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My 8-week-old puppy hasn't pooped today. Is this normal for puppies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 1 day old | 4 lbs

My 8 week old puppy hasn't pooped today

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on September 23rd, 2019

I wouldn't be too concerned about not passing stool unless Bowie goes more than 24 hours without going, or seems in distress/ill (trying to go but can't, vomiting, not eating or drinking, lethargic, etc.) A play session and some running around may help encourage his bowels to get moving as well!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 10th, 2019
Thank you for submitting your question Sugar. It is unusual for a puppy to go so long without defecating, especially if she is eating normally. I recommend thst she sees a veterinarian. You want to ensure that she is not constipated. Continue to encourage her to eat and drink. You can even add some water to her food to encourage her to drink more. This can soften the stool making it easier to pass. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on May 7th, 2018
Young puppies should go to the toilet often so it is very strange that she hasn't defeated in 3 days. Ensure that you are stimulating her to toilet by rubbing her genitals with a wet tissue. If she is still not going I would seek veterinary attention as she may be impacted.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 23rd, 2018
I would watch him for the next 24 hours. Make sure your puppy has enough water to drink. You may add some canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) which may help to retain some moisture in the feces and making it easier to defecate. If your puppy is still constipated on Monday, or if he gets lethargic before Monday, you will need to take Oliver to a veterinarian or PetER for a pet enema.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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