Now that we know what causes this issue, let’s look at what you can do to help prevent this from happening:
1. Make sure that your Shih Tzu is drinking enough water.
Do not just leave out a bowl of water and assume that your puppy or dog will drink as needed. Here are some tips to follow (for all Shih Tzu, not just constipated ones):
A.
Do not allow the water to become warm and stale. Dogs are much more apt to drink enough when they have nice, cold water.
2. Supervise your Shih Tzu to prevent ingestion of grass.
Eating grass is common for dogs; but, it's not healthy. It can cause problems ranging from upset stomach to allergic reaction to poisoning (via lawncare chemicals).
3. If your Shih Tzu is constipated and is also taking an antihistamine; check with the vet to discuss lowering the dose if possible.
4. Make your Shih Tzu feel that going to the bathroom indoors, when home alone, is okay. Set up an area by blocking off a section of a room or using a canine playpen. In this area, there should be room for food and water bowls, toys, a bed to rest and sleep, and pee pads for bathroom needs. Will your Shih Tzu always hit the mark? No. But that is okay. Have the option there, so that he does not hold it in and become constipated. 1. Increase water intake.
Follow all of the aforementioned tips under '
Prevention'.
2.
Give some extra fiber. Soluble fiber typically works well to relieve constipation in dogs, and pumpkin is the standard go-to remedy that works well in many cases. Obtain 100% real canned puree pumpkin and not the pie filling. Start with 1 teaspoon per day and increase to 2 teaspoons if needed. Alternatively, kale and spinach can be effective (though too much can cause flatulence). When ground or chopped, these can easily be mixed into meals.
3. Increase exercise.
Exercise can prompt fecal matter to move through the large intestine. Additionally, when a dog breathes a bit faster, this can trigger natural contractions of the intestinal muscles which can also prompt a bowel movement. Just an extra 10 minutes added to daily walks can be enough to help, when this is done in conjunction with other remedies.
4. A half dry half wet mixture for meals.
Dry kibble is best for the teeth and for healthy stools; however, if a dog is constipated often, and particularly for senior dogs that may have sluggish stools, a 50/50 mixture of dry kibble and wet canned food may be needed. If you opt for this, try to use the same brand.
5. If the above does not work and your Shih Tzu is still constipated, you may wish to try offering a bit of milk. Normally if a dog drank milk each day, they could develop diarrhea. But, when a dog has constipation, the milk can work to relieve it. ¼ to ½ cup per day is a good goal. You can add it to the food or you can serve it separately for your Shih Tzu to lap up. Don’t give too much!
6. If the above steps do not resolve the constipation, it will be time to bring your Shih Tzu to the veterinarian. A mild laxative may be prescribed. PLEASE NOTE:
Do not give your dog a laxative meant for humans; this can be fatal! Your veterinarian will most likely prescribe a laxative that contains lactulose; it is safe and effective when proper dosing instructions are followed.
If you are concerned that your Shih Tzu has some sort of obstruction that is not allowing fir a bowel movement, this is an emergency situation that warrants an immediate visit to the vet or closest animal hospital.