How will I know if my dog is constipated?
A constipated dog will look like they are trying to poo, there may be liquid or mucus from the anus and redness or swelling around the anus.
It is important to identify whether your dog is trying to pass faeces (poo) or trying to urinate. Unfortunately for many dogs, the signs can be quite similar, making it difficult for a dog owner to be sure what is going on.
If your dog is straining to pass urine, they will adopt a position to pass urine, you may see small amounts of urine or blood around the vulva or penis/sheath and they may lick the area.
What are the signs of constipation in dogs?
Your dog will struggle to poo and will either pass small amounts of hard poo or nothing at all. Your dog may show signs of discomfort or pain and may pass spots of blood. Confusingly, diarrhoea can also lead to your dog straining, but you will normally have seen the evidence of loose or runny poo first.
If left untreated, constipation can lead to lethargy, vomiting, depression and loss of appetite.
