extreme. Don't rub too hard and always rub downwards, in the direction of the tail. This might help you determine such issues as a hardened stool, in which case a canine enema might be necessary. At any rate, making these adjustments should have your dog with some comfort.
Again, managing canine constipation is crucial. Prevention is clearly best, but should your best buddy be unable to eliminate, it's necessary to handle the problem right away, usually with a change in food and more water and exercise. If these techniques be insufficient, more aggressive strategies might need to be used, including a trip to the vet before the problem becomes more serious.