My dog is straining to poop and licking his bottom. Is he constipated?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 20 lbs
Hello, what should I do when my dog keeps licking his bottom and has been straining to poop for the last 12 hours? I've looked at his bottom and it looks fine the only thing I can think of is that we gave him some turkey at Thanksgiving dinner. Help?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 25th, 2017
You could try giving him some canned pumpkin or medical grade liquid parafin as laxatives but if the straining does not resolve after a further 12hours he should be seen by a vet to rule out a complete obstruction - xrays may be required and in some cases enemas or even surgery is required, especially if fragments of bone become lodged
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 5th, 2017
Hello. If he is straining (trying) to poop but nothing is coming out, he could have constipation. Often you get diarrhea around constipation. If he is very frequently trying to poop and only small volumes of liquid coming out each time then he could also just have a gastritis. I would recommend continuing with chicken (boneless/skinless/boiled) and rice(boiled) diet as long as he is happy and bright and eating. If he has a sore abdomen, doesn't want to eat, or is vomiting I would get him to a vet ASAP. Good luck with Higgins.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 30th, 2018
You can try to add some fiber to his diet such as canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) or psyllium seed husk. This should help with retaining fluid in the feces and bulk them up and help eliminate them. Also make sure Zephyr drinks plenty of water and is fed a good quality puppy food for large dogs.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 16th, 2017
It sounds like Mya could be constipated. Constipation can be caused by anal sac impaction, intestinal parasites, a foreign body, too little fiber in the diet, lack of exercise, or even tumors in the GI tract. I recommend giving her a tablespoon of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) mixed in with her food to see if that helps. If she is still constipated in 24-48 hours, she will need to see a vet as she will likely need a laxative or an enema. Your vet can diagnose the cause of the constipation as well.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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