Dog Having Poop Accidents After Stress or a Dog Fight: What’s Causing It?
by Christy O
(Fresno, Ca)
A sudden fright can make a dog lose control of its bowels on the spot, and that alone isn’t a cause for worry. When accidents carry on afterward, though, it’s worth looking for a physical cause. Stress can trigger colitis and urgency, even when the stool looks normal at first. During a fight, a dog can also be bitten or injured around the tail, rear end or back, which can be easy to miss under fur.
Look carefully for wounds, swelling or pain around his tail and rear, and notice whether he’s holding his tail differently or seems weak or wobbly in his back legs. Dropping stool while walking, without seeming to notice, can be a sign of a nerve problem. Book a vet visit so they can check him over, including a rectal and neurologic exam. Go promptly if you find a wound or he seems sore.
In the meantime, keep things calm and predictable at home, take him out more often, and avoid scolding him for accidents, which can add to his stress. See our guide to bowel incontinence in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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