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My dog hasn't pooped in 4 days after gastroenteritis. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 2 years and 4 months old | 65 lbs

My Australian shepherd was diagnosed last week with gastroenteritis and dehydration. She was started on antibiotics and a bland diet. She hasn't pooped in 4 days, but is finally playing again and adding much happier. Should I be worried?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2019

Thanks for using Pet Coach! Sometimes after not eating and having severe diarrhea, it can take time for a solid stool to reach the "end of the pipes" so to speak. I would say that 4 days is on the long end of what I expect so if she does not defecate in the next 12 hours, I would recommend seeing your vet to make sure she is not constipated (which could happen with serious dehydration). Overall, I'm happy because the playing and eating is a great sign.

Best wishes to you and Hannah!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 30th, 2017
It is it uncommon for the stool to decrease after diarrhea when thinhs are returning to normal. If she is eating and drinking normally, acting the same, and not vomiting, I would continue to monitor her for further bowel movements and any straining. If the diarrhea returns or she begins to strain then I would have her seen by your vet
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on March 11th, 2018
If she had diarrhea and now she is only pooping once a day or every other day that seems pretty expected to me. Most dogs poop poop 1-2 times a day but if their gut was pretty empty from the diarrhea it may take several days to get back to normal pooping schedule. If she is not eating well or if she is vomiting then I would be concerned, otherwise I would see how she does over the next several days. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH
Veterinarian
Published on September 20th, 2017
HI and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Sometimes the antidiarrheal medication can have this temporary effect on bowel movements. Not uncommon. You may speak to your veterinarian about this and whether the dosage should be decreased.

Not certain exactly what the white around her anus could be, but it may be dried mucous from the diarrhea she had been having.

I hope this helps and I thanks again for your post!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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