Veterinarians have been researching remedies for canine constipation for several years—and remedies without negative side effects. The most effective way, surprisingly, to help a constipated dog is the same way to prevent diarrhea in dogs.
A dog who does not pass a stool after 3 days is considered to be constipated. Also, constipation has to do with the texture of the stool, a dog who passes a hard stool once per day is also considered a constipated dog.
The problem with a constipated dog is in the intestines where digestion is compromised. Constipation disrupts the natural flora balance in the canine intestine, and thus, leads to more and more constipation.
The causes of constipation in dogs are easy to spot. Simply, diet and water intake are the number one causes of constipation. Also, as dogs approach middle age, their gut becomes less efficient. Poor diet and medications take their toll on the intestinal flora, making digestion sloppy. Good flora (bacteria) which helps draw water into the intestines and properly digest food is lacking in the constipated dog.
Combine these circumstances with dehydration, and you have a recipe for a constipated dog.
The problem with a constipated dog is in the intestines where digestion is compromised. Constipation creates a "snowball" effect, where the constipation disrupts the bacterium in the colon and leads to more constipation.
Don't use laxatives, which are a band-aid treatment for an underlying health problem! To treat the constipated dog naturally, and prevent it from returning, follow this checklist in order of importance: