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My dog poops less often now. Is this normal if she acts fine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 3 years old | 11.8 lbs

My dog Harley use to poop after every meal and now shit barely poops she eats but doesn't poop, she drinks and pees regularly acting normal no vomiting or diarrhea when she does poop next day there is no straining that could indicate constipation

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2019

Most dogs only have one bowel movement per day and some only have a bowel movement every other day. As long as a dog is eating, drinking and acting normally, and seems to be having a normal bowel movement without straining, I don’t worry. As puppies grow, their guts mature. Additionally, different diets have different fiber content. Both of these changes can change the frequency of bowel movements. It sounds as though Harley’s bowel movement frequency is completely normal!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 19th, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Harley. I wouldn't be too worried about her pooping only once a day. Some dogs only poop that much, and there may be days where she poops more. If the vet didn't find anything wrong, I would not worry. I'd be concerned if she wasn't pooping at all. I hope this helps!

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