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My puppy is shaking in sleep and straining. Could it be constipation?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 9 days old | 5 lbs

My puppy is shocking while sleeping. Only popped one time today. Then it tried to do again later tonight but it started to do some strange sound. What can I do. I think is constipation. It's a siberian month 1/2 old

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 10th, 2016

Poor Bruce. Ok so first off shaking while sleeping is completely normal in puppies and typically is their body reacting to a dream they are having. If this ONLY happens during sleep then I would not worry about this at all. Constipation is pretty uncommon in puppies, however if you notice hard feces or straining to defecate and nothing coming out, then it is possible this is present. Just make sure you puppy isn't straining (tenesmus) due to colitis (inflamed colon), which will cause scant loose stools and frequent trips outside, as opposed to constipation where there is nothing that comes out or only hardened stools. If constipation is confirmed then an enema is the best way to treat this. Increase his water intake by offering him wet canned food or adding water to his dry kibble. Also laxatone (from your local pet store) can help soften his stools and provide a lot of relief for Bruce.

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