Has it come to your notice that your pet pup is having trouble with his bowel movement? Has it been too long since his last poop? Most dogs eliminate once or twice a day depending on their metabolism and other physical factors. Puppies, on the other hand, eliminate waste multiple times depending on their age and breed.
Dog constipation involves your dog straining to poop and trying to eliminate but not being successful. In this blog post, I’ll answer the question, “how long can a dog go without pooping?” and share a few things about it. So, without further a do, let’s get started!
Constipation in Dogs: What You Need to Know
It’s true; dogs get constipated just like humans do. It isn’t something you need to panic about or rush your dog to the vet for. Nevertheless, it can be a cause for concern if it goes on for a long time. In doggy terms, the inability to pass stools regularly and is typically deemed as canine constipation.
If your constipated dog does relieve himself, the stools are likely to be hard, or your dog may pass mucus instead of stools. Your dog is likely to suffer from constipation at least once in his life. But, if it continues over time, it develops into a condition called obstipation. In this case, the dog retains the hard fecal matter in the digestive tract which prevents your dog from pooping at all!
Also Read: Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach – Check Out This Guide
The Symptoms of Canine Constipation: What You Need to Look Out for
If your dog hasn’t pooped for over 48 hours, that’s the biggest and the most obvious symptom of canine constipation of all. Other than that, following are the list of symptoms of constipation in dogs:
- Crouching, crying, or showing pain when trying to eliminate
- Dry, hard stools which feel like stones if you pick them up
- Straining to eliminate
- Eliminating small amount of liquid fecal matter mixed with mucus or blood
- Particles of grass, string, feces, and other objects in or around the butt
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
It is essential that you consult your vet to treat constipation in your dog. Keep in mind that constipation, in itself, can be a symptom of an even adverse problem. So, instead of treating your dog at home, call the vet. Constipation in dogs can also be a sign of a serious condition such as:
- Urinary tract infection
- Colitis
- Bladder obstruction
- Anorectal obstruction
The Treating Constipation in Dogs at Home in Dogs
The most common reason for constipation in dogs is there being a blockage in the digestive tract by something that’s not digested by the dog such as grass, bone, rocks, garbage, etc. Another common reason in older dogs is not drinking enough water. Other than that, following are some of the common causes of constipation in dogs:
- Not having enough fiber in the diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Worm infestation
- Blockage of the anus by matted hair
- Kidney disease
- Enlarged prostate gland
- A hernia
- Central nervous system disorders
- Tumors
- Injuries
- Stress or anxiety
- Medication given to treat another condition
- Hyperthyroidism
Note that this is merely a list of common causes but, it doesn’t include all the possible causes. Taking your dog to the vet will be a good decision.
Also Read: Best Dog Food for Small Breeds – Top Reviews to Buy
Treating Constipation in Dogs at Home
If your dog has been constipated for less than 48 hours, you can try to address it at home with some remedies. However, if it has been over the limit, it is best to contact your vet. Following are some of the things you can try to relieve constipation in your dog:
- Hydration
- A mixture of food and mineral oil to help lubricate the colon
- Stool softeners
- Canned pumpkin and bran are also effective
- Dietary changes such as including more fiber in your dog’s diet
- Milk of magnesia
- Increase in exercise
How Long Can Dog Go Without Pooping?
While most dog pooping twice a day, it is not uncommon for dogs to poop once a day either—it all depends on your dog’s genetic and diet. However, if your dog hasn’t eliminated in over 48 hours, you should take him to the vet immediately to know what the reason is. Usually, constipation in dogs isn’t something to worry too much about and isn’t usually a symptom of a severe condition.
Summing Up
Going 48 hours without pooping could be a symptom of constipation in dogs. It isn’t something very unusual for canines. Regardless, you’ll need to take your furry friend to the vet if your dog isn’t able to eliminate for more than 48 hours.
Constipation could in itself be a symptom of something else entirely. You can try home remedies to help your dog relieve himself. Still, have any questions or concerns? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Or read more : How Long Can A Dog Go Without Eating?
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