What should I do if my dog doesn't defecate

Watching their furry child spin around on the ground, exerting force but unable to defecate, the anxiety and helplessness instantly surge in the hearts of every homeowner. Constipation in dogs may seem like a small problem, but if not handled properly, it can cause unbearable pain to dogs and can develop into a serious health crisis. As owners, we need to understand the defecation signals of dogs, understand the reasons behind constipation, and master scientific and effective coping methods in order to help them get rid of this indescribable pain.

Constipation is not a single symptom, but the result of multiple factors working together. Diet is the primary consideration. When a dog lacks fiber intake or water intake, intestinal peristalsis slows down and feces become dry and hard, making it difficult to excrete. Suddenly changing the brand or formula of dog food may also disrupt the original digestion rhythm. Some owners, out of love, feed their dogs a large amount of bones, unaware that these bone fragments will form hard lumps in the intestines, becoming a "roadblock" to defecation. In addition, ingestion of foreign objects such as toy fragments, socks, etc. is a common cause of intestinal obstruction, which is often accompanied by more serious symptoms such as vomiting and loss of appetite.

Age plays an important role in constipation. Older dogs are more prone to difficulty defecating due to slowed metabolism and decreased intestinal muscle tone. Puppies, on the other hand, may experience temporary defecation disorders due to stress or environmental changes. It is worth noting that certain breeds, such as bulldogs and sheepdogs, are born with a higher risk of intestinal problems and require owners to pay extra attention to their bowel habits. Insufficient exercise is also an important reason for constipation in modern pet dogs, especially those small dogs that are kept indoors for a long time. Lack of exercise directly leads to slowed intestinal peristalsis.

When a dog is found to have not defecated for more than 48 hours, or to have hunched back, whimpered, expelled small amounts of hard stool, or even bloody stool during defecation, immediate action needs to be taken. Mild constipation can be treated with home care by feeding a small amount of pumpkin puree (note that it is pure pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling) to the dog. The soluble fiber in it can soften the feces. Warm olive oil or mineral oil (1 teaspoon per 10 kilograms of body weight) can also lubricate the intestines, but excessive use should be avoided. Gently massage the anal area with a cotton ball soaked in warm water, which can sometimes stimulate the defecation reflex. Increasing water intake is crucial. You can place more water bowls at home or add a small amount of low sodium chicken soup to the water to increase its appeal.

Exercise is a natural intestinal massager, taking a gentle walk with a constipated dog can promote intestinal peristalsis through physical activity. For dogs who are accustomed to sitting for long periods of time, ensuring at least 30 minutes of exercise time every day can not only prevent constipation, but also improve overall health. Abdominal massage is also a good method. Let the dog lie on its side, gently press the abdomen clockwise with your palm, and push it from behind the ribs towards the pelvis, mimicking the direction of intestinal peristalsis. These methods require the owner's patience and tenderness, and the dog's reaction should be closely observed during the process. If pain is shown, it should be stopped immediately.

When home care does not take effect within 24 hours, or when dogs experience symptoms such as vomiting, bloating, and mental fatigue, immediate medical attention must be sought. Veterinarians may perform palpation, X-ray or ultrasound examinations to determine the severity of constipation and the presence of obstruction. The treatment methods include enema, taking prescription laxatives, and in severe cases, surgery may even be necessary to remove the obstruction. Never self administer human laxatives to dogs, as these medications are difficult to control in dosage and may cause severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. It is also necessary to avoid using stimulating laxatives such as suppositories based on experience, as improper use may lead to rectal injury.

Prevention is always better than cure. Establishing regular bowel habits is key. Take your dog to a designated location for bowel movements at a fixed time every day to create a conditioned reflex. In terms of dietary management, choose professional dog food rich in dietary fiber, and add natural fiber sources such as steamed carrots and oats in moderation. Regularly grooming dogs, especially long haired breeds, to reduce their chances of swallowing hair. In terms of living environment, ensure that dogs have sufficient water and appropriate exercise space. For elderly dogs, you can consult a veterinarian to see if probiotics or other gut health supplements need to be added.

Watching the relaxed and cheerful appearance of the dog finally defecating smoothly, the owner's heart will also relax. The process of constipation care is actually an opportunity for owners and dogs to establish a deeper connection. Every gentle abdominal massage, every carefully prepared bite of food, conveys unspoken love. In this process, we not only solved the current problem, but also learned how to better understand and take care of this silent family member. Remember, timely professional advice is always the wisest choice when it comes to health issues. Your careful observation and quick response are often the most important guarantees for the health of your beloved dog.