My dog won't potty on road trips. Is it normal if she's scared?

Hello there! Thanks for your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Perhaps there is something that has recently frightened her out in the yard or garden. There is also the possibility she is having pain while urinating and/or defecating and therefore may be associating the area she goes wee and poo with the pain she may be experiencing. I think the best thing to do in this situation is encourage to go out (perhaps join or accompany her) or take her for a walkie to see if she goes then. If not and you are still concerned, especially if she hasn't passed urine or stool soon, then I would recommend you see your veterinarian for an exam. A urinary tract infection can cause pain during urination and constipation can cause pain during defecation. I would want to be sure there is nothing more serious going on if this behavior continues. Best of luck to you and Cindy!

Poor little Pixie. If she is truly scared to be outside one option may be to train her to a doggie litter box. If you go this route, be aware that it may become a permanent preference for her elimination habits. The other option is gradual work with herto overcome her fear. This may require adjusting your trip to stop at quieter locations and taking plenty of time outside the RV to play, feed and make it a good experience for her. If you are stressed and rushed she will sense it and that may add to her anxiety. There are some wood articles here about housebreaking and overcoming anxiety. Also, make sure there is not a medical cause for her to be obstipated (unable to poop). http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! She is likely just figuring out how and where to go potty and this is just a behavioral matter. However, this could be pain or discomfort while urinating/defecating. If this continues, it would be best to have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Otherwise, it will improve on its own. Best of luck!

I would not be overly concerned about this just yet. Dogs can hold it for a pretty long period of time. It is not great for them to do so but it should not be harmful at this stage. Are you sure she hasn't gone somewhere in the house? If you are taking her out on a leash, she may not be used to going on a leash - this happens a lot. So you may have to have her off leash. Don't make too much of a big deal when you take her out. Only say whatever word you want to cue her to use the bathroom like "go potty". Do not say or do anything else. Once she goes give her a good treat of something she likes. If you don't have an off leash area then I suggest you do the same as above just on leash instead of off. Try to take her to a spot where other dogs have gone as this usually stimulates them to go. Urination is most important. If she goes 24 hours without urinating you need to get her to a vet. It may be days before she defecates and that is not as concerning. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Even housebroken dogs may need re-training and positive reinforcement moving to a new home and family. At this point o would not be too worried about no bowel movement as long as she is eating, drinking and behaving normally. she may have a few accidents as she works on becoming acclimated to her new home but remain consistent and use positive reinforcement and she should adjust quickly.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I wouldn’t worry yet at just 36 hours. Some dogs are particular about their pooping habits. As long as she is eating, playful and not straining give her more time. If she can urinate in her own she can poop on her own. You can also call the person you got her from to double check what she did with them. Since you are seeing your vet tomorrow she should be fine. Have a good day!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Wow! So you are saying your 10 week old puppy can hold his urine and stool for 12 hours? That is very unusual! That is also a long time to not go to the bathroom, even for an adult. Is there someone home to walk him? If not then I would hire a dog walker or ask a neighbor to come over 1-2 times during the day to walk him. If you already do that or have someone at home trying to get him to go then all you can do is have them keep trying. If he is acting fine and drinking water well and eating I wouldn't get too worried. It is unusual for a dog this young to be able to hold it for 12 hours. Most adults can't do that. I wish you all the best!