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My dog isn't pooping normally. Is he constipated or ate something?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 16 days old | 3 lbs

My pup usually poops 3 times a day, especially after meal. Today he pooped just once (abot 14 hours back). He is eating normally and doesn't seem lethargic. I'm afraid he might have eaten something while playing with some plastic toys. What should I do?

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 19th, 2018

Sometimes pups do not poop as often as usual. I would not be worried yet. In case of a foreign body ingestion and blockage, a dog usually gets diarrhea first (the body is trying to get rid of the foreign body), then that stops and the dog will start to vomit and retch and get lethargic. Not pooping on time is not something to get worried about yet. You can feed a little bit of canned pumpkin to ease defecation. Going for a walk helps also. Should Rocky not have had a bowel movement by tomorrow, he is likely constipated and will have to be seen by your vet.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on October 28th, 2018
Constipation can be a very serious condition, it can be caused by a physical blockage (foreign body like a bone) or a functional peristalsis deficiency of the intestines.
In order to treat simple constipation, you should increase the fibers in the food (e.g. canned pumpkin) and can add a little mineral oil to the diet.
I strongly advise taking Benji to the vet in order to check if there is a serious condition causing the constipation first.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 17th, 2016
Constipation can be a very serious condition, it can be caused by a physical blockage (foreign body like a bone) or a functional peristalsis deficiency of the intestines.

In order to treat simple constipation, you should increase the fibers in the food (e.g. canned pumpkin) and can add a little mineral oil to the diet.

I strongly advise taking your dog to the vet in order to check if there is a serious condition causing the constipation first.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on September 5th, 2017
Constipation can be a very serious condition, it can be caused by a physical blockage (foreign body like a bone) or a functional peristalsis deficiency of the intestines.

In order to treat simple constipation, you should increase the fibers in the food (e.g. canned pumpkin) and can add a little mineral oil to the diet.

I strongly advise taking Lily to the vet in order to check if there is a serious condition causing the constipation first.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on October 9th, 2018
It sounds like he needs more fiber in his diet. That will increase the bulk of the poop causing him to go regularly and will help prevent constipation. You can add plain canned pumpkin to his food, or switch to a dry food with a higher fiber content. Many weight loss foods contain increased fiber. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Rocky.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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