why does my puppy push so hard to poop?

by Rebecca
(Colorado, United States)

I have a 7 week old German Shepherd Puppy. She seems to be having some trouble pooping. She will poop the first time and do fine, her stools look pretty normal, maybe just a little more yellow than an adult dog's. Then she will try to poop again and just push and push and maybe a little drop will come out. Is this normal?

She eats quite a bit, and is always asking for more, I had to hide the food bag or she will beg for more. I'm not sure if that's the right thing to do, but she seems nice and plump like a puppy should be. I feed her 3 or 4 times a day. I haven't had a puppy in such a long time!

Please let me know if I'm doing the right stuff! Also, I am calling the vet today to get her in for wormer and whatever else she needs. Thanks!




Hi Rebecca
It could be that your puppy is just a little constipated, but as her stools seem to be normal I doubt it's severe. You can check out my page that talks about constipation in puppies for tips and advice if you think this could be a factor... How To Help A Constipated Puppy.

It could also be that your pup has puppy worms, just about ALL puppies have worms when they're young and your veterinarian will routinely treat her for these at the same time that she gets her puppy shots.

You could mention this problem to your vet at this routine appointment so that he can double check everything is okay with her, just to be on the safe side, but I don't think it's anything to be too concerned about.

Hope this helps, best of luck with your new puppy.