Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Is it normal for my puppy to whine, circle, and walk while pooping?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rough Collie | Male | neutered | 3 months and 4 days old | 32.2 lbs

I have a 12 week old rough collie. He is a house dog. I feed him Diamond Puppy food, and he eats one and a half bowls a day. Whenever he has to poop he starts whining and turning in circles while he is pooping, then he starts walking and pooping. Why does he do that?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2019

This could be normal behavior - particularly the turning in circles and walking while defecating. Some dogs will do this when defecating for no particular reason. The whining is a bit more concerning and could be a sign of pain so it might be a good idea to have Trusty examined by your vet to make sure his anal glands and rectum seem normal.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Image profile

    Answered By Catherine Stecyk

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 6th, 2019

    Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I would not be worried about this at all. He likely just walked in a circle while defecating. If you believe his stools are softer than they should be, he may have gastrointestinal parasites (worms), which can be treated by your veterinarian. I hope this is helpful!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored