How Long Can Chihuahuas Hold Their Poop? (Solved & Explained!)

Your Chihuahua will need to go outside to poop within 15 to 30 minutes of every meal. That said, most adult Chihuahuas should be able to wait for up to 8 hours before they absolutely need to have that bowel movement. Try to take your dog out more frequently, of course, but your dog can wait a little while.   

In this article we’re going to explore the most frequently asked questions about Chihuahuas, potty breaks, and potty training. Read on to get the answers that you need for training your Chihuahua – let’s get started!

How often should a Chihuahua poop?

That depends on the individual dog, but generally speaking your Chihuahua is going to poop anywhere from 1 to 5 times each day. Usually they are consistent with the number of times that they will go, unless their diet changes, so if your dog usually poops 3 times a day then they will do the same on most days.

How long after a Chihuahua eats does it poop?

Within 15 to 30 minutes of eating a meal, your Chihuahua is going to need to go outside for a bowel movement. Your dog has a very fast digestive system, so you should expect to take them out after every meal and plan your schedule accordingly.

This will help to ensure that your dog can go when they need to and help to minimize any little ‘surprises’ in the house.

How can I make my Chihuahua poop?

If you are worried that your Chihuahua might be constipated, there are a few things which you can try that may help. 2 – 3 tablespoons of canned pumpkin are one option that may help your dog to have a bowel movement.

Check with your vet as well to see if over the counter Metamucil may be used and the proper dosage, as this can also work a treat when you need it. Finally, try exercising your dog. A little extra exercise may be exactly what you need to help your dog through their constipation.

How can I make my dog poop fast?

Sometimes rubbing your dog’s belly before taking them out can help, so this is something that you can try. Canned dog food sometimes does the trick too if your dog is used to dry food.

Dietary fiber options for your dog are another possibility and you might even be able to just exercise them a little more – sometimes this alone can work wonders!

Do puppies poop at night?

Puppies will sometimes poop in their crates at night or in the house if left unchecked. If they see a spot where it can be covered up, then it can be a temptation. You can help to minimize this by soaking your dog’s dry food in water or broth beforehand and always be sure to take them out before bedtime.

If your dog keeps pooping in their crate, consider a vet visit. Some parasites can cause this and you want to rule that out quickly if that is the case.

How much do you feed a Chihuahua day?

An adult Chihuahua is going to eat anywhere from ½ to 1 and 1/3 cup of food a day, depending on their size and weight. You can divide the feedings up into either 2 or 3 feedings a day, with 3 being optimal to make sure that your dog doesn’t get puckish in between their feedings.

Is it OK if my dog only poops once a day?

Yes. Some dogs are only going to poop once a day and this is completely normal for that dog. That said, if your dog normally poops 3 or 4 times a day and now is only pooping once, then you might well have a problem.

Changes in potty habits are a red flag, so if this is the case for your dog then a vet checkup might be a good idea to rule out any potential health issues.  

How do you punish a dog for pooping in the house?

Punishment is not a good idea. By the time that your dog has finished and moved away, they’ve forgotten all about it and they’ll have no idea why you are so angry. Instead, watch them closely, and if your dog squats down then firmly tell them ‘no’ and take them outside to finish.

After that, give lots of praise and a treat, and over time your dog will learn that you want them to always go outside for potty breaks.

What causes a dog to cry when pooping?

There are a number of reasons why your dog might cry when pooping. They could be constipated, for instance, or they might even have polyps inside their rectum. The best thing to do is to bring your dog in to the vet immediately for a checkup.

Crying during bowel movements is a big, red flag, and while it might be something minor, if it isn’t you want to get ahead of the issue as soon as possible. Your vet can quickly get things sorted out, so bring your dog in TODAY.

How do I get my dog to poop before bed?

Exercise is usually best, so if your dog is taking their sweet time, try a quick jog with them and see what happens when you slow down. Sometimes all it takes is a little exercise to get your dog good and ready to have their bowel movement and to go to bed.

You can also try rubbing their belly before going out, as this helps with some dogs that like to take their time.

What foods make dogs poop?

Spinach and other leafy, green veggies can sometimes do the trick when your dog is constipated. One of the best options, however, is canned pumpkin. A few tablespoons of this has quite a bit of fiber and can help your dog out when they are feeling ‘less than regular’ in regards to their bowel movements.

If your dog won’t eat it, simply mix it in with a little canned food or soup broth and they should gobble it right up.