Troubling going to bathroom

Question
My 7 year old dog (Lab/Shepherd mixed) seems to be straining to go to the bathroom. She does go but then sometimes it is like she is forcing herself to go and nothing or a little tiny bit comes out.  Do I give something to help go?

Answer
Chris-

Are you talking about urinating, or defecating?

If she is having trouble peeing, it may be a blockage or stones, or a UTI. Either way, a trip to the vet for a urinalysis and a bladder palpation is very important. If she is straining to defecate, she may have a blockage or simply be constipated. You can offer her some cod liver oil and canned pumpkin which will help flush her system out. If that doesn't work, I suggest an immediate trip to the vet, as it is likely she is blocked and in a lot of pain.

I hope she feels better!