Health

What Do I Do If My Dog Can’t Poop?

Written by: Nicole Zalat

November 26, 2018

When your dog can’t poop, it’s a worrisome situation for everyone. Whatever the source of constipation is, knowing that your dog is uncomfortable makes for a bummer of a day. So, what can you do if your best friend is struggling or unable to go to the bathroom? There might not be a simple answer as to how to make a dog poop quickly but that doesn;t mean you can’t help your pup. While there’s no magic cure to make your pup poop, here are a few tips to (hopefully) get them back on a regular potty track.

1. Make sure your pup’s reluctance to go potty is not a sign of a medical condition.

So your dog won’t poop. Dogs are smart. If you make a habit of only walking your dog until they poop, they may hold off on doing the duty. But before you accuse your pup of being a manipulative little genius, find out if they’re holding it in because of something more serious. Constipation might be stopping up your dog’s bowels. Sources of constipation range from ingesting something they shouldn’t have, blocked anal glands, enlarged prostrate glands, insufficient amounts of fiber, lack of exercise, side effects of medication, and beyond. Thus, always make sure to get the opinion of a trusted vet before trying any of the methods below.

2. Find a quiet area and make it a habitual potty spot.

Like us, pups prefer to go #1 and #2 in peace. Your dog might be uneasy relieving himself in an area with lots going on. It’s kind of like when you go to the bathroom and someone talks to you through the door and suddenly find yourself with a weird case of bathroom stage fright.

3. Tummy massage.

Never underestimate the power of a gentle tummy rub. Your pup will think he’s just getting a normal belly rub for being a good pup, but soft clockwise motions might help get things moving.

4. Use a command.

My dog Lady responds to “Go poop,” but feel free to get creative. I have friends who say, “Do your business” and “Go potty.” The important thing is that your pup knows it’s go time when you say the magic words so you’re not walking up and down the same street for an entire hour because your squinky thinks you’re just going for a normal walk.

5. Move that booty!

When housetraining, owners are advised to take their pup outside or to a fresh puppy pad immediately after playtime, because all that horsing around encourages your pup to let loose! Taking a quick jog around the neighborhood or playing a game of fetch might be just what your doge needs to finally go.

While we can’t tell you how to make a dog poop we hope these tips were helping in leading you pup to a more regular potty track. Got any extra tips? Share with us in the comments below!

For more, check out these articles!

Why Is My Dog Eating Poop?What Do I Do If My Dog Gets Skunked?How To Prepare To Bring Your Dog Home For The First TimeThe 12 Most Outrageously Impressive Dog Pooping Techniques8 Ways You And Your Dog Can Reduce Your Environmental Pawprints

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Written by: Nicole Zalat

November 26, 2018

Nutritionist-crafted food for your dog's breed or mix.

Recipes designed for dogs' individuality

LEARN MORE

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.