Senior Dog Suddenly Losing Bowel Control: What If Fiber Isn’t Helping?

It’s hard when a dog who has been reliable for years suddenly can’t control his bowels. Psyllium can help by firming the stool, but it won’t fix weakness of the anal sphincter or the nerves that control it. If his stool is formed and he passes it without noticing, a nerve problem is a possibility. Ask your vet about a neurologic exam of his back legs, tail and anal reflex, and whether imaging of the lower spine would help.

It’s also worth going over the timing with your vet, since the accidents started around his eye-pressure crisis and the medicines he was given then. Your vet can tell you whether any of his medications could play a part. Yeast in the stool is often incidental, though your vet will interpret that result.

Meanwhile, take him out often, especially after meals, keep his rear clean and dry, and use washable bedding. Go urgently if he becomes weak or wobbly in the back legs or can’t pass urine. See our guides to senior dog fecal incontinence and bowel incontinence in dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.