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My Shih Tzu poops while sleeping. What causes dog fecal incontinence?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 3 years old | 8.2 lbs

My 3 year old Shih Tzu has been sleep pooping since she was about a year old. It's just a pice of poop about the size of my finger tip. She never sleep pees. It's almost every night. She is small for a Shih Tzu (8lb.) and long for one too.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

This morning not uncommon and is often related to muscle weakness and poor nerve control in this area. You should get your vet to check for any physical reason such as polyps. Acupuncture, chiropractic care and a high fiber diet can all help improve bowel control also

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