There can be a range of different reasons why your dog has stopped pooping or is pooping less often. It's important to pay attention to how often your dog poops, what their poop looks like, and if they show any other changes in behavior. This article will go over some potential causes and solutions for a dog who has stopped pooping or is pooping less frequently. 

Diet Change 

One potential reason for your dog's change in bowel movements could be attributed to a recent change in diet. Perhaps you switched dog food brands or started feeding them table scraps more often. Dogs' digestive systems are fairly sensitive, so even a small change in diet can lead to upset stomach and changes in bowel movements. If you have recently changed your dog's diet and they seem to be having trouble going to the bathroom, try switching back to their old food and see if that helps. 

Lack of Exercise 

Another potential reason for constipation or other changes in your dog's bowel movements could be a lack of exercise. Just like humans, dogs need to get up and move around to keep everything working properly. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to all sorts of health problems, including constipation. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise every day - a long walk or some playtime at the park should do the trick! 

Medical Problem 

If you've ruled out dietary and exercise changes as the cause of your dog's constipation, it's possible that there could be a medical problem at play. Various gastrointestinal issues can cause constipation or changes in stool, so it's best to take your dog to the vet to rule out any potential health problems. In serious cases, constipation can even lead to gastrointestinal blockages, which can be fatal if not treated immediately by a professional. 

Stress

In addition to the potential causes mentioned above, stress can also be a factor in a dog's change in bowel movements. Dogs can become stressed for a variety of reasons, such as changes in their environment, a new pet or person in the home, or separation anxiety when their owner is away. Stress can affect a dog's digestive system, leading to constipation or diarrhea.
To help reduce stress in your dog, try to identify the cause and make changes to their environment or routine to help alleviate it. For example, if your dog is stressed because they are left alone for long periods of time, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to break up their day. You can also provide your dog with interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep them occupied while you're away.

Water Intake

Another potential solution for a dog who is constipated or not pooping frequently is to increase their water intake. Dehydration can lead to constipation, so make sure your dog always has access to fresh water. You can also add some wet food or broth to their meals to increase their water intake.

If your dog has stopped pooping or is having fewer bowel movements than usual, there are a few potential causes that you can troubleshoot at home. If changing their diet back or increasing their exercise doesn't help, it's best to take them to the vet to rule out any potential medical problems.