Written By Dr Pam, Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) with 8+ years of experience in puppy behavior. Reviewed by Dr. Masoud Onsori, DVM, of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
You’re out for a walk with your dog, but instead of their usual quick poop, they’re straining, circling, or—yikes—not pooping at all. If your pup’s bathroom habits are off, they might be constipated.
As a dog lover who’s been through this with my own pup, Max, I know how stressful it can be. Luckily, I’ve gathered the best vet-approved tricks to help you out.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to make a constipated dog poop quickly, plus everyday tips to get your dog pooping faster. Let’s get your furry friend feeling better—fast!
What Is Dog Constipation and Why It Happens
Dog constipation is when your pup struggles to pass stool, or their bowel movements slow way down. Think dry, hard stools or a dog who’s trying hard with no luck. Common causes include dehydration, a low-fiber diet, lack of exercise, or even stress.
In some cases, it’s more serious—like a blockage from swallowing something odd (socks, anyone?). Knowing why your dog’s digestion is stalled is key to fixing it quickly.
Read This How to Potty Train a Puppy: A Veterinarian-Approved Guide to Success
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Constipated
Not sure if constipation’s the culprit? Here’s what to watch for:
- Straining or whimpering while trying to poop.
- Tiny, rock-hard stools—or no poop for over 24 hours.
- Acting restless or uncomfortable.
It’s easy to mix this up with urinary issues, so pay attention. If their tail’s up while they strain, it’s likely a poop problem. If it’s been 48 hours with no action, it’s time to step in. Let’s explore how to make your dog poop quickly with some simple tricks.
Quick Tricks to Make Your Dog Poop Fast
Need your dog to poop pronto—constipated or not? These everyday tips work like a charm:
- Take a Walk After Meals: A brisk 10-minute stroll after eating gets digestion moving. Max always poops faster this way!
- Rub Their Belly: A gentle massage can stimulate their bowels—think of it as a mini spa day.
- Try Warm Water: For non-constipated dogs, a quick squirt of warm water near their rear (wipe it off after) can trigger a poop. Skip this if they’re stressed or constipated, though.
These hacks are perfect for healthy pups with a solid routine. But what if constipation’s already set in? Keep reading for remedies to make a constipated dog poop quickly.
Vet-Approved Home Remedies to Relieve Dog Constipation Fast
When your dog’s constipated, these safe, vet-approved remedies can get their bowels moving fast. Always check with your vet if symptoms stick around, but these are great starting points.
Add Fiber with Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is a dog constipation superhero. It’s loaded with fiber and moisture, softening stools naturally. Try 1-2 teaspoons for small dogs or 1-2 tablespoons for larger breeds. Mix it into their food—most pups gobble it up like a treat!
Boost Hydration with Water or Broth
Dehydration is a big constipation trigger. Get your dog drinking more by adding a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to their water bowl. More hydration means softer stools and easier poops.
Expert Tips by Dr. Adam Cherry Dehydration is often the root of constipation. Before trying remedies like pumpkin, ensure your dog is drinking enough water—about an ounce per pound of body weight daily. Add a splash of low-sodium broth if they’re picky.
Switch to Wet Food Temporarily
If your dog’s on dry kibble, try canned food for a day or two. The extra moisture helps digestion flow smoothly. It’s a quick fix to get things moving again.
Exercise to Kickstart Bowel Movements
A little activity can work wonders. Short, frequent walks stimulate the colon and help relieve constipation fast. Even a game of fetch in the yard can do the trick—just keep it gentle.
These natural remedies are safe and effective for most dogs. Pair them with patience, and you’ll see results in no time.
Tip: “Walk your dog 15-30 minutes after meals. This timing leverages natural digestion reflexes to stimulate bowel movements, especially for constipated pups.” By Dr. Fossum’s
When Home Remedies Aren’t Enough
Most constipation cases clear up with the tips above, but sometimes it’s more serious. Call your vet if you notice:
- No poop for 48+ hours.
- Vomiting, blood in the stool, or signs of pain.
- Lethargy or loss of appetite.
Vets might use fluids, enemas, or meds to help—treatments best left to professionals. Don’t worry—most pups bounce back fast with the right care.
How to Keep Your Dog’s Bowels Moving Smoothly
Prevention’s the best medicine! Keep your dog’s digestion on track with these habits:
- Fiber-Rich Diet: Add pumpkin, green beans, or a vet-approved high-fiber food.
- Plenty of Water: Fresh water daily keeps stools soft.
- Regular Exercise: Daily walks or playtime keep bowels active.
Routine vet checkups catch issues early, too. A little effort now means fewer constipation woes later.
Conclusion: Get Your Dog Pooping Quickly Today!
Now you’ve got everything you need to make a constipated dog poop quickly—from pumpkin power to walk-it-out tricks. These vet-backed remedies and daily tips will have your pup back to their regular, tail-wagging self in no time.
Tried one of these? Drop a comment below and let me know how it worked for your furry friend! Share this guide with other dog parents—because every pup deserves a stress-free poop.
