Performing an enema incorrectly can be harmful to your pet. Do not attempt to perform an enema on your dog without first consulting your veterinarian and getting advice. [1] X Research source
Not getting enough exercise. If your dog does not get much exercise, then he may become constipated. Dehydration. If your dog has not been drinking enough water, then he may become constipated. A blockage. If your dog is eating well, exercising, and getting enough water but still not producing any stool, then a blockage may be to blame. A change in the anatomy of the pelvis, such as after being hit by a car. This may cause the pelvis to become narrower and that may make it hard for the dog to pass feces. Arthritis pain in the hips. This may cause a dog to avoid defecating as much as possible rather than deal with the pain and discomfort. This causes the feces to dry out, which makes it even more difficult to pass. [3] X Research source
Producing hard, dry, and/or small stools. If his stools are hard, small, or if he is not pooping at all, then he may be constipated. Not pooping for several days. If he is eating well but does not poop for several days, then he is probably constipated. Straining when trying to go. If he then starts straining and nothing comes out, then he is likely to be constipated. Crying when trying to defecate. If your dog cries when he tries to go to the bathroom, then you should take him to see a veterinarian right away.
If your dog passes liquid stools, then it is unlikely he is constipated and an enema is not necessary or advised.
An outdoor yard or cement area that you can hose down afterwards[9] X Research source A garage with lots of newspaper laid out on the floor
After giving an enema, dispose of all soiled protective clothing and wash your hands well.
Micro-enemas are commercial enemas designed for human use. You can purchase these enemas from a pharmacy. A typical commercial enema is Micralax. Micro-enemas contain a small volume of lubricant which is delivered into the rectum to gently lubricate the feces. These enemas have a gentle (rather than explosive) effect and when used in the early stages of constipation, these types of enemas should help your pet to pass feces normally.
Avoid using pure liquid paraffin because it can lead to electrolyte imbalances in the blood. [11] X Research source
Choose equipment that is appropriate for the size of your dog. A large breed dog may require an enema bag (large capacity) while a toy dog will do just fine with a 2. 5 milliliters (0. 08 fl oz) syringe. If you are not sure, then ask your veterinarian for a recommendation. [12] X Research source Determine how much fluid you should administer. When giving a full enema, the recommended guideline for how much fluid to pump into the rectum is 10-20 ml/kg. Therefore, for a 30 kg Labrador retriever you would administer between 300–600 milliliters (10. 1–20. 3 fl oz) of fluid. However, it is difficult to instill too much liquid as it will just reflux back out of the rectum. [13] X Research source Make sure that you have plenty of extra enema fluid on hand. If your dog fails to pass feces after an enema, then you would need to repeat the process in 1 - 2 hours.
If your dog has long fur or feathering around the rear end, then consider clipping away the long fur to reduce fecal soiling when the dog does go. [15] X Research source
Make sure that the water is not too hot by testing it on the inside of your wrist. If the water is too hot, then cool it down by adding a little cold water. [16] X Research source If you are using a syringe, attach the tubing to the hub of the syringe and suck back on the plunger in order to fill the syringe.
It may also help to apply a gentle twisting movement to the tubing as you advance it.
Push the tubing about one to two inches into the anus.
Once the full volume has been given, slowly remove the enema tubing.
If your dog does not pass feces on the first attempt, repeat the enema process 1 - 2 hours later. Remember to give your dog plenty of opportunities to toilet in between enemas. When he is ready to go, he will need to go right away. Never get angry at a dog that has had an enema and loses control. This is not his fault. To prevent your dog from having an accident on your carpet or furniture, you may want to keep him outside until he has gone.
