Constipation can be uncomfortable and distressing for dogs, leading to symptoms like straining, bloating, and changes in appetite. Pet owners often struggle to find gentle, effective solutions that work quickly without causing further digestive upset or harsh side effects.
This guide reviews the best laxatives for dogs, highlighting safe, easy-to-administer products for a range of needs. Whether you want a daily fiber supplement, a fast-acting liquid, or a natural remedy, you’ll find clear comparisons and practical advice to help you choose the right option for your dog’s digestive health.
Top 10 Best Laxatives For Dogs
We analyzed the top brands and best-selling products in the Best Laxatives For Dogs category to bring you a carefully curated list of recommendations.
1. Woof 'n' Purr Dog Constipation Relief Tincture
Digestive discomfort and irregularity can make dogs restless and unhappy, especially when constipation strikes. A gentle, effective solution is essential for restoring comfort and supporting long-term gut health.
Woof 'n' Purr's liquid tincture stands out for its fast-acting formula, making it a strong choice for pet owners seeking quick relief for their dogs. It's especially suited for those who value convenience and want a supplement that can be easily added to food or water.
- Triphala-based formula: Promotes gentle, natural relief without harsh side effects
- Fast-acting liquid: Delivers quick results and is easy to administer
- Supports digestive balance: Helps maintain regularity and gut health over time
Compared to powder or chewable options, this tincture prioritizes speed and simplicity of use. The tradeoff is that some dogs may prefer a flavored powder or treat over a liquid supplement.
- Quick relief action
- Simple to mix with food or water
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Supports ongoing digestive health
- No harsh additives
- Liquid may not appeal to all dogs
- No flavor variety
2. Wellix Cat & Dog Liquid Stool Softener
Constipation can affect both cats and dogs, making it helpful to have a versatile supplement on hand. A gentle stool softener can ease discomfort and help maintain regularity for pets of all ages.
Wellix's liquid stool softener is formulated for both cats and dogs, making it ideal for multi-pet households or those with pets prone to digestive issues. Its herbal blend and easy-to-use liquid format are especially useful for picky or senior pets.
- Herbal blend: Combines marshmallow root, dandelion root, and ginger for soothing digestive support
- Fast-absorbing liquid: Easily mixes into food, water, or milk for flexible dosing
- Large bottle size: Lasts up to 4 months, suitable for regular use
Unlike single-pet or powder-only options, this formula emphasizes versatility and ease for families with more than one pet. The main tradeoff is that it may not be as targeted as single-species products.
- Suitable for cats and dogs
- Gentle herbal ingredients
- Easy to administer
- Long-lasting bottle
- Chicken-flavored for palatability
- Not species-specific
- Liquid format may be less portable
3. NaturVet Stool Ease Soft Chews
Dogs prone to irregular bowel movements benefit from daily digestive support that’s easy to administer. Chewable supplements offer a familiar, treat-like format that encourages compliance.
NaturVet Stool Ease Soft Chews combine a proprietary enzyme blend and added fiber to help maintain normal bowel function. These soft chews are ideal for dogs needing ongoing support or for those who dislike pills and liquids.
- Soft chew format makes daily dosing simple and enjoyable for most dogs
- Proprietary enzyme blend aids digestion and supports regularity
- Veterinarian formulated and made in the USA for added peace of mind
Compared to powders or liquids, NaturVet chews prioritize convenience and palatability. The tradeoff is that dosing may require adjustment for larger dogs, and some pets may be picky about chew textures.
- Easy-to-give soft chews
- Supports daily digestive health
- Veterinarian formulated
- Made in the USA
- Enzyme and fiber blend
- May not suit all palates
- Dosing varies by size
4. BestLife4Pets Dog Laxative Relief Tablets
Some dogs require a gentle, non-habit-forming laxative that’s easy to hide in food and free from artificial chemicals. Tablets offer a discreet way to deliver relief without strong flavors or odors.
BestLife4Pets Dog Laxative Relief Tablets use a plant and mineral-based formula to ease hard stools and restore normal bowel movements. This product is best for owners seeking a holistic, homeopathic approach that can be given as needed or crushed into food for fuss-free administration.
- 100% plant-based formula avoids artificial chemicals and harsh additives
- Odorless and tasteless tablets are easy to hide in treats or kibble
- Suitable for all breeds and ages for flexible use across households
Compared to liquid or chewable options, these tablets prioritize a natural, low-profile approach. The tradeoff is that some dogs may resist pills, and effects may be slower than with liquid formulas.
- All-natural ingredients
- No artificial additives
- Easy to hide in food
- Non-habit-forming
- Works for all ages
- Some dogs resist pills
- Slower onset than liquids
5. Bernie's Perfect Poop Digestive Supplement
Digestive issues in dogs often require more than just a laxative—fiber, enzymes, prebiotics, and probiotics all play a role in gut health. A comprehensive supplement can address multiple concerns at once.
Bernie’s Perfect Poop Digestive Supplement combines four key digestive components in a single, easy-to-mix formula. It’s best for owners who want an all-in-one solution for constipation, diarrhea, and general digestive support.
- 4-in-1 formula includes fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes for total gut health
- Natural, grain-free ingredients suit dogs with sensitivities or allergies
- Grass bits format can be mixed into food or served as a topper
Compared to single-ingredient products, Bernie’s prioritizes comprehensive digestive care. The tradeoff is a more complex ingredient list, which may not be necessary for dogs with only occasional constipation.
- Complete digestive support
- Natural and grain-free
- Mixes easily with food
- Addresses multiple issues
- Suitable for sensitive dogs
- More complex formula
- Not targeted for acute relief
6. Oliver & Co. Dog Constipation Relief Tincture
Constipation can lead to discomfort and inflammation in your dog's digestive system. A soothing supplement can help restore comfort while promoting regularity.
Oliver & Co.'s tincture is formulated to gently relieve constipation while also soothing and detoxifying the digestive tract. It's a strong choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing extra gut support.
- Triphala-powered relief: Promotes regular bowel movements and gut balance
- Detoxifying properties: Helps flush out toxins and reduce inflammation
- Easy administration: Can be added to food or water with pet-friendly taste
Compared to powders or chews, this tincture prioritizes gentle, soothing action and ease of use. The main tradeoff is that it may not be as fast-acting as some other liquid formulas.
- Soothes inflamed digestive tracts
- Supports detoxification
- Simple dosing
- Gentle on sensitive dogs
- No harsh chemicals
- Not the fastest relief option
- Limited to dog use only
7. Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement
Digestive discomfort in dogs is often linked to insufficient fiber, leading to irregular or hard stools. A gentle daily fiber supplement can help maintain regularity and support overall gut health without harsh effects.
Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement stands out for its natural, pumpkin-based formula that delivers mild, effective fiber support. It’s ideal for dogs (and cats) needing ongoing digestive balance, especially those with sensitive stomachs or occasional constipation.
- Natural pumpkin fiber provides gentle, consistent digestive support for daily use
- Versatile formula suitable for both dogs and cats, making it a flexible option for multi-pet households
- No harsh additives ensures a clean ingredient list for pets with sensitivities
Compared to synthetic laxatives or strong stool softeners, Fruitables prioritizes a mild approach that’s easy on your dog’s system. The main tradeoff is that it may not offer rapid relief for acute constipation, but it excels as a daily preventive solution.
- Natural pumpkin-based fiber
- Suitable for daily use
- Works for dogs and cats
- No artificial additives
- Supports gentle regularity
- Not for rapid relief
- May not suit severe cases
8. Lax'Aire Laxative and Lubricant Ointment
Constipation and digestive discomfort in dogs (and cats) can sometimes be linked to hairballs or dry stools. A lubricant ointment offers a unique solution by easing passage and reducing irritation.
Lax'Aire Laxative and Lubricant Ointment is formulated to relieve constipation and help hairballs pass comfortably. Its palatable, squeezable formula is suitable for both dogs and cats, making it a good fit for multi-pet homes or pets prone to hairball issues.
- Lubricating ointment eases stool passage and soothes digestive discomfort
- Pet-friendly taste encourages voluntary intake
- Convenient tube packaging allows precise, mess-free dosing
Compared to fiber or enzyme-based supplements, Lax'Aire prioritizes lubrication and hairball management. The tradeoff is that it may not provide broader digestive support or daily preventive benefits.
- Lubricates for easier passage
- Tasty ointment format
- Works for dogs and cats
- Supports hairball relief
- Easy tube application
- Limited daily support
- Not fiber-based
9. Forever Puppy Constipation Relief Drops
Some pet owners seek a simple, clean-ingredient solution for mild constipation that’s easy to add to food or water. Drops with minimal additives are ideal for dogs with allergies or dietary restrictions.
Forever Puppy Constipation Relief Drops use sea moss and slippery elm bark in a purified water base, free from sugar, alcohol, or artificial colors. This formula is best for those prioritizing ingredient transparency and gentle, occasional relief.
- Minimalist ingredient list reduces risk of sensitivities or reactions
- Dropper format allows precise, invisible dosing
- Suitable for all breeds and sizes for broad compatibility
Compared to multi-ingredient or flavored products, Forever Puppy prioritizes simplicity and purity. The tradeoff is a less robust formula for severe or chronic constipation.
- Clean, simple ingredients
- No artificial additives
- Easy to dose in food
- Suitable for sensitive dogs
- Mild effect only
- Not for severe cases
9. Forever Puppy Constipation Relief Drops
Some pet owners seek a simple, clean-ingredient solution for mild constipation that’s easy to add to food or water. Drops with minimal additives are ideal for dogs with allergies or dietary restrictions.
Forever Puppy Constipation Relief Drops use sea moss and slippery elm bark in a purified water base, free from sugar, alcohol, or artificial colors. This formula is best for those prioritizing ingredient transparency and gentle, occasional relief.
- Minimalist ingredient list reduces risk of sensitivities or reactions
- Dropper format allows precise, invisible dosing
- Suitable for all breeds and sizes for broad compatibility
Compared to multi-ingredient or flavored products, Forever Puppy prioritizes simplicity and purity. The tradeoff is a less robust formula for severe or chronic constipation.
- Clean, simple ingredients
- No artificial additives
- Easy to dose in food
- Suitable for sensitive dogs
- Mild effect only
- Not for severe cases
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Laxative for Dogs
Laxatives for dogs come in a variety of forms, each designed to address constipation and digestive discomfort in different ways. Choosing the right product involves understanding your dog's specific needs, the severity of their symptoms, and how each formula works. Many buyers mistakenly assume all laxatives act the same, but factors like delivery method, ingredient profile, and intended use can make a significant difference in both effectiveness and safety.
- Product types include: fiber supplements, liquid tinctures, chewable treats, tablets, ointments, and drops
- Delivery method matters: liquids and drops are easy to mix with food or water, chews and tablets may be easier for some dogs to accept as treats
- Ingredient focus: some products use natural fibers (like pumpkin), others rely on herbal blends, probiotics, or lubricants for relief
- Intended use: some formulas are best for daily maintenance, while others are designed for occasional or acute relief
- Multi-pet compatibility: a few options are suitable for both dogs and cats, which can be helpful for multi-pet households
- Common misunderstandings: not all products provide immediate relief—fiber supplements are gentler and slower, while lubricants and liquids may act faster
- Tradeoffs to consider: stronger formulas may not be suitable for daily use, and some products prioritize ingredient purity over potency
Choosing Between Fiber, Liquid, and Chewable Options
The main decision for most buyers is whether to choose a fiber-based supplement, a liquid or drop formula, or a chewable treat. Fiber supplements like pumpkin are gentle and suitable for daily use, while liquids and drops offer faster relief and are easier to mix into meals. Chewable treats are convenient for dogs that enjoy treats but may not be ideal for picky eaters.
- Fiber supplements: Best for ongoing digestive support and prevention
- Liquids and drops: Ideal for fast-acting, occasional relief
- Chewables: Good for treat-motivated dogs and daily routines
Ingredient Sensitivities and Clean Labels
Some dogs have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, making clean-label or minimalist formulas a priority. Products like Forever Puppy Drops and BestLife4Pets Tablets use limited, natural ingredients to reduce the risk of reactions. Herbal blends and homeopathic remedies may also appeal to owners seeking holistic care.
Multi-Pet and Special Use Cases
If you have both dogs and cats, or pets with specific issues like hairballs or anal gland discomfort, look for products labeled for multi-pet use or those targeting these concerns. Lax'Aire Ointment and Wellix Liquid are formulated for both species, while Vetnique Glandex is designed for dogs with anal gland problems.
Administration and Palatability
Ease of administration can make a big difference in compliance. Liquids and drops are simple to add to food or water, while chews and ointments may be more appealing to some dogs. Tablets can be hidden in treats but may be refused by picky pets. Consider your dog's preferences and your own routine when selecting a format.
Final Buying Advice
Selecting the right laxative for your dog depends on their digestive needs, your household setup, and how you prefer to administer supplements. Avoid overbuying strong formulas for mild cases, and don’t underestimate the value of gentle, daily support for prevention.
- Match product type to your dog's needs—acute relief vs. daily maintenance
- Check ingredient lists for sensitivities or dietary restrictions
- Consider multi-pet compatibility if you have both dogs and cats
- Choose a format your dog will accept for stress-free administration
- Start with the gentlest option and escalate only if needed
FAQ For Laxatives For Dogs
1. How do I know if my dog needs a laxative?
2. Are fiber supplements safe for daily use in dogs?
3. Can I use cat laxatives for my dog?
4. How quickly do liquid or drop laxatives work?
5. What should I do if my dog refuses a chew or tablet?
6. Are there risks to using dog laxatives too often?
James Vega
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