4 min read • By Leena Chitnis, Founder, Timberdog®
There’s nothing quite like standing outside in the freezing cold, waiting for your dog to do their business while they just sniff around like they’ve got all the time in the world. But when your dog is struggling to poop—or worse, not going at all—it’s more than just an inconvenience. It’s a signal that something’s off.
Helping your dog poop like a champ isn’t about forcing it. It’s about understanding what they need and giving them a little extra support to keep things moving smoothly. Here’s how.
1. Keep Them Hydrated
Hydration is one of the simplest, yet most overlooked, ways to keep your dog regular. Water helps soften stools, making them easier to pass. If your dog isn’t drinking enough, their poop can become hard and difficult to push out.
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Make Water More Enticing: Add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to their water bowl.
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Try Ice Cubes: Some dogs love chewing on ice, especially if you freeze bits of carrot or apple inside for a little treat. Don't make it a habit, though - ice can chip away at your dog's enamel.
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Wet Their Food: Mixing a bit of water or wet food into their kibble can sneak in extra moisture.
Is your dog dehydrated? If you suspect they are, we'll help you out here.
2. Increase Fiber Gradually
Just like in people, fiber is crucial for keeping a dog’s digestive system moving. But too much too quickly can lead to more problems.
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Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) is a powerhouse of fiber that can soften stool and get things moving. Start with a spoonful and adjust as needed.
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Green Beans: Fresh, steamed, or frozen, they’re low-calorie and packed with fiber.
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Psyllium Husk: This natural fiber supplement can be sprinkled over food. Just be sure to add extra water to keep things moving smoothly.
3. Get Them Moving
Exercise doesn’t just keep your dog’s body in shape—it keeps their bowels in shape too. A walk after meals can stimulate their digestive system and encourage them to go.
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Brisk Walks: Short, brisk walks can help get things moving. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
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Playtime: A good game of fetch or tug-of-war can also help if your dog isn’t a big fan of walking.
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Tummy Rubs: Gently massaging your dog’s belly in circular motions can encourage bowel movements.
4. Keep Stress in Check
Dogs can get constipated when they’re anxious or stressed. New environments, changes in routine, or even the presence of unfamiliar people or pets can cause them to hold it in.
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Create a Calm Space: Give them a quiet, familiar spot where they can relax and do their business without distractions.
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Stick to a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Feed them, walk them, and give them potty breaks at the same times every day.
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Pheromone Sprays: Consider using a calming pheromone spray in their resting area to help them feel more at ease.
5. Monitor Their Diet
What goes in must come out. If your dog is eating something that doesn’t agree with their system, it can back things up.
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Check for Bone Fragments: Dogs that chew on bones can end up with tiny shards that can constipate them.
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Avoid Too Many Treats: High-fat, low-fiber treats can clog up the works.
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Stick to Their Regular Food: If you’re switching foods, do it gradually over a week to avoid upsetting their stomach. If they're picky, try these tips.
6. Consider Natural Laxatives
If your dog hasn’t pooped in over 24 hours and seems uncomfortable, a natural laxative can help. But always check with your vet before trying anything new.
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Canned Pumpkin: A tried-and-true remedy. Just a spoonful or two can help.
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Olive Oil: A teaspoon added to their food can lubricate the digestive tract.
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Aloe Vera Juice: Small doses can soothe and stimulate the intestines, but make sure it’s a pet-safe, additive-free version.
7. Know When to See the Vet
Sometimes, no matter what you do, your dog just isn’t going. And if it’s been more than two days, it’s time to get professional help.
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Signs to Watch For:
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Straining without producing anything
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Crying or whimpering when trying to poop
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Swollen or hard abdomen
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Vomiting or refusing food
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Your vet may need to check for blockages, impacted anal glands, or underlying health conditions that are making it hard for your dog to pass stool.
The Bottom Line: Keep Calm and Keep Things Moving
When your dog can’t poop, it’s easy to feel helpless. But with a little patience and some simple strategies, you can help them get things moving again. Hydration, fiber, and a steady routine are your best allies. And remember, if things still aren’t happening, a quick call to your vet can get you the guidance you need.
Because at the end of the day, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as watching your pup poop like a champ.
Is your dog "scooting" or dragging their butt across the ground? There's definitely something amiss back there, and this article will help.
Photo credit: Daniel Maas