Dog Constipation: Vet Advice on Causes, Care and When to Worry

Dogs aren’t always great at pacing themselves. They hold it in on road trips, swallow fur while grooming, raid the bin for bones, or skip water when they’re too distracted to drink.

In the clinic, I see it in all kinds of dogs: pups that haven’t gone in two days, seniors who strain but can’t pass much, or dogs who seem fine until they’re suddenly bloated and uncomfortable.

This guide breaks down what causes constipation in dogs, how to help at home, what to feed, and when to check in with your vet. Whether your dog’s skipping poos after surgery or just not quite their usual self, catching these changes early can make all the difference.

Every dog’s toilet routine is a little different. But generally, dogs should poo at least once daily, and their stools should be well-formed, moist, and easy to pass.

Signs of constipation in dogs include:

• Straining without producing stool
• Passing small, dry, or pebble-like stools
• Vocalising or pacing during toilet attempts
• Scooting or licking near the anus
• Less frequent poos than usual
• Discomfort when touched near the lower back or belly

Constipation in dogs happens when stool becomes too dry, hard, or difficult to pass, often due to dehydration, lack of fibre, low activity, or something blocking or slowing the digestive tract.

Dogs are enthusiastic chewers, fast eaters, and often can be a little too interested in things they shouldn’t swallow. Their digestive system is pretty resilient, but it doesn’t take much to slow things down.

Since constipation is a symptom, not a condition, it means something is blocking or delaying normal stool movement, and it often starts in the colon.

Ingesting Hair, Bones, or Foreign Objects

Dogs that chew on bones, lick themselves excessively, or eat fur, grass, dirt, or toys can end up with indigestible material in the gut. These can form blockages or slow stool movement, especially in small breeds or dogs with a history of scavenging.

Routine Disruptions and Reduced Activity

Dogs that hold in stool due to stress, travel, schedule changes, or don't go outdoors much, can become backed up. Senior dogs or those recovering from injury may also move less, which slows digestion.

Diet and Hydration Issues

Some dogs can become dehydrated from vomiting, which then leads to constipation.

Medication Side Effects

Some medications and certain painkillers, can slow gut motility. If your dog starts straining after surgery or treatment, this may be a factor.

Underlying Conditions

Chronic constipation or repeated episodes may be linked to:

• Anal gland impaction
• Orthopaedic pain or arthritis
• Hypothyroidism
• Prostate enlargement
• Megacolon or spinal injury
  
  

If your dog hasn’t passed a stool in more than 48 hours or seems uncomfortable, bloated, or off their food, it’s worth getting checked. Constipation left untreated can become more serious quickly.

The right food can help get things moving. When your dog is constipated, gentle, moisture-rich meals with added fibre can provide relief and support regular bowel movements as a first step.

Bland, Fibre-Rich Meals (short-term solution)

For mild constipation, offer small, easily digestible meals that promote hydration and soften the stool. This is a good home approach for dogs who are still active, eating, and otherwise well.

• Plain cooked chicken (skinless, boneless)
• Steamed or mashed pumpkin or sweet potato (plain, no seasoning)
• A splash of low-sodium broth or added water

Moisture is key. Add fresh water or broth to dry food or switch to a wet diet temporarily. You can also include a small amount of unflavoured psyllium husk (approximately a ¼ teaspoon for adult dogs) to gently increase fibre, but go slow and monitor stool consistency.

Avoid bones, fatty scraps, or rawhide chews during recovery, as they can worsen blockage and delay relief.

If your dog is still experiencing constipation after 2 days, book an appointment with your vet. 

High-Fibre or Digestive Care Diets (long-term support)

If your dog experiences constipation regularly, it’s worth reviewing their daily diet. Work with your vet on a long-term constipation-friendly feeding plan that focuses on fibre, hydration, and gut health.

Look for:

• High-fibre or digestive care diets
• Vet-recommended gastrointestinal or stool-softening formulas
• Wet dog food, or mixed feeding (wet and dry dog food) to increase moisture intake
• Added dog prebiotics and natural stool regulators

If your dog is still eating, drinking, and behaving normally, you can try a few at-home remedies for mild constipation:

1. Add fibre: Plain, unflavoured pumpkin (1–2 tsp for small dogs, 1–2 tbsp for large dogs) can help soften stool and support regularity. Psyllium husk (¼ tsp daily) is another gentle fibre option.

2. Encourage hydration: Switch to wet food, add water to dry food, or offer dog-safe bone broth. Hydration helps soften stool and ease its passage.

3. Gentle exercise: Movement stimulates bowel motility. A walk or light play may help get things moving.

4. Keep a close eye: Monitor stool frequency, behaviour, and any signs of discomfort. Note when your dog last passed a normal stool.

While you can’t control how long your dog chooses to hold it in, many cases of constipation are preventable with the right daily habits.

• Feed a balanced, moisture-rich diet: Adding wet food, broth, or water to your dog's meals helps keep stools soft and easier to pass. This is especially helpful for dogs that aren’t big drinkers.
• Include gentle fibre in their routine: Fibre supports stool formation and gut motility. Ingredients like pumpkin or sweet potato can help, along with high-fibre or digestive care diets recommended by your vet.
• Keep your dog moving: Exercise supports healthy digestion. Regular walks, play, or enrichment can help prevent sluggish bowels.
• Stick to a consistent toilet routine: Holding in stool for too long dries it out, making it harder to pass: Keep a predictable schedule for walks and toilet breaks, especially after meals and rest.
• Avoid problem chews: Bones, rawhide, and some toys can cause blockages or contribute to constipation. Monitor chewing habits and stick to digestible, vet-approved options.
• Stay alert to medications or changes: Some medications can slow the gut. If constipation appears after a treatment change, ask your vet whether it's a known side effect or if dietary tweaks could help.
• Keep anal glands in check: Impacted or irritated anal glands can make it uncomfortable for your dog to poo, leading them to hold it in or strain. If your dog scoots, licks excessively, or seems reluctant to go, ask your vet to check and express their glands as needed.

Not all constipation can be managed at home. Get in touch with your vet if:

• Your dog hasn’t passed a stool in 48+ hours
• Straining produces nothing or only small, dry pieces
• There’s bloating, lethargy, or vomiting
• Your dog is in visible discomfort or won’t eat
• Constipation keeps coming back

Your vet will start with a physical exam, which includes checking hydration, abdominal tension, and the consistency of faeces and prostate (if male). You may be asked about:

• Diet and feeding schedule
• Stool history and frequency
• Recent stressors, surgery, or medications
• Causes of underlying pain such as hip arthritis that may be making it difficult for your dog to do a normal poo
  
  

Depending on the case, your vet might recommend:

• X-rays to check for blockages or colon enlargement
• Intravenous fluids
• Enemas or manual evacuation under sedation
• Laxatives or stool softeners
• Diet changes or prescription gastrointestinal foods
• Further testing to rule out gland, spinal, or hormonal conditions

How can I tell if my dog is constipated or has another problem?

Dog constipation is often confused with diarrhoea or urinary issues because symptoms like straining or frequent squatting can look similar. If your dog is producing small, dry stools or none at all, and is not showing signs of loose stool or frequent urination, constipation is more likely. If you’re unsure, monitor your dog’s bowel movements and consult your veterinarian for a clear diagnosis.

How long can a dog go without pooping before I should worry?

Most healthy dogs should have at least one bowel movement per day. If your dog hasn’t pooped in over 48 hours, or if you notice additional symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, it’s time to contact your veterinarian. Delayed treatment can lead to more serious complications.

Can stress or changes in routine cause constipation in dogs?

Yes, stress, travel, or sudden changes in your dog’s environment can disrupt their normal bathroom habits and lead to constipation. Maintaining a consistent routine, providing a calm environment, and encouraging regular exercise can help prevent stress-related constipation in dogs.

What should I do if home remedies for dog constipation aren’t working?

If your dog remains constipated after trying safe home remedies like adding pumpkin or extra hydration, or if constipation lasts more than two days, consult your veterinarian. Be prepared to share details about your dog’s diet, recent changes, medications, and when they last had a normal bowel movement to help your vet diagnose the issue.

Is it safe to give my dog human laxatives or enemas for constipation?

No, you should never give your dog human laxatives or enemas unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian. Many over-the-counter remedies for people can be dangerous for dogs and may cause serious side effects. Always consult your vet for safe and effective treatment options for dog constipation.

Most bouts of constipation resolve quickly once you tackle the basics: fresh water, gentle fibre, regular walks, and a pause on bone-heavy treats or chews. 

Monitor your dog’s stools and comfort: no bowel movement, hard pellets, or straining for more than 48 hours is your cue to book a consult. If bloating, vomiting, or sudden lethargy appear, call your vet straight away. 

Acting early keeps discomfort brief, prevents serious blockages, and gets your mate back to their normal wag-and-walk routine sooner.

This article was written by Dr. Lisa Deering