Dog Laxative
When to Use a Laxative for Dogs
Dogs become constipated just like people and sometimes they need to take a laxative for dogs. If you have suffered from constipation, the inability to have a bowel movement, you know exactly how your pet feels.
Because your dog cannot tell you what’s wrong, you will need to be watchful and make sure your dog is pooping every day. The first symptoms of dog constipation are a couple of days with no bowel movement or a long period of time in-between bowel movements. You might see your dog straining to poop with nothing coming out.
Other signs of constipation include hard stools, crying when trying to poop, becoming bloated, or bleeding from the anus from pushing too hard. Another indicator of constipation is loss of appetite.
Old dogs are most apt to suffer from constipation but no dog is exempt from the condition. A change in diet can bring on constipation or diarrhea. So can feeding your dog scraps from the table. Don’t give your dog anything which contains lots of sugar, rice, or flour as these are apt to give many dogs constipation. Avoid milk products as well.
Dogs can get constipated from getting into something they shouldn’t, such as the garbage. Puppies can chew and swallow an object that can block the colon. Such items include buttons or coins. These also cause constipation.
You might have to use a laxative for dogs if you don’t feed your dog enough fiber. You can give your dog a fiber supplement or switch to a different type of dog food which has more fiber. Dogs can also become constipated if they don’t drink enough water. Make sure your dog always has fresh water available. If he doesn’t like to drink, you can add water to his food.
You can avoid needing a laxative for dogs by giving your dogs daily supplements. This is also a good way to give them vitamins and minerals if you feel their normal dog food is lacking in this area.
If your dog is always irregular, there are plenty of options in choosing a natural laxative for dogs. Initially you should take your dog to the vet to make sure that this is indeed the problem. Constipation could also be caused by a problem in the intestines. Your vet may want to do some tests before administering a laxative for dogs.
Sometimes your dog might need an enema or a bit of a laxative, such as Milk of Magnesia ™. Talk to you vet about all the possible options. An old home remedy for dog constipation is canned pumpkin. Don’t give your dog the whole can. You need the kind with no added sugars and spices. A quarter of a teaspoon would be enough for a toy dog while a large dog, such as a St. Bernard might need several teaspoons. Ask your vet what amount to try with your dog.
To prevent needing a laxative for dogs, feed your dog a good brand of dog food. Make sure he always has plenty of water available and gets a good amount of exercise. If you work long hours, try to get a friend or relative to take your dog out during the day. Walk your dog instead of just letting him out by himself.
Stress can be a cause of health problems in both dogs and people. Stress can cause your dog to be constipated. Your vet can advise natural methods, over-the-counter drugs or in the worst cases, give you a prescription medication to take home.
Needing a laxative for dogs is not much different than needing a laxative for humans. The reasons for giving it are pretty much the same. Always be aware of your dog’s pooping habits so you can be immediately alert to the situation when things seem a little off. You’ll both be happy if you entirely avoid needing a laxative altogether.