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My 4-year-old Bichon strains, has loose stools. Is it obstruction?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Male | neutered | 4 years and 11 months old

My 4 year old bichon Frise is struggling to poop,but is passing small loose stools regularly. He isn't showing any signs of illness,no vomiting,no lethargy,he's very active,still has a healthy appetite and is drinking plenty of water. My concern is whether he has eaten contaminated dog food or if a baby wipe he ate nearly 2 weeks ago is causing an obstruction.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on December 16th, 2016

It's very difficult to know as those symptoms could be caused by either a partial obstruction or a gastrointestinal infection, you will need to take him to the vet to get it checked, if the vet doesn't suspect an obstruction he will start him on an antibiotic course.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 16th, 2016

    It could be that Dudley has a partial blockage from eating the baby wipe, but there could be other causes of him struggling to pass feces include anal sac impaction, intestinal parasites, too little fiber in the diet, lack of exercise, or even tumors in the GI tract. I recommend giving him a tablespoon of canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) mixed in with his food to see if that helps. If he is still constipated in 24-48 hours, he will need to see a vet as he will likely need a laxative or an enema. Your vet can diagnose the cause of the constipation as well.

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