What to Do if Dog Is Not Pooping

Adrienne is a certified dog trainer and former veterinarian assistant who partners with some of the best veterinarians worldwide.

Learn about the potential causes of constipation in dogs, and review some home remedies you can discuss with your veterinarian.

Image by Alexey Zakakurin from Pixabay

Is My Dog Constipated?

You may notice that your dog is straining to produce a bowel movement. Is this constipation? Most dogs normally poop at least one or two times a day. Chances are that if your dog strains and has a dry, firm bowel movement, this means your dog is not having normal stools and you are truly dealing with a case of constipation.

This article will examine some of the possible causes of your dog's constipation and go over some home remedies that you may discuss with your veterinarian.

Symptoms of Constipation in Your Dog

Symptoms of constipation in your dog include:

• Straining to defecate
• Hard, dry stools
• Absent or infrequent stools

The cure for constipation will depend on the cause. Some cases may be treated with natural home remedies, while others may need immediate attention from a vet.

The most worrisome cases are those where dogs develop other symptoms along with constipation. It's easy for an attentive owner to diagnose constipation, but it's not easy to diagnose the underlying cause.

When to See the Vet

When constipation is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting, it needs attention; visit a vet as soon as possible. In fact, any time your dog exhibits a symptom that does not go away, appears unexplainable, or is accompanied by other symptoms and pain, please drive him to a vet or emergency center the same day. In simple words, when in doubt, get on route!

Lack of Bowel Movements Caused by Tenesmus

If your dog strains throughout the day and produces no bowel movement, this is technically called "obstipation," the inability to produce a bowel movement, which is of more concern than just constipation.

Keep in mind, though, that when your dog strains and strains and produces nothing, his problem may also be tenesmus, not constipation. Tenesmus means the dog has had diarrhea and is attempting to pass stool, but the bowels are empty, so nothing comes out.

Since the root cause of the symptoms is diarrhea or colitis, it would require an entirely different treatment plan.

Causes for Constipation That Will Respond to Home Treatment

• Diet is a common cause. Your dog may just simply need a little extra fiber. As a home remedy, you can try to add one to two teaspoons of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to the dog's food. This helps keep things moving. Pun intended!
• Dogs that do not drink enough may get a little constipated now and then.
• Dogs that are not exercised enough may get constipated. Just as in humans, lack of exercise may slow down the system.
• Post-surgery obstipation is fairly common, because the dog fasts the night before surgery and is likely to refuse food afterward. The dog should relieve himself as soon as he is eating a regular diet, taking pain meds, and somewhat recovered.

Depending on what's causing your dog's constipation, you may be able to help relieve it at home.

Home Remedies That Might Ease Your Dog's Constipation

If the cause of your dog's constipation is one of the above, then it may respond to these home therapies. Please discuss these with your veterinarian before beginning treatment and to rule out more serious causes of constipation (see below).

• Bran. Some people have had success in adding bran to dog food.
• Metamucil. Add a sprinkle of Metamucil to canned food only, and with plenty of water, because Metamucil soaks up water. Use only if prescribed by a veterinarian, and be sure it is xylitol-free.
• Plain pumpkin (not the pie mix with spices) may help a constipated dog get some healthy fiber.
• Milk or dairy products can relieve constipation in dogs that are lactose-intolerant. However, if you provide too much, the opposite problem will shortly arise! See Home Remedies for Dog Diarrhea should this occur.
• Adding some moisture to dry dog food may help. A few teaspoons of water added to kibble should suffice.
• Medications such as docusate sodium (Colace) or Lactulose may be prescribed by your vet to help soften stools.
• Enemas. Your vet may tell you how to give a homemade enema of warm, soapy water. DO NOT give dogs over-the-counter enemas meant for humans; they may be toxic to pets and do more harm than good.
• Exercise can get the bowels moving.
• Water. Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water. Consider investing in a water fountain. Extreme cases of constipation may require a vet to give IV fluids.
• Changing a senior dog's lifestyle can fend off constipation. Try adding extra fiber, or putting your dog on a senior diet, which contains more fiber. Check labels for fiber content. Always provide fresh water as senior dogs sometimes do not drink enough. For older dogs, try two short walks a day, as opposed to a single long, tiring walk.

Medical Causes That Are Likely to Require a Vet's Attention

Of course, there are many causes of constipation that need to be given attention by a veterinarian.

• Obstruction by a foreign object. It's possible that something your dog ate is obstructing his intestine. If your dog is a known foreign-object eater, you should keep an eye out for the signs of an intestinal obstruction: He strains, but produces either no stool or only a little diarrhea, and he vomits and can't keep food down. Diarrhea doesn't mean he doesn't have an obstruction; sometimes some liquid feces make it through around an object blocking the gut. If your dog loves ingesting rocks, buttons, coins, or simply anything he can find, and the above symptoms seem all too familiar, then a prompt vet visit is required. X-rays will confirm whether some object is causing the obstruction. Emergency surgery may be needed, so the sooner you find out, the better.
• Obstruction from other causes. Even if If your dog does not have a "vacuum cleaner" reputation, if he has the symptoms above, have him seen anyway, as there are other medical problems that could block the passage of stools, such as polyps, tumors, intestinal intussusception, or an enlarged prostate.
• Blockage in the anus or rectum. Sometimes the issue is a bit farther down the road. Rectal abscesses, fistulas, prolapse, or an anal tumor may be the contributing factor. Check the area for any abnormalities, and have a vet check the area since many times the problem may not be readily seen.
• Endocrine conditions, such as hypothyroidism or parathyroid disorders may cause constipation. A regular thyroid level test may be helpful to rule these conditions out.
• Parasites such as whipworms may cause constipation. Have your dog's stool checked for parasites. The stool sample needs to be no more than 12 hours old.
• Neurological damage, due to trauma, spinal cord disease, or other problems, may disrupt the nerves that control bowel movements.
• Pain in the hindquarters—for example, from hip dysplasia, back problems, or tail problems—may make a dog reluctant to empty the bowels.
• Medication side effects may trigger constipation. Diuretics, antihistamines, and antacids may be the culprits. Read the medication's label carefully and see if constipation is listed as a side effect.
• Megacolon. Dogs with frequent bouts of constipation may become prone to megacolon, or a distended large intestine. This condition is irreversible (unless surgery is performed) and requires frequent enemas and trips to the vet to empty the bowels manually. This can be painful and very inconvenient.

Wishing Your Pet Good Health!

Hopefully, this article has been helpful for you to understand what may be causing your dog's constipation. Just to reiterate, if you have any serious concerns about your pet, please see a vet.

Read More From Pethelpful

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author's knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Questions & Answers

Question: My dog hasn't had a bowel movement today and I can hear her stomach sound like it is digesting food. She has been doing a bow-like action with her butt in the air as if this may help with the discomfort, any suggestions?

Answer: You are describing the 'praying position" which indicates some quite severe abdominal pain. At this point, seeing the vet is the best option. It can be due to a case of pancreatitis, where digestive enzymes start digesting the pancreas itself or a blockage just to name a few. Best to play it safe and see the vet.

Question: My six-month-old chihuahua has trouble pooping. When he poops it is just a little drop or two of liquid poop. He won't eat dog food. He eats meat and I gave him wet cat food and he ate it. His butt looks a little swollen and when I tried to use a warm towel to wipe around it, he reared around and acted like he was in pain. I gave him some milk because I was told to give him that to help with the pooping, but it's still liquid. What should I do?

Answer: I am afraid you are dealing with diarrhea rather than constipation. Dogs suffering from diarrhea as it happens with colitis, tend to develop diarrhea which starts in large amounts and then gradually, less and less liquid poop is produced. The dog may strain and just produce a bit of diarrhea each time. This is called "tenesmus." There may be mucus and blood mixed in the liquid poop. The foods you are feeding are likely making matters worse. I would recommend a vet visit since he seems to be uncomfortable and it sounds like he is in pain. Sometimes when a dog has repeated diarrhea, the anal sacs that are present on either side of the anus become full swollen, reddened and painful.

Question: Why has my dog not pooped for three days since we moved to a new house?

Answer: Your dog may feel stressed from the disruption of his/her regular routines or he or she may be frightened about the novelty of the new place. Walks can help move things along and try to stick to your dog's usual routines (feed at the same time, provide him with things that remind him of home (his bed, his water bowl etc).

Question: My dog hasn't pooped in 2 days and has vomited as well. She tries to go, but nothing is happening. She had a bone 4 days ago, was restless 2 days ago. Now she's just not her normal self. I have tried puking, giving fresh, boiled and mashed in her food, she hardly ate it. Lots of fresh water everywhere, gave her milk to help. Nothing is helping, what do I do?

Answer: Hi there, the symptoms you are describing sound concerning. Since there's a history of eating a bone, I am worried about a possible blockage. Of course, we won't know until we have her tested. I know with the whole COVID-19 situation, it is scary to go out, but seeing a vet for a sick dog is a necessity, so most likely in your area you're allowed to go, especially if you're heading towards an emergency vet. I would give your vet a call and see whether they suggest bringing her in and if so, make sure to wear a mask, gloves and practice social distancing as much as possible. Here is info about blockages in dogs; https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Symptoms-of-intestinal...

Question: My dog does not want to eat her dog food unless it has soft dog food in it. Could there be something wrong with her?

Answer: It's always good to have her checked out by a vet if this is a new behavior. Your dog may have dental problems or may not be feeling too well. On the other hand, many dogs, once they have tasted canned food, don't want to go back to eating dry or may refuse to eat dry unless it's topped with some canned food just because they like canned food too much! To put ourselves in their place, it's like getting a sundae with chocolate sauce and a cherry for weeks and then, one day, out of the blue, the chocolate sauce and cherry go missing. Many of us would be very upset in such a case and will likely complain to the server. If the server tops our sundae with our favorite toppings readily upon complaining, granted, we will complain more in the future if the same mishap happens again. Your dog may have gotten so used to the canned food topping that now she refuses it when it's missing, and waits for you to add it. In such as case, she has trained you well!

Question: I have been feeding my puppy pork sausage, can that cause constipation?

Answer: Pork sausage is more likely to cause diarrhea rather than constipation due to its content in fat especially if this is a new food your puppy wasn't fed before. The next question is: is your puppy really having constipation or is it actually a case of diarrhea with tenesmus?

Tenesmus is basically straining with only little bits of diarrhea being produced. It's important to distinguish the two because treatment of diarrhea and constipation are completely different.

Question: My dog has been to the vet for the last two days. He ate lasagna and got really sick. The first day they gave him a shot for fluids and a special pet food. On the second day he had bad diarrhea with bloody stool so they checked him again and gave him an antibiotic and a pill for nausea. They told me to give him bland rice and chicken home made. I did small amounts and now he has not gone poop all day. Not sure what to do?

Answer: If your dog has been having diarrhea and hasn't pooped, it's likely there isn't much food left in the stomach to form a stool yet. The chicken and rice may also bind him up a bit. Usually, they should be back to pooping in a day or two. See your vet though if you notice any worrisome signs in the meanwhile. Best wishes for a quick recovery!

Question: My dog is having trouble pooping after surgery, what is the best treatment for this?

Answer: This is not unusual. Many dogs do not poop for the first 4 to 5 days after surgery. Dogs may not poop after surgery because dogs are not as mobile, then anesthesia may affect motility and dogs are often given pain medications (opioids) that may slow the gut. Not to mention, they have fasted prior, so there is not enough food to form enough stools. When I worked for the vet, and we had such calls, we would advise that, as long as the dog is eating/ drinking and not showing any signs of discomfort, then there should not be any major concern. According to MedVet, canned plain pumpkin (not the one for making pumpkin pie with spices) can be fed at a dose of 1 tablespoon per 50 pounds of weight twice daily. Of course, contact your vet if your dog seems to be in discomfort or hasn't produced any stools after five days.

© 2008 Adrienne Farricelli

Xochitl on August 19, 2020:

My shih tzu isn't trying to poop and hasn't pooped all day. Is she constipated? She usually goes twice a day in the morning and evening.

Donald Scott on May 24, 2020:

I gave my shih tzu dog some cheese curd, what can i give her to help her to go pooh

Pooja on May 08, 2020:

Hey.. Pooja here.. Ma dog is suffering from reactal prolapse.. Today only it has been poped out.. Wht can i do for that

Stephanie on January 10, 2020:

My shih Tzu hasn't eaten or drank on his own for a week. We're syringe feeding Royal Canin Recovery and Pedialyte. He's been to the vet twice with the most recent two days ago. They gave him two enemas. What can we do to get him over this hump and eating and drinking on his own again?

Dan on November 28, 2019:

My dog hasn't pooped for a couple days, and seems like she has trouble walking with her back legs

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on November 25, 2019:

Jana,your vet is the best person to ask this as there may be various causes of constipation in dogs. It's good though that your dog is eating well!

Jana on November 08, 2019:

My dog had been constipated for a day and half and then passed stool once. Its been 2 days since, and he hasnt passed stool for a whole day and doesn't show signs of wanting to poop or abdominal pain. There is no swelling and his appetite is good too. I don't understand what the problem is. Please help!

Susan Jaynes on January 13, 2019:

My dog has been constipated for two days.ive given him canned pumpkin with his food but still can't poop.he is a little bloated.what else can I do

tianna Rodriguez on October 24, 2018:

My puppy maybe 1 and 1/2 years old was throwing up then had diarrhea now making some awful sound when tried to poop but nothing comes out and his back arched and walking funny help me plz I can't take to get I'm beyond broke

Susan on August 13, 2018:

Month old puppy lays around and only eats here and there. Only one bowel movement today. Been bottle feeding since birth

Jane Gibson on July 06, 2018:

I have a 8 year old jack Russell and all he is doing is licking his mouth and shaking please tell me what you think.

stella on June 14, 2018:

i have a toy podle the poop is at the butt hole but wont come out, not sure what to do

Miriam Worley Head from Harrisburg NC on February 09, 2018:

My pomeranian is 20 years old and is constipated.

Will coconut oil be good? She will not eat pumpkin anymore. Or should I try a little milk?

Sharika on February 01, 2018:

My dog he is small but he can't booboo it's like it's stick I can see it but it won't come out it's real hard and it hurts him

JoAnn on December 27, 2017:

My dog very suddenly got very sick, became lethargic followed by vomiting and diarrhea. She won't move around at all now and has no appetite. Her stomach is very tight and she is in a lot of pain. She hasn't pooped at all now for a couple of days. She is drinking a lot of water. I am very concerned. This is very unusual behavior for her? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Cat on November 12, 2017:

You guys need to read up natural remedies.

Coconut oil (small amts)

Omega3 Oil

Probiotics

Feed your dogs some cooked boneless chicken

So many things you can do to prevent this!

Make sure you are educated on your breeds and their diets and lots of exercise you guys!!! Take care of your pets.

Cloud9petsupplies on November 10, 2017:

Noticed a straining in your dog while they try to produce a bowel movement? Think that it's constipation? This blog presents a vet-approved home remedies for dog constipation problem. It is of great help. This article examines some of the possible causes of your dog's constipation and provides some home remedies that you can discuss with your veterinarian.

Star on November 01, 2017:

My dog had 9 puppies 4 weeks and 4 days ago and one of the puppies can't poop, what can I do?

Rose Moore on October 25, 2017:

Just rescued 8 weeks old pit/wolf pup.. So sad had him last 4days . He hasnt eaten anything last 2days. I think he's constipated. What shall I do???

Delsey on September 08, 2017:

So i was away and family watched my red nose pitbull shes about 2 years old . they fed her pork rib bones shes now constipated what can i do?.. I just got laid off and cant afford the vet

Jan on March 30, 2017:

My Yorkshire terrier pup of 7 Months old does not drink adequate water and his stools are quite hard, he gets plenty of exercise and seems quite healthy. I have even tried spoon feeding him water but he is not that interested. What should I do.

Thank you

Revere bigham on March 24, 2017:

My 14 year old has a heart murmur and possible swelling near liver which makes digestion. He tried 4 times to poop and can't. He is under care but it is after hours. Can I give

Him milk? He loves it. Please help now.

Nicole on February 08, 2017:

We just recently moved into a new home my 8yr old has not popped for two days now. I think its the new yard and she's not comfortable yet. Now I believe she is constipated

Ashley Garcia on January 13, 2017:

I recently adopted a 1 yr old Carolina dog. She is normally on schedule with her bathroom breaks...But today she has had slight diarrhea and only one bowel movement. She also seems extra calm. She has some gas that is extremely toxic.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 18, 2016:

Deanna, signs of constipated dogs generally include lethargy, straining to defecate and the most obvious absence of bowel movement. Most dogs will poop at least one or two times a day.

Deanna on December 18, 2016:

Can you tell us any signs? Like how dogs act if they are constipated.

Veronica on September 05, 2016:

I have boxer mix don't know look like massifs He is 6 years old have not had bowel movement in 3 days my son said he thought he seen worms in his stool when he went days ago. I got him some deworming medicine give it to him also give him moist good and some oil how long should I wait. Before I see him have a bowel movement. Or is ther something else should I do.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on August 24, 2016:

It could be she's not feeling like going being in a new place. Are you sure though she's not going somewhere in the house?

Betty Ross on August 20, 2016:

I was just given 5 lb. 6 yr. old Maltese yorkie female. She is adorable. In 6 days she has had 2 bowel movements. Is that normal? She seems fine, doesn't eat much, definitely a lap dog. Could she be constipated?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on August 08, 2016:

Marijan markovski, You must have not read the whole article, there are countless natural treatments for dog constipation and the video of the vet suggests several too.

Marijan Markovski on August 08, 2016:

you just written the symptoms not a solution for my problem!

Connie on August 06, 2016:

My 6mth poddle has had white chalk like stool what can i give her to help

Mia on January 29, 2016:

Anyone...we found a tiny mini dog ..she was a mangy mess. Not taken care,of at all.. Emaciated ,,not sure what she was eating.. She doesnt know dog food.. Qe think whoever had her fed her ppl,food and did not have a very good diet.

Its been days since she has pooped. Im sort a freaking out. Ive never had or been around a mini tiny dog before. I have no clue what is normal whats not in some dog this small.. About 1.5lbs.. Not kidding at all.. My son said she is smaller than a rabbit... Cotton tail.. I,say the size of a kitten.

Anyone have any idea if worms couls cause her to poop less than a normal dog..

She was reluctant to get off my couch to drink.. I was bringing the bowl to her, but she is drinking now on her own.

Last time she pooped it looked like runny chocolate and no i didnt give het any chocolate.. I do have horses and i vet both.

Ive raised snakes too, so im not some moron or idiot. Ive just never even seen a dog in person this small. Ive raised cats, 5 pups in my life and ive never seen or heard of anything like this.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on July 31, 2015:

For intestinal blockages (if that's what you are dealing with) there is nothing you can really do at home if there are already symptoms and so much time has passed. Since your dog is holding his back arched and walking oddly it could be he has abdominal pain. I would play it safe and see the vet. At times, dogs will pass the sock or vomit it back up, but since you are seeing troublesome symptoms you should call your vet and ask for advise.

melissa on July 31, 2015:

hi my 3yr old pit bull hasn't had a bowl movement in two days and last night i think he ate a sock he was playing with because this morning he was barely walking and when he did he was on his tippy toes and his back was arched like an ally cat! his he in seroius danger and is there anything i can do for him at home without having to take him in to the vet?

Melody on July 23, 2015:

Ryan, have you tried plain canned pumpkin yet? Make sure your dog drinks a lot, and try taking her on walks and look for places frequented by other dogs if your dog is vaccinated.

Ryan on July 23, 2015:

I have a 6 year old blue tick beagle that is not having bowle movements has been taking antibiotics and pain meds started stool softener 2 days ago and still no bowel movement what can I do for her

Dillard on June 09, 2015:

Sally and Bonnie, have your read the article? Bernie, it's not surprising your dog has constipation, you have fed your dog a diet meant to be fed for diarrhea! Rice and chicken will firm up the stools,and while the pumpkin can help for constipation ,the rice will probably not make it effective. You can try walking her, but if she is sick she should really see the vet.

Bernie on June 08, 2015:

correction to my above question. My 5 month old Chihuahua is 2.5 pounds not 20 have pounds.

Bernie on June 08, 2015:

I have a five month old Chihuahua 20 half pounds she wasn't eating and her stomach was gargling. She hadn't pooped and seemed constipated.so I gave her white rice and boiled chicken with some pure Punkin from the pet store and she still hasn't pooped for 24 hrs. She ate up the rice chicken and pumpkin (3xday)but still hasn't pooped. She pees a lot and the seems more active now but still no poop.

bonnie on June 07, 2015:

My yorkie is 12lbs and 8yrs old what can I give her to help her poop she is so bloed

sally on June 03, 2015:

My dog ate some mixed nuts and is not wanting to go poop today what to do to help him with this

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on April 18, 2015:

Anytime a vet prescribes something and you notice new symptoms or not getting better, it's best to give the vet a call. The vet has your file, the condition your dog was treated for and the dosages. He knows best what may be going on and if this is a side effect from the medication and if there is more to it. If his office is open today, don't be shy to give a call so you're not stuck on the weekend worrying. Vets don't charge for these calls as they're followups to the appointment.

Amber on April 18, 2015:

My dog has been sick this week and I did take her to the vet who said she had a fever. He did bloodwork and said it was ok but he put her on two different antibiotics anyway because he was concerned. She began to perk back up after about 30 hours and has been barking and playing some but she is still not really eating much and it has been 72 hours. She has urinated some but no bowel movement. Also she appears to be wheezing on and off which she has never done before. She is a 7 pound chihuahua mix. Should I be concerned or give the meds more time?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on March 04, 2015:

Please see the video in the article. The vet suggests some home remedies for dog constipation, but of course, see your vet if your dog acts lethargic or abnormal in any way.

Cynthia on March 04, 2015:

It seem my dog is constipated what can i give him

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on January 04, 2015:

See your vet please, there's nothing to do at home if you're dealing with a blockage.

Nathapct on January 03, 2015:

Hello, its just after Christmas, my dog has eaten a ham bone, and now its stuck what can I do?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 29, 2014:

I m sorry, there's not much you can really do. Puppies aren't supposed to be lethargic and the other symptoms seem concerning, you need to have them checked by your vet.

LaTonya on December 28, 2014:

Hello,

My puppies (Yorkies 11 months) have pooped once in the 7 days we have been in IL. Normally they both poop at least three to four times a day...My male puppy is constipated we are currently miles away from out vet and I missed pets mart today but I think I might take them there tomorrow.... Both if my puppies have vomited once since being here in, thier good intake is picking up and I make sure they have room temperature water all day...however they are not as active as normal and both of them got a hold of about 6 reeces cups that we left on the table when we return yup you know it they were gone and nothing bit wrapers were left....Coild this be the problem if so what should I do for the remained time we are here? Please help me...

Lilly on December 18, 2014:

I often use pumpkin, and it usually takes 24 hours to see results. However, if your dog is recovering from heartworm disease very likely he is on a low exercise regimen, so the constipation may be more challenging. Your vet may have medications to help him out. I would consult with your vet if your dog still appears constipated.

heartworm treated on December 18, 2014:

After our shih tzu had his first shot of his second treatment he had trouble expressing himself. We called the humane Society and they said give him pumpkin and if nothing by tomorrow bring him in. How lomg does it take pumpkin to work and should i try to do anything to ease his pain? He os on prenisone and we jave given hom pumpkin. He is surprisingly walking around aome and not barking and he is rating. Anyone help would be appreciated

melhai on November 21, 2014:

Hi my dog is not pooping for almost 4days since we move in,in our new house but he is fine. Regular peeing and exercising.but still no sign that he wants to poop. Can you please help me.thanks in advance.

Mary on September 25, 2014:

Sometimes, the opposite problem can present when giving a bland diet, and the dog gets a bit constipated with the rice,but it could also be there's not enough food in her system as with all the diarrhea and fast, and once-a-day feeding for 2 days has not allowed much poop to form. Why not try giving plain pumpkin which can help out?

tracy on September 25, 2014:

My dog is 2 years old mini pin. Last weekend she had diarrhea for 2 days. So I with held food for 12 hours an gave her cooked ground Turkey an rice once a day for 2 days. Now she hasn't pooped in the last 3 days. She doesn't even act as tho she has to go.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on September 14, 2014:

Sounds like she was impacted, which can happen when the dog doesn't eliminate for a while such as after a surgery or when there is pain. The stools get hard and dry which makes them difficult to pass. Good to hear she went potty this morning. It's still concerning though that she isn't responding to the antibiotics. I would let your vet know. It's his/her call if he/she thinks you should continue or change antibiotic.

JP on September 14, 2014:

Hello,

The vet said there were no stones or foreign object only a big hard feces that she was having trouble passing. I am currently giving her two pills of Clavomox a day, for two weeks. I'm almost done with a week treatment and not seeing a difference in the incontinence. She wets her bed or has an accident at least two to three times a day despite me taking her out every few hours. She did have a bowel movement this morning, so I'm glad about that. I'll continue to give her mirolax until she is on regular pooping schedule. Thanks for the prompt response by the way.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on September 13, 2014:

I am concerned about the symptoms you are seeing.Did the vet rule out an intestinal blockage? I would seek the opinion of another vet. The dribbling if caused by a UTI should have been getting somewhat better after 3 days on the antibiotics. Did you give the full course? They need to be given for as long as instructed. If it's still continuing despite being on them for some time, it could be another type of antibiotic is needed. Your vet should be consulted on his. Pooping a little bit is better than nothing, but sometimes in blockages, a little liquid diarrhea makes it through the blockage, so this is something to consider. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

JP on September 13, 2014:

Hi,

My Dachshund was spayed couple of weeks ago. When I brought her home after the surgery, she was 'dribbling.' She couldn't hold her bladder in the house either (she is house broken). I took her to a vet and she was given antibiotics for UTI. I didn't see any difference at all in the incontinence so I took her back to the vet and they performed a urnialysis and did xrays. I was told she had hard stool that needed to be passed so I was told to give her Miralax and soft canned food twice a day. Needless to say, It hasn't made any difference yet and it has been three days. She pooped once yesterday (diarrhea like but not a lot) and hasn't gone at all today. She eats fine, doesn't drink water like she used to so I usually mix her food with water. She is still dribbling and I'm not sure what else I can do to help her constipation.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on May 29, 2014:

Let's hope it doesn't happen. In the 7 years I have owned my dogs I have yet to see them constipated. They are on a very good diet that is worth every cent.

BODYLEVIVE from Alabama, USA on May 29, 2014:

Great article! I've never seen my two dogs ever having a hard time. If I ever do, you've given me the ammo to handle the situation, thanks.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on May 24, 2014:

What color were the stools? If your pup is straining to pass stools and they look pasty, a spoon full of plain pumpkin with no spices added to the dog's food can help keep bowels hydrated and feces soft enough to pass. If the stools are of a yellow pasty consistency, I would have him checked for giardia, if they are pasty and light colored, this may indicate a too-rapid transit from the small intestine to the colon. If he had worms, a fecal test is recommended about 2 to 4 weeks later to ensure there are gone, even if you no longer see them.Just throwing out some possibilities. I would check with the vet to play it safe.

lacara henry on May 24, 2014:

My shih-Tzu was born march 18, and he had worms but I've treated them and he no longer has them. But his bowel movement has changed, he's still going twice a day but it's more like paste. I've also changed his dog food, but he still drinks a lot of water and he's very active. I was wondering since his bowel movement is like a paste, does this means he's constipated?

Bill Aikman on May 11, 2014:

What to do if a Shih-Tzu dog becomes constipated? They are so small, so does the same apply for them? You can see my pup in my hub :)

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on January 12, 2014:

Sounds like good news! Definitively that patch on his back may have an impact, I hope he's on his way to recovery soon, best wishes!

MissPhedora on January 12, 2014:

Thank you for your quick reply and article referral (our pets are everything!)! We just returned from outside and yet another attempt produced a bit more. It appears to me that the stapled patch is holding him back from relaxing and fully "assuming the position". After reading quite a few of your past articles, it confirms my questioning why my vet did not take an xray, mri or something to confirm that it is his back. Again, thank you (and yes, I will start stocking Pumpkin). Your site is wonderful and I will inform all my pet owners!

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on January 12, 2014:

Yes, pain can play a role in this, especially since it's his back being involved. I would ask your vet about this though, just to make sure. There are sometimes chances it can be neurological (but most likely, if that's the case, you would see a drunk-like gait and signs of paralysis), but since you mentioned he already pooped a bit, I would assume that's a good sign. Here is a person in a similar situation, but note in this case the dog wasn't peeing as well. http://www.justanswer.com/pet-dog/1pcgo-when-conce...

MissPhedora on January 12, 2014:

My 14 year old Beagle, Al, pulled a nerve or pinched one in his back. Boy, was he loud...howling and shaking in pain. Scared the hell out of me! Took him into the vet and they gave him a morphine shot (I believe two) and he ate a plain food. The vet kept him for 10 hours, called it an emergency, and $500 dollars later, Al is home with a "pain patch" on his back (that is stapled on!). I have taken it easy with him, walking slow and taking him out without steps. Al always relieves himself in the morning and night, sometimes during the day too. He started to poop, but only one very little ball and nothing since. It looked normal. Its been two days and no poop. He has been drinking water and I have cut down, but fed him at his normal times except for today. Still no poop. Is this normal due to the trama and meds he was on? Regrettably, I am due to leave on a mandatory business trip in four days and want to get Al as normal a possible for the sitter. Thanks for you help.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 13, 2013:

This books gives pumpkin dosages: http://books.google.com/books?id=LIZ-gkLeXEkC&...

Art on December 12, 2013:

My Choc. Lab is 6 years old and is having trouble going , he trys but very little comes out, this has been going on since yesterday, How much pumpkin should i give an 85lb. lab to give him the proper fiber he may need ?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 11, 2013:

Ideally, should be solid, but it may be he's still recovering, and it's starting to bulk up. Did your vet recommend a bland diet or a bland food? If it continues ask him what can be done and if more testing is needed to get to the root of the problem, best wishes!

Elwin on December 10, 2013:

Lol yeah thats true. But its mushy and like a medium dark brown color. Is that good?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 10, 2013:

Yay! Isn't it funny how seeing a dog poop makes worried dog owners so happy! Been there and done the happy dance several times for seeing dogs pooping!

Elwin on December 10, 2013:

Good news! The vet had his nurse called me back and they said don't be concern if he hasn't pooped yet because he was throwing up a lot on Saturday and was dehydrated that it will take a couple of days for him to poop. He didn't really have diarrhea much except for Sunday when he let out a lot of watery brownish red stool.. That was all he did. But he is on meds, cerenia for throwing up, anti Vite (I think is for vitamins) and claravox (which I think is an anibotic) and he is also eating canned gastrointestinal I.d dog food.. But even better news is, he finally pooped.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 10, 2013:

Plain pumpkin (not the pie filler with spices, just plain) can sometimes help, but it's best to ask your vet first before trying home remedies just to see if he has any ideas what could be causing this. I wonder if he put your dog on any meds to help the stools firm or if you were told to give rice which firms up stools, or if it's just that his bowels were "cleaned out" and haven't had a chance to form stool yet since he has been having vomiting and diarrhea.

Elwin on December 10, 2013:

Called the animal clinic we take Peanut too and I been waiting for an hour and 10 mins.. They said he wasnt in yet when I called. I'm a little worried.. Peanut been acting normal, barking, eating, drinking water, jumping off the bed now. But he still hasn't pooped.. Idk what it can be.. Should I give him something to go?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 09, 2013:

If the vet didn't seem concerned and your dog has stopped vomiting and seems better, one would assume he would be on his way to recovery. Here's a person in a similar situation: http://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/6qxx0-dog-vom...

Elwin on December 09, 2013:

Yeah I did... He didn't really say anything about it.. If he stopped throwing up the yellow bile with the black specks, would that be normal?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 09, 2013:

Yellow bile is vomited when the stomach is empty, the black specks can be worrisome though if it resembles coffee grounds, because that can be digested blood, which can come from an ulcer. But it also could be something he ingested....did you mention the black material your dog vomited to the vet?

Elwin on December 09, 2013:

Thank you for replying back, hearing that makes me feel a bit better.. I'm a worry wart. He is like a big brother to my kitten that I found about 3 weeks ago.. I woke up this morning to both Peanut and Peach(my kitten) sleeping side by side.. It is just werid how on Friday he was just fine and Saturday comes around.. And he was throwing up yellow bile with black specs in it and yesterday before we took him to the vet he threw up one more time smelly white fem

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on December 09, 2013:

Seems like he's on his way to recovery if he is keeping food down, give it some time for him to poop, after all, he had vomiting and watery diarrhea, so not much left in the stomach to digest and form new stools. Temperature in dogs is between 101 and 102.5 F, so that looks good. Don't hesitate to contact your vet if you notice any other symptoms, but so far looks good! Good luck with Peanut!

Elwin on December 09, 2013:

On Saturday my 5 year old Daschund, Peanut was throwing up all day at least 5-10 times with at least maybe half an hour between them and even after drinking water. We took him to the vet yesterday.. They said he is dehydrated and wanted to keep him til they close to give him iv fiulds.. We only had enough for the second option which they gave him a shot of anti nuasea medicine called ceneria and a shot of vitamins and gave him gasto i.d dog food. So we go home.. About maybe 3 hours later he started to poop and it was very watery/loose it was also a wine type of color redish brown.. So we took the sample of it back to the vet and they ran test for parvo and worms.. They both came back negative. Paid $80 for both tests and medicine called claravox. We gotta give him ceneria everyday until finished 30 mins before he eats, the vitamin medicine we gotta give him it twice a day, claravox twice a day also. He did pee for the first time yesterday kinda a dark yellow and then maybe a short time or more later he peed again and it was lighter. A few mins ago he peed again and it was lighter than the other times. He hasn't pooped yet... But he is eating a little and drinking water. We are also giving him unflavored pedilyte. I'm still a little worried... I'm just looking for similar stories or some second opinion. His temp yesterday was 99.3 took it today and it was 101.4 so thats good isn't it?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on November 20, 2013:

Sounds like good news! Was it solid? Does he seem like he's feeling better now? I really hope this gave him relief and he's doing better.

john on November 20, 2013:

This morning

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on November 19, 2013:

This can be caused by several problems, an intestinal blockage, a back injury, a pinched nerve, anal gland problems, or an enlarged prostate. When did he poop last time?

john on November 19, 2013:

He is not is that much pain but he looks sad and wants to poop.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on November 19, 2013:

You should see your vet to determine what is causing the problem. Many times it's the anal glands causing problems, but it could be many other problems. Canned pumpkin is helpful for dog constipation, but since your dog is in pain, best to play it safe and see the vet.

john on November 19, 2013:

My dog is whinning and is trying to poop what should I do.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on July 13, 2013:

Makes sense since brown rice has more fiber, great that your dog loves it so much!

ketage from Croatia on July 10, 2013:

Brown Rice, with a little bit of butter for flavoring, he loves it.

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on July 10, 2013:

That's odd, as we often used to recommend rice for the opposite problem- diarrhea! That's interesting though, was it brown rice or white rice?

ketage from Croatia on July 10, 2013:

I have fed my dog rice to relieve his constipation, I am not sure if it will work for all dogs, but it has for mine, I will try pumpkin next time and see if that works as well. thanks for sharing, great hub with a lot of information :)

Colleen on June 28, 2013:

That article gave me the info I needed, thanks!

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on June 28, 2013:

I am not qualified to give nutritional advice and dosages, but this article may be helpful to you:

http://www.barfworld.com/blog/?p=2060

Colleen on June 27, 2013:

I have an English Mastiff that is a hoover. He has already had surgery once to have a sock removed from his intestines. The other day he chewed up a notebook that he took off my desk. He is acting fine; eating, drinking, playing ect. but I think the paper may have bound him up a bit. I do not think he is blocked since the last time he was really sick and he is not acting sick at all this time. He is passing very small amounts and is very gassy. Since he is such a moose can you give me an idea about how much pumpkin I can give him?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on June 05, 2013:

Yay! You took good care of her, kudos to you!

Olivia on June 05, 2013:

I talked to him, and he said it was fine. :) Emmie seems to be a lot better! I'm really glad she's finally getting better. Today she even jumped on the couch! Thank you for all of your help!

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on June 02, 2013:

Best to discuss this with your vet, according to the frontline website:

http://www.frontline.com/Pages/Faq.aspx

Olivia on June 01, 2013:

Also, if my dog is on pain killers can I still give her monthly frontline?

Adrienne Farricelli (author) on May 30, 2013:

Thanks for the update, it's awesome to hear she's doing better, looks like the vet got to the root of the problem this time!

What to Do if Dog Is Not Pooping

Source: https://pethelpful.com/dogs/What-to-do-if-your-dog-is-constipated

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