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My dog hasn't pooped in 4 days after gastroenteritis. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Female | spayed | 2 years and 4 months old | 65 lbs

My Australian shepherd was diagnosed last week with gastroenteritis and dehydration. She was started on antibiotics and a bland diet. She hasn't pooped in 4 days, but is finally playing again and adding much happier. Should I be worried?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2019

Thanks for using Pet Coach! Sometimes after not eating and having severe diarrhea, it can take time for a solid stool to reach the "end of the pipes" so to speak. I would say that 4 days is on the long end of what I expect so if she does not defecate in the next 12 hours, I would recommend seeing your vet to make sure she is not constipated (which could happen with serious dehydration). Overall, I'm happy because the playing and eating is a great sign. Best wishes to you and Hannah!

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