A natural dog constipation remedy may be the perfect treatment for your distended dog. Constipation can be painful, awkward and can lead to further complications if not treated. Most often, constipation is caused by a diet which is low in fiber or high in fat. The digestive system has to work harder in these scenarios, potentially clogging the system and making it difficult to pass stool. There are many natural dog constipation remedies that should clear this up, including the implementation of healthy changes to your dog's diet, long-term addition of fiber, and herbal or home remedies.
Dietary Changes
Poor diet is among the most common causes of dog constipation. Over the long term, it may be necessary to add fiber to your dog's diet. This can be accomplished in a number of ways. One of the best ways to avoid occasional dog constipation is to feed your dog a high-quality diet consisting of foods made with real meat and protein, rather than grains and meat by-products.
A short-term dietary solution, which is also effective and delicious, is to serve your dog canned pumpkin. Canned pumpkin contains a healthy dose of water as well as fiber, and your dog should enjoy the taste. Be sure to serve pure canned pumpkin with no added spices or fillers. Introduce 1 to 5 tablespoons per day, depending upon the size of the dog. Too much fiber can result in other unfavorable conditions.
Home Remedies for Dog Constipation
While constipation can be caused by low fiber, dehydration may also play a key role. Make sure your dog is drinking as much water as possible by filling his bowl with fresh, clean water as often as possible. Intake of sufficient water not only keeps the digestive system regular, but it will contribute to overall well-being, too. Additionally, many household cooking oils can be used as home remedies to clear up dog constipation. An added tablespoon of olive oil or mineral oil to daily feeding should help to ease the bowels.
Herbal Dog Constipation Remedies
Many herbal products contribute to healthy function of a dog's digestive system. Organic herbs and supplements can be purchased at your local health food store, or online. An organic fiber supplement called Psyllium can be added to your dog's routine for an all-natural increase in fiber. Ginger is another herbal remedy that has been shown to relieve dog constipation (as is aloe vera, in very small amounts), mixed with food or water.
Over the Counter Natural Remedies
Many natural dog constipation relief products can now be purchased at pet stores and online. Supplements can be found providing gastrointestinal support, addition of natural digestive enzymes, laxative and inflammation relief. Many of these supplements are comprised of natural and herbal ingredients with no man-made chemicals. The use of herbal blends, homeopathic formulas and flower essences has been tested and proven a natural solution to many conditions causing dog constipation.