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Yelping When Defecating in Dogs
Written By Grace Park
Published: 06/27/2017Updated: 07/01/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
What is Yelping When Defecating?
There are times when your dog will experience pain or have difficulty defecating. This is called dyschezia. Generally, your dog may yelp when he defecates because there is some type of disorder of the rectum or colon. You should never ignore your dog when they are yelping when they defecate. Contact your veterinarian for an appointment to determine what is causing your dog to yelp when defecating.
Masses that form within the colon or rectum can cause your dog to yelp when defecating. An injury or mass on the anus or the perineum can also cause pain when your dog defecates. In male dogs, if they have a condition affecting the prostate, painful defecation can occur. The prostate gland is located under a segment of the colon and an enlarged prostate gland can cause your dog to experience pain when they defecate.
Potential causes of your dog yelping when defecating include:
- Colon or rectum disorder
- Mass on the anus or perineum
- Constipation
- Pseudocoprostasis
- Prostate problems
- Mass or injury in the pelvic region
Why Yelping When Defecating Occurs in Dogs
Colon or Rectum Disorder
When there is a problem occurring inside the colon or the rectum, your dog will experience pain when they try to defecate. Masses, such as cancer or polyps, can cause the fecal matter to back up and be more difficult for your dog to pass. This can cause them to yelp when they defecate. Dogs that have swallowed small foreign objects may pass them through the colon and rectum and then out of the body. This can cause pain if the foreign object is irregularly shaped or has jagged edges. Strictures or narrowing of the colon or rectum can make it difficult for your dog to pass feces out of the body.
Mass on the Anus or Perineum
Masses such as cancer or polyps on the anus or the perineum can cause your dog to yelp when he defecates. The anus can also have a stricture or narrowing that makes it more difficult for your dog to pass fecal matter out of the body. Anal gland infections, abscesses or cancer can cause pain when defecating. Sometimes your dog may suffer from a perineal hernia. A perineal hernia is when the tissue within the pelvis and into the soft tissue behind the hip becomes herniated. This can cause pain when your dog attempts to defecate. Another possible condition that your dog may be suffering from is perineal fistula. This occurs when the skin around the anus becomes infected and ulcerated.
Constipation
When your dog is constipated and straining to defecate, it can become painful for them. If you notice they are straining excessively and producing very little, if any, feces they may be constipated. Dogs that are suffering from constipation might respond to over the counter medications, but you should also consult with your veterinarian before giving any medications to your dog.
Pseudocoprostasis
Keeping your dog’s hind end well groomed and in some instances, clipped short is not just to make them look good. When there are knots or mats around the anus, feces can become trapped and cause pseudocoprostasis. With feces trapped so close to the skin an infection can occur. In severe cases, the hair is so matted that feces are unable to escape the body and begin to back up into the colon, making your dog severely sick.
Prostate Problems
For male dogs, the colon is located above the prostate gland. When there is a problem with the prostate gland, such as an infection, cancer or abscess, it can cause your dog to experience pain when they try to defecate.
Mass or Injury in the Pelvic Region
Fractures or injuries to the pelvic bones can cause your dog pain when they have to strain to defecate. Masses or infections can also cause your dog to feel pain when they attempt to defecate.
What to do if your Dog is Yelping When Defecating
When you notice your dog yelping when he defecates, note whether or not he is able to pass any feces. If he does, collect a stool sample for your veterinarian. When you take your dog in for his appointment, explain the signs that you have seen as well as how long your dog has been exhibiting pain when he passes stool.
Your veterinarian will order diagnostic tests to determine what is causing your dog to be in pain when they defecate. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment plans will be discussed. Surgery may be required for certain conditions and medications may be prescribed. Be sure to listen to your veterinarian and ask any questions regarding your dog’s treatment plan. Follow all dosing instructions closely when giving your dog medications.
Prevention of Yelping When Defecating
Feed your dog a diet that is high in fiber and protein to ensure that they do not become constipated. If your dog likes to chew on items, keep all small items out of reach and provide them with plenty of dog safe toys to occupy their time. As soon as you notice your dog is having difficulty defecating call your veterinarian for an appointment so any problems can hopefully be caught early.
Cost of Yelping When Defecating
Depending on the diagnosis and your location, treating your dog for yelping when he defecates can be costly. Constipation can cost between $200 and $5000 depending on the severity of their constipation. Colon and rectum issues can be treated for $300 to $2000.
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Yelping When Defecating Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
eskipoo
Two Months
7 found this helpful
7 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Shaking
My pup was put on antibiotics last Tuesday after a solo test shows she was positive with parasites. The pet store said it’s common for young pups living in pet shops. Her stools have been solid and she doesn’t seem to have a problem going. But this afternoon everything changed and she is shaking. Not playing and only wants to lay down
Dec. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
7 Recommendations
Hello, if she is not eating and lethargic I would worry about parvo with her being so young. It would be best for your vet to run a parvo test. Lethargy is the first sign of parvo followed by vomiting and diarrhea.
Dec. 27, 2020
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terrier mix
Two Years
16 found this helpful
16 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Pain When Pooping
Hi my dog had to go to the bathroom many times last night and this morning she seemed to be in pain when trying to poop but nothing came out. She has the same energy level and she is still eating and playing normally. This just started.
Dec. 14, 2020
Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
16 Recommendations
I'm sorry to hear this.
Assuming when you say 'go to the bathroom' you mean defecating or pooping, it may be that there is no longer any stool left in her gut.
If she has colitis / enteritis (inflammation of the gut) there may be the sensation to go, leading to the straining.
If she is otherwise well, consider a course of probiotic anti diarrhoea paste and a few days of a very bland diet e.g. chicken and rice.
Do also ensure she is up to date with a good quality wormer.
However, if she develops other symptoms (such as a reduced appetite, bloody stool, a fever, vomiting, lethargy etc) she should be seen by a vet. Similarly, if things don't resolve shortly, we should have her assessed.
Dec. 15, 2020
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