DoctorPup Complimentary Service

Food Going In--No Poop Coming Out

Q: My new puppy, 11 weeks old, is eating & drinking water, and urinating as expected. However, he has not 'pooped' yet. Is this common within the first few days of arriving at his new home? I've been feeding him the chicken baby food w/the Karo Syrup through the syringes that came with him, he's eaten a little of the Little Caesar's puppy food, and a little yogurt, however, he's not pooping. He's a teacup Yorkie, he weighs 1.67 lbs. and his name is Ricky.

A: I don't worry about a puppy not pooping unless the puppy is trying but unable or if there is an affect on attitude or appetite. If your puppy is eating well and feels good he will poop when needed. For safety check to make sure there is no dried poop in the hair around the anus as this can cause the puppy to delay defecation because it is undomfortable. If there is dried poop in this area you can gently bathe it away with warm water and a little mild dish soap or if you have a small hair trimmer you can clip it out. Using scissors for this should be avoided as it is very easy to injure your puppy. Continue with your current feeding and as he gets more accustomed and is playing more you can gradually reduce the amount of syringe feeding. Please let me know if you have other questions.