Hardened stools

[Blabbotts]

My 3 yr old miniature poodle mix has hard dry stools.  She eliminates regularly but has had gastro-intestinal problems in the past (ie:  vomiting, diarrhea).  She is currently on a diet of I/D moist & kibble which has controlled the aforementioned problems.  Now it is the dry hard stools.  She weighs 15 lbs. Would a tablespoon or ? of pumpkin be helpful at each meal? Pumpkin was helpful in the past with my dalmations years ago for a similar problem.  Thank you for your help.
                                                           The Blabbotts

[Blabbotts]

Your feedback is very helpful...thank you very much!

[utahmomma]

Also talk to your vet about giving her Omega 3 & 6 fish oil.  It is great for their health and can moisten things up.

[Jaybay]

Since your dog already has a documented history of GI problems, check with your vet.  It sounds like the diet change to control the diarrhea just went a little too far in the other direction.  Since pumpkin has a lot of fiber, I can't imagine it would hurt anything to try it, but still check with your vet for any other supplements that might be needed.

One other thing that people sometimes forget is to check is water.  Is she drinking the bowl dry and looking for more, or is she just not drinking enough at all?  If fiber is going to help, without causing a tummy ache, additional water intake is essential.