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My older dog has belly pain, gas, and constipation. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 13 years and 9 months old | 50 lbs

My dog Diller,older and mixed breed, is acting like her belly hurts. Seen her in the yard acting like she needs to go but can't. She passed horrible gas. And recently her breathe is bad too. More worried about her belly what could it be and how can I help her. No children and would trade half the people I know for her, my besy friend.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 11th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Diller. If she is straining to have a bowel movement and nothing is coming out it is possible she is constipated, which can be due to a variety of causes including dehydration, ingestion of foreign substances, blockage due to a mass or swelling of another organ in the abdomen, and more. Due to her age I would recommend bringing her into the vet for an exam. They will palpate her belly, do a rectal exam, and may recommend additional testing such as an x-ray. If she is still energetic/eating then you can try giving her a tablespoon or two of canned pumpkin with her food which can help with mild constipation and ensure she is drinking water. If she starts vomiting, becomes weak, or painful if you touch her belly/goes down into a prayer position with her front end down and hind end up in the air, these would be reasons to seek emergency/urgent vet care.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Conditions that can cause abdominal pain include pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, among many other possibilities. If she appears to be in pain, she needs to see a veterinarian. There is nothing that you can do at home to help her without knowing what may be wrong with her. They would be able to check for those possibilities and treat her accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

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