If you’re a dog lover, then you know puppies are absolutely adorable. From their wobbly steps to their playful nature, there’s nothing quite like a puppy. But as every new pet owner quickly learns, puppies also come with some unique challenges.
One of the most common issues is potty training. Everyone that has raised a puppy knows they poop. A LOT!
There’s nothing like sleeping peacefully in the night only to be woken up by your puppy scratching and whining frantically and needing a potty break.
If your puppy is only pooping at night, don’t worry – you’re not alone! This post will help you figure out what’s going on and how to fix it.
Why Does My Dog Only Poop At Night?
There are several reasons your pup is pooping at night, and once you understand the reason, you can address it.
Poor Bowel Control
For potty training, puppies have small bladders and high metabolisms, which means they need to relieve themselves frequently. Puppies can hold their poop for one hour every month of age.
For example, a two-month-old puppy can typically hold its poop for two hours. However, this is just a general guideline, and many factors can affect how long a puppy can hold its poop. For instance, puppies who are eating more or drinking more water will need to relieve themselves more often.
Puppies who are anxious or excited may also need to go more frequently. If you’re potty training a puppy, it’s important to be aware of these potential variables and adjust the schedule accordingly. With patience and consistent effort, your puppy will learn to hold its poop until it’s convenient for you both.
New House
If your furry pal is new to your household, he is becoming used to a new routine and change takes time. They don’t know what to expect, and they are adapting to life in a new home in contrast to the time previously spent at the breeder’s or rescue center.
Late-Night Attention
Your dog might continue to wake you up in the middle of the night if they learn it earns them additional cuddles and attention. If it’s the first time your fur baby wakes you up to go potty, it could be sweet, but the novelty will soon wear off for you after a few days of interrupted sleep.
If your pup wakes you up to go potty, make it brisk and businesslike. Take them outside to potty, then take them straight back in again. Don’t give them any more attention than necessary.
Uneasy Stomach
Dogs can get a bad stomach for several reasons. Some common causes include eating too much, eating too fast, or eating something they’re not used to.
Anxiety and stress can also lead to an upset stomach. Dogs may also suffer from motion sickness, which can be caused by riding in a car or being on a boat. Sometimes, a bad stomach is simply the result of indigestion or an upset stomach.
However, it can also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as pancreatitis or gastroenteritis. If your dog has a bad stomach, it’s important to watch for other signs of illness and to consult your veterinarian if the problem persists.
Stress and Anxiety
Your dog may suffer both physically and mentally because of stress and anxiety. Has your routine or the surroundings in which your dog lives undergone any noteworthy changes?
Events like relocation, or a new family member, can bring stress on or get a new pet. Even dogs occasionally experience episodes of anxiousness for no apparent reason. They can drop bundles of midnight poop if they appear anxious or restless.
Eating Too Late
Your pup may poop at night if it eats its dinner too late. Puppies have quick metabolisms, and when the food has finished passing through their systems, they must poop.
Try feeding them earlier if they are going potty at night despite being fed several hours before bed. This may enable them to postpone going potty until the morning.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a condition that can affect dogs of all ages, breeds, and walks of life. It occurs when a dog becomes anxious or stressed in situations where they are separated from its owner. This can cause a wide range of behaviors, including pacing, panting, howling, chewing, and, sometimes, excessive defecation.
While we often think separation anxiety of as a psychological disorder, it can also have physical causes, such as an imbalance in the gut bacteria. In severe cases, separation anxiety can debilitate both the dog and the owner.
If you suspect your dog may suffer from separation anxiety, it is important to speak to your vet for advice on how to best manage the condition.
Tips On Preventing Night Pooping
Night pooping is a prelude to many nights of interrupted sleep. Raising puppies is hard work! However, there are a few things you can do to help prevent night pooping.
Diet
Feed a high-quality diet. Inferior dog food often contains cheap filler ingredients which will have your puppy pooping more.
Establish A Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, so make a meal and potty schedule and stick to it. Try feeding your pup earlier in the day and then go for a potty break just before bed to minimize the chances of a night poop.
Size The Crate Right
When it comes to dog crates, size matters. A crate that is too small will be cramped and uncomfortable for your dog, while one that is too large will defeat the purpose of crate training. The best way to select the right size crate is to measure your dog and use those measurements to choose a crate with adequate space.
Final Thoughts
Puppies have tiny bladders and bowels and will have to go potty much more frequently than adult dogs. After learning all the reasons, stop asking yourself why does my dog only poop at night? Don’t worry, pups will grow up and gain better control of their potty habits!