Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My 1-year-old dog is potty trained but poops inside at night. Why?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cockapoo | Female | spayed | 1 year old | 12 lbs

Hi, my 1 year old dog is potty trained. But there are 2 nights that he poops inside our room in the midnight. No diarrhea. It looks like as a sudden he wants to go outside but she can’t. But I took her out before we go to bed around 10 pm. Why she does it?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 25th, 2018

She may not be able to control it and hold it through the night. IF her diet changed or she is eating something new for a treat this can also contribute. I would look at your schedule and see when she eats. You may need to feed her earlier in the day so she has to before bed instead of the middle of the night to help.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 7th, 2020

    I recommend talking him for a walk at bedtime to encourage him to have a bowel movement if needed. Also feeding him a lower residue diet may help. I recommend the brand Royal Canin. As to why this is happening, it's possible his gut motility is changing which could be due to something in the diet, bacteria and many other causes. I recommend to have his stool checked for worms to make sure it's not that. Crating him at night may also help to eliminate the behavior. I hope this helps.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored