Constipation is difficult, infrequent or absent bowel movements. Constipation is one of the most common health problems associated with a pet’s digestive system.

Most common signs include:

• Dry, hard stools.
• Straining when trying to defecate.
• Mucus when attempting to defecate.

Depending on what’s causing your dog’s constipation, your vet may recommend one or several of the following treatments:

• A stool softener or other laxative agent.
• Medication to increase the contractile strength of the large intestine.
• Adding fiber to your dog’s diet with canned pumpkin, wheat bran or a product such as Metamucil.
• A veterinarian-prescribed, high-fiber diet.
• An increase in exercise.
• An enema (administered by a professional, not at home, as there could be risks for toxicity or injury if done inappropriately).