How to Use Mineral Oil to Treat Constipation in Dogs

Constipation in a dog is a symptom of a problem in the large intestines. Serving to retain water and any nutrients that the small intestines miss, the large intestines include the ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon and cecum. These parts work together to concentrate waste and produce a stool. Mineral oil is a tasteless additive to many human laxatives, and can serve as a temporary treatment for occasional constipation in dogs.

Things You'll Need

• Mineral oil
• Dog food
• Eye dropper
• Bulb syringe
• Measuring spoon

Instructions

1. The easiest way to give your dog mineral oil is simply to mix it with dog food. Try this step first, but if the dog won't accept it, move on to Step 2.

2. Try putting the mineral oil on your finger and letting the dog lick it off. Although time consuming, you will know your dog is getting the mineral oil, and he will feel comforted by your attention at the same time.

3. Administer the mineral oil orally with a syringe, but only in small amounts at a time to make sure the dog is swallowing.

4. If all else fails, use an eye dropper full of mineral oil as an enema. Use a rubber bulb syringe for larger dogs.

Tips & Warnings

• For dogs less than 10 lb., use no more than ½ tsp. If the dog weighs between 10 and 25 lb., use no more than 1 tsp. Medium-sized dogs weighing 25 to 50 lb. should ingest no more that 1 tbsp. per day. Give no more than 2 tbsp. a day for large dogs over 50 lb.

• Use mineral oil only for one week, and only while the dog is constipated.

Resources

• Digestive Disturbances in Dogs