Signs and Symptoms of Constipation in Dogs
The signs and symptoms of constipation in dogs are discussed, as well as how to treat and prevent this condition.
Much of a pet owner’s life revolves around their dog’s bathroom habits. Potty training, frequent bathroom breaks, and the occasional upset stomach are the norm for most dog owners.
However, pet parents are mostly concerned about where their dog does its business, not that the dog is NOT doing its business. Constipation is an important dog health subject, which will be discussed here.
Highlighted symptoms can be easily detected with the Actijoy solution. The Actijoy dog tracker monitors activity level and quality & quantity of rest and sleep. The Actijoy WiFi Food & Water bowls watch drinking and eating habits and possible changes so you can keep track of your dog’s health 24/7.
The veterinarian will perform a physical exam. Other tests include x-rays ultrasound, and blood work. Depending on the reason for your dog’s constipation, surgery, IV fluids, enema, laxatives, stool softeners, or manual removal of stool may be necessary.
The Actijoy Healthbook allows pet owners to make convenient notes regarding their dogs’ behavior, helping your veterinarian diagnose the cause of most health problems.
Three of the most common reasons for constipation are dehydration, missed meals, and lack of exercise. The Actijoy Buddy Pack can help you track your dog’s eating, drinking, and exercise habits.
Ultimately, occasional constipation in dogs is not cause for concern. However, in some cases constipation may be a dog health emergency. Understanding the cause of your dog’s constipation and knowing how to prevent this condition from occurring is important.
However, pet parents are mostly concerned about where their dog does its business, not that the dog is NOT doing its business. Constipation is an important dog health subject, which will be discussed here.
Signs of Constipation in Dogs
The symptoms of canine constipation include:- Frequent signs of elimination, without results (i.e. circling, squatting, scooting)
- More than 48 hours without elimination
- Pain during elimination
- Hard/dry stool
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Straining
- Lethargy
Highlighted symptoms can be easily detected with the Actijoy solution. The Actijoy dog tracker monitors activity level and quality & quantity of rest and sleep. The Actijoy WiFi Food & Water bowls watch drinking and eating habits and possible changes so you can keep track of your dog’s health 24/7.
Causes of Constipation in Dogs
There are many possible causes for constipation in dogs. Dog health experts cite the following reasons:- Foreign matter in stomach (i.e. hair, bones, toys, gravel etc.)
- Side effect of medication
- Dehydration
- Obesity
- Anal or intestinal obstruction
- Lack of exercise
- Neurologic disorder
- Metabolic disorder
- Endocrine disorder
- Hernia
- Arthritis
- Old age
- Missed meals
Treatment for Constipation in Dogs
If your dog is displaying the signs of constipation, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. If the problem appears within 24 hours of your dog ingesting a toy or other object, you should treat constipation as an emergency.The veterinarian will perform a physical exam. Other tests include x-rays ultrasound, and blood work. Depending on the reason for your dog’s constipation, surgery, IV fluids, enema, laxatives, stool softeners, or manual removal of stool may be necessary.
The Actijoy Healthbook allows pet owners to make convenient notes regarding their dogs’ behavior, helping your veterinarian diagnose the cause of most health problems.
Preventing Constipation in Dogs
Many dog health problems can be prevented, including constipation.Three of the most common reasons for constipation are dehydration, missed meals, and lack of exercise. The Actijoy Buddy Pack can help you track your dog’s eating, drinking, and exercise habits.
Ultimately, occasional constipation in dogs is not cause for concern. However, in some cases constipation may be a dog health emergency. Understanding the cause of your dog’s constipation and knowing how to prevent this condition from occurring is important.
