"How can you tell your dog is constipated?"

Q&A WITH DR. PAULINE TAYLOR, BVM&S MACVSC  

DR. PAULINE SAYS: Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passing of faeces which when eventually they get passed tend to be dry and hard. Passing faeces is triggered by the movement of faeces in the intestine into the rectum, and controlled by the nervous system which initiates smooth muscle contractions and relaxation of the anus. The most common sign of constipation is straining to pass faeces, but vomiting, depression, not eating and discomfort occur to varying degrees. Dogs maybe misdiagnosed with diarrhoea as liquid faeces can slip by sold faecal clumps in the rectum and be passed out. There are many causes of constipation both in and out of the intestine. These include problems with the nervous system, pain and dehydration leading to blockages and a multitude of medical conditions. If your dog is constipated my advice is to seek veterinary assistance without delay.