Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog hasn't pooped. How often should dogs poop and when to worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 8 years and 7 months old | 12 lbs

My Shih Tzu Romeo normally poops after eating breakfast in the morning. He did not poop this morning though nor tried to. He did poop 3 times yesterday but his last bowel movement yesterday was different, it was a very small piece but was firm not hard. Do dogs need to poop everyday or should I be concerned? Thanks

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2021

If Romeo has had recent excessive stool production, it may be normal to have less for a day or two. It's fine for a dog to go a day without pooping, especially with that history. If he begins to strain unproductively, become painful, uninterested in food, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 26th, 2017

    No, I wouldn't be worried just yet. Sometimes dogs will only poop once a day and that's normal. It's good that Anne did poop once, and I would be more concerned if she hadn't pooped at all. You can try adding a teaspoon of canned pumpkin puree to her food to give her more fiber and see if that helps. If she stops pooping altogether, then I would take her into the vet for an exam. 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
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored