Help! My 4-week-old puppy is constipated. What can I do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 21st, 2021

  Hi, and thanks for your question. Mild constipation that lasts no more than two days can usually be resolved at home with increased fiber and hydration. Canned pumpkin (not pie filling, just the straight-up pumpkin) or liquid paraffin can be used, and should work straight away in the following 8 hours from administration. DO NOT TRY to give an enema as it could be dangerous and cause electrolyte imbalances and colon perforation. If constipation lasts more than 24 hours from administration of those or 48 hours in general, a check up at your local vet is required. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Jenny, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 18th, 2018

  You can try to change to her to boiled chicken and rice and add canned pumpkin or canned greens to add more fiber to her diet and help her go a little easier. If the straining or soft stool continues, then I would have her checked for an infection or parasites. Once this problem is fixed you can transition her back to puppy food. When they are on canned or wet food, they get so much water there they often do not drink much

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Published on October 15th, 2017

  It is possible, although uncommon for puppies to become constipated. More often then not they are straining to defecate because they are having diarrhea/ colitis. They feel like they have to go even though not much is in there. Is he eating? If not I would be very concerned that he may be about to break with parvovirus. If he is vomiting or not eating he needs to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. If he is truly constipated then lots of fluids and long walks can help get the gut moving. Good luck and I hope he improves soon.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful