TROUBLE.POOPING

MY DOG IS HAVING TROUBLE POOPING.
   
IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN GIVE HIM TO HELP?

If your dog seems to be constipated, try feeding him some canned pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie).
   
Canned pure pumpkin is high in fiber and has a high water content which is why it is such a reliable constipation remedy.
   
You could also try to feed him some high-bran cereal but if you go the cereal route, do not feed him the pumpkin, too, or you will have the opposite problem.
   
If your dog is straining to poop, this should help him.
   
Constipation in dogs is typically diet related in that either they are not eating enough fiber or they are eating too much fiber and aren't hydrating enough.
   
Look at his food and if it doesn't have enough fiber in it, change brands or add a fiber supplement to it. If he is eating enough fiber, make sure he has a lot of opportunities to drink.
   
If you are letting him gnaw on bones from your table as a treat, STOP.
   
Bones are a big culprit in the 'why is the dog crapping dried out turds' sweepstakes and ideally you want your dog's turds to be moist and firm (sorry for that visual).
   
If you are feeding him cheaper dog food that could be the culprit so spring for the good stuff. You will use less of it, his turds will be smaller and better formed (which makes for easier scooping) and his farts will be less frequent and less stinky.
   
If your dog has stopped pooping entirely, then he needs an enema. It is very difficult to give a dog an enema yourself so see the vet.
   
The reason he would need an enema is that all the poop he's storing will dry out and it will be utter agony for him to pass so he will need assistance to get it out.
   
Good luck, hope your dog is soon pooping normally again.