Dog not peeing/pooping, suddenly scared to go outside. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 4 years and 6 months old | 11 lbs
Dog hasn't had a poo or wee all day and seems to be scared to go into the garden when she would normally wander in and out the garden throughout the day
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on August 22nd, 2017
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!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 19th, 2018
You shouldn’t need to take her in for an emergency visit tonight unless she is acting painful when trying to urinate or unless she is unable to pass any urine at all. I would however try to get her in to your regular veterinarian’s office tomorrow. I would be concerned that she has cystitis and/or possibly a urinary tract infection. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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