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My new puppy isn't pooping and cries in his crate. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 21 days old | 5 lbs

I brought home ten week old puppy yesterday. I put him in his crate while we ate our dinner and he popped inside the crate about 6pm. I cleaned the mess up and took him to his potty spot in the yard. He was up most of the night whining and yelping in his crate. Today he has not pooped at all. He has eaten a small amout of dry kibble throughout the day and a small amout of canned food. He is drinking and peeing. He has napped alot but has played on and off. I am worried about him

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2017

Puppies tend to play hard and sleep hard. He maybe be exhausted from being up all night. If he is not eating well you can always give him a little karo syrup as small dogs can get lie blood sugar. Since he is only 5 lbs his stomach is smaller than a tennis ball so it won't take much to fill him up. as long as he is eating and drinking, you can give him time to adjust to your new routine and schedule. If he stops eating or you notice vomiting to diarrhea then he needs to be checked.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on August 26th, 2017
You have to consider what an upheaval it is for a young puppy to move home, there is the travel then then the new environment and being away from mum and siblings. The reason I say this is that it usually takes them a couple of days to settle in and very commonly they will not eat or drink much. I would give the pup a bit of space for a while and try to limit excited friends and family just for a day or so until it is settled. Offer it food that it is used to. You can put a hot water bottle and teddy in its bed to make it feel more at home. I wouldnt worry too much at the moment but if he hasnt toileted within another 24 hours it would be worth calling your vet as they can get constipated from stress. Good luck and dont worry, he will be settled in soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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