Why is my puppy straining to poop? Should I take him to the vet?

Poor pup! If nothing at all is coming out except some mucus, it would really be best to have him seen by a vet tonight if possible - severe constipation like this is very uncomfortable, and he may need an enema along with prescription medication to treat it effectively. If this isn't an option for you, you could try giving him a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin if you have some available - this helps to increase fiber and moisture in the stool, which can make it softer. I would also encourage the puppy to drink fluids, either water or low-sodium beef or chicken broth, which can also help to soften the stool a bit. He should still be seen by a veterinarian as soon as you are able to take him, especially if he is still not able to poop by morning.

It looks like there may be some rectal swelling/possible prolapsing if your puppy is straining hard to go to the bathroom and can't. If he is unable to pass stool at all and the swelling is still there or growing in size, it would be best to seek veterinary care in person ASAP. If he is able to pass some stool and is a little constipated, some pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) or plain yogurt can help, but if he is straining to the point of causing rectal swelling/protrusion or is retching like there is something stuck preventing him from going potty, veterinary care is needed.

I am sorry to hear about your pup! I would look at her rear end and check to be sure she doesn't have a matted area of hair/stool covering her anus and preventing her from pooping, as this can sometimes happen in long haired dogs. In mild cases of constipation, adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin to their food to provide fiber can sometimes relieve constipation. If, however, she is lethargic, not eating, does not stop straining/cannot relax, or is vomiting then she needs veterinary care today. If she does have a fecal mat covering her anal area she will likely need to see the vet to have the area shaved and cleaned. You can read more about constipation at https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951509

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I unfortunately cannot tell much about how the anus is functioning by looking at a photo. Testing has to be done in person by a vet to see if the sphincter is responding. I do not see a prolapse in this photo. I agree the anal opening looks flaccid but that is all I can say. I strongly recommend you take him to a vet for an exam especially if you think he is straining. At 2 months old he is ready for his first vaccinations anyway and if he has not been dewormed already that needs to be done as well.

Poor guy. He may be a bit constipated. If he is squatting but no feces are coming out, then its best to take him to your vet to have him checked. He may need an enema to remove dried stuck feces in his colon so that he can freely go. You can also give an over the counter enema (from your local pharmacy) if you are up for it. Make sure he has free access to water and give him some canned food as well to increase his water intake. Constipation in young dogs is also often caused by intestinal parasites, so its good to have his stool checked by the vet as well. I hope that your fur baby feels better and is able to go potty soon! Best wishes and take care.

It sounds like Ellie could have diarrhea and that's why she's straining. She could also be constipated but it's not common in dogs. Since she's also vomiting I recommend taking Ellie to the vet to find the cause. They can check for constipation or diarrhea and treat the cause. Good luck and kisses to Ellie!

This small red bulge is likely his rectum, and he is clearly pushing very hard if that is appearing. He will be in discomfort if he's straining that hard to poop, and I would have Koda seen by a vet today. It's not normal to have his rectum bulge out when he's trying to pass feces, and he may need medications to stop this.