4 Ways to Prevent Constipation in Dogs

If you're looking to help prevent constipation episodes for your dog, there are a number of different tips and tricks that you can use. Constipation may not be a very severe medical condition in most cases, but it can still cause your pet a great deal of pain and discomfort. Additionally, it is an easily remedied and oftentimes preventable condition that requires little effort on the part of the owner in order to eradicate. Read on for a brief set of common ways that vets recommend to help prevent and treat episodes of constipation in pet dogs.

1. High Fiber Diets for Dogs

High fiber diets are one of the best ways to ensure that your pet doesn't come down with bouts of constipation. Fiber is responsible for providing a solid consistency to your pet's stool, and it also assists in moving your pet's bowels properly. With the help of a high fiber diet, your pet can continue to have regular bowel movements even if there are other potential causes of this condition.

Before you begin to give your dog a high fiber diet, however, it's important to know that changing your pet's diet and his food type may have other unforeseen consequences as well. Always consult with your vet before you plan to give your pet any new type of food. High fiber diets are available through a number of different sources, including pet food stores, veterinary offices and more.

2. Proper Hydration to Prevent Dog Constipation

Hydration is key to keeping your dog's bowels moving properly. If you provide your pet with insufficient fresh water, you run the risk of having him become dehydrated. This is one of the leading types of causes of constipation. Dehydration can also lead to a number of other different types of medical conditions and problems, including others that are more severe as well.

Always have a bowl of fresh and clean water for your pet available to him at all times. Check on it periodically throughout the day in case it needs to be refilled.

3. Exercise to Prevent Constipation

Getting a good amount of exercise can help to improve your pet's digestion and his bowel movements as well. The act of exercising can help to loosen the stool and stimulate bowel motion. Exercise need not necessarily be rigorous in order to achieve this goal: you can meet this requirement by taking your pet on daily walks. In other cases, running or playing with your pet are also great ways to ensure that he gets exercise, which can also help his overall fitness and health.

4. Other Specialty Pet Foods

In addition to high fiber pet foods, some pets suffering from frequent bouts of constipation respond well to pet foods that support alternate grains. Grains of certain types may interact poorly with your particular dog's digestive tract, making it difficult for him to maintain a regular bowel process. Consult with your vet before you switch your pet's food to one of these specialty types.

 

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