My 8-week-old puppy is straining to poop with mucus. What to do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Veterinarian

  Published on

  Oh no! It's possible that your puppy is having diarrhea, and is not actually constipated, which is very common. It might be constantly straining because it has loose stool and the urge to go, but no feces present. This is common with parasitic infections, and if the bitch and the pups have not been dewormed regularly, this is very likely. I would strongly recommend taking a fecal sample to your veterinarian to be evaluated for parasites/bacterial infection. I have seen many puppies over the years who actually prolapse their little rectums straining so hard with diarrhea. If this happens, you need to have a simple surgical procedure done to fix the prolapse. I can't think of a case in my experience where a puppy of this age has actually been constipated, but it is possible. If the puppy is straining consistently enough, you may need to take him to an emergency clinic to prevent a prolapse from occurring. Otherwise, deworm the litter and the mom now and again in two weeks.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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  Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on August 27th, 2017

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is a possibility if there is a high parasite burden or if it is eating a poor quality diet. If you are seeing the puppy strain to poop, it is likely it has diarrhea. Either way, I would take the pup to a vet to know for sure. Bring a fresh stool sample to check for microscopic parasite eggs. Good luck and kisses to the pup!

  

  5Pet Parents found this answer helpful