Skip to main content

How to make a dog poop quickly when dealing with constipation – at-home remedies

Safe and effective ways to help a dog beat constipation

A person in a black T-shirt and jeans walks a small white and brown dog on a path lined with tall plants with yellow flowers
Delphine Beausoleil / Unsplash

Ah, the glamours of pet parenthood. Poop bags and potty training — it all becomes a normal part of life, but what happens when your fur baby is battling a bout of constipation? More often than not, it resolves itself after a few days, but if it persists, you may want to step in to help your four-legged friend get things moving again.

Recommended Videos

It may be TMI, but it’s sometimes necessary. There are plenty of foods that will have the desired effect, or you can opt for a gentle supplement, medication, or even lifestyle changes.

Here’s how to make a dog poop quickly — you know, under desperate circumstances. Good luck, and don’t forget the air freshener.

Airedale dog terrier squatting to poop in a grassy field
Jacquie Klose / Shutterstock

These are the ways to make a dog poop quickly — safely and from home

While some remedies are safe to try from home, others should be done only by a veterinary professional — don’t worry, we’ll specify which is which.

Powdered fiber supplements

One over-the-counter solution for canine constipation is a fiber supplement, just like Native Pet’s Organic Pumpkin Fiber Powder. Pumpkin, the main ingredient in this supplement, has a unique combination of fiber and moisture that can relieve both constipation and diarrhea. This is certainly a useful investment if you have a pup with tummy troubles.

If you’re up for a visit to the vet, they can also recommend supplements and medications to make bowel movements more regular — even prescription-strength ones!

Enema

The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that this is a constipation-relief method you should never attempt from home. Canine enemas should always be done under the care of a licensed veterinary professional, as they are quite invasive and sometimes uncomfortable. Even so, they are effective and safe when performed correctly, and may be the most effective option in more severe cases of constipation.

A black and white Staffordshire terrier drinking water from a heart-shaped bowl in the grass
sanjagrujic / Shutterstock

What home remedies can I give my dog for constipation if they don’t need to see the vet?

There are a few things you can do right from home if your dog seems mildly stopped up — no vet appointment required. Here are some to try:

Canned dog food

Surprisingly, the extra moisture in canned dog food can help some pooches re-regulate over time. This probably won’t work overnight, but it can be a convenient and delicious strategy for getting rid of chronic constipation.

Hydration

As mentioned above, moisture and water (whether in food or on its own) are great for the digestive system. Encourage your dog to drink more water if you can, but you can always add a bit of chicken broth to it to entice them. The AKC lists electrolyte supplements as another helpful tool for maintaining hydration. Many pet pharmacies and stores carry supplements so your pup won’t have to wait to feel better. Your vet may be able to recommend a brand over the phone.

Lifestyle changes

Whether constipation was a one-time issue or a recurring problem, ensuring that your furry friend has a regular exercise routine will help prevent this from happening again. Even a daily walk and some playtime will keep everything moving smoothly, if you know what we mean.

A Yorkie pooping in the grass pooping
Pezibear / Pixabay

What foods make dogs poop quickly when they’re constipated?

Since a lack of fiber is a common reason for constipation in canines, foods that contain fiber can help your dog achieve and maintain regular bowel movements.

Prescription dog food

For chronic constipation, your veterinarian may recommend switching your pup to a high-fiber prescription dog food. Always consult your vet before making a choice like this to make sure that you’re switching to the right food for your dog’s needs.

Pumpkin for dogs

Believe it or not, pumpkin has some magical gastrointestinal properties. The gourd itself is high in fiber, but canned pumpkin for dogs contains high amounts of water, too. It can help pups with both diarrhea and constipation — and it’s delicious!

Herbal constipation relief for dogs

If medication isn’t up your alley, there are a few oils, seeds, and herbs that may do the trick. The AKC lists powdered psyllium seeds, fig paste, wheat bran, and olive oil as a few ingredients that can have laxative properties.

Just because a certain ingredient helps people regulate themselves, though, doesn’t mean it will do the same for do —  at least safely. Always check with your veterinarian before adding any new human food to your pooch’s diet, especially if dealing with constipation.

Whatever you decide to try out first, don’t feel discouraged if your dog isn’t all better right away. Even the most effective techniques can take some time. Don’t forget, your vet is always there if you need a hand — no worries.

A portrait of a brown/black dog with floppy ears
Wallace Silva / Pexels

How long can a dog go without pooping?

An otherwise healthy pup without underlying health conditions can go up to 48 hours without pooping. Otherwise, it’s likely a sign of constipation. How regular a dog is varies based on lifestyle and diet. Puppies and dogs with higher metabolisms often poop more than older pets or ones with lower metabolic rates. The size of your animal may also affect frequency and stool appearance.

The key is to figure out your dog’s version of “normal” when it comes to potty habits. Deviations from the norm are bound to happen from time to time, but keep an eye on your pup in these situations. If your dog seems to be in pain or passes a bloody stool, call the vet.

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
Do dogs have periods? What’s normal and what’s not
Everything you need to know about your dog's period
A female Jack Russell terrier lies on her side

Human beings share more commonalities than differences with one another, no matter where they're from, how old they are, or what gender they are. Even so, there are a few life experiences that only females get to live through. Women around the world can commiserate about menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause — to name a few — but human females aren't the only ones who experience these stages of life.
Do dogs have periods? Are the canine heat cycle stages similar to a woman's menstrual cycle? Let's dive into this important health topic so you can learn about canine health and how to support your female dog during heat. Remember, reproductive health is just as essential as any other facet of well-being, so don't shy away from this important topic.

Do dogs have periods?

Read more
What you need to know about dogs with blue eyes
Blue eyes are a rarity that may come with some health risks
Upside down brown dog with blue eyes

Blue-eyed dogs are striking, both because of their vivid irises and because of how rare they are. After all, even though most puppies are born with blue eyes (their irises haven't developed melanin yet), most of them experience eye color changes around 1 month old. And while there’s almost nothing sweeter than staring into the brown eyes of an adoring pet, those dog breeds with blue eyes are, well, a sight to behold.

Whether you're lucky enough to have a blue-eyed dog or are just curious about these gorgeous dogs, read on to discover what causes this beautiful abnormality. We’ll share which dog breeds naturally have blue eyes, why that occurs, and if blue-eyed dogs are at risk for health problems as a result.
What dog breeds have blue eyes?

Read more
7 health problems boxer owners should look out for
Why do boxers have so many health problems? Here are some answers
Boxer dog lying on the sofa looking to the side

When considering different dog breeds to add to your family, it's important to weigh the pros, the cons, and everything in between. You need to consider the breed's size, demeanor, and exercise needs, but one of the most essential topics to research is a dog breed's health.
So what about boxers? These energetic mastiff relatives are famous for their goofy personalities and squished faces, but there's so much more to them than that. Let's dive into common boxer dog breed health issues so prospective dog owners can know what to look out for. With a little research and a trusted veterinarian on your side, you'll be well prepared to care for your new boxer BFF.

Do boxers have many health problems?

Read more