Why Dogs Poop While Walking: The Surprising Reason!
Overall, this behavior in dogs typically doesn't warrant concern for owners. However, if you notice that it persists and your dog seems to be straining more each time it walks, it's essential to take it to a veterinarian for a checkup.
Why is a vet visit necessary?
1. Muscle Atrophy: Just like humans, aging or issues with leg muscles can make defecation a laborious task for dogs, as it requires the strength of their leg muscles. Unlike humans, who can sit on a toilet to minimize the need for leg muscle effort, dogs must squat, which means their muscles have to work harder. Walking while defecating can alleviate this issue. As a dog's leg muscles gradually atrophy, they may become increasingly reliant on this behavior. In other words, if your dog is older, this is quite normal; if it's young and this behavior is becoming more frequent, it may be time to consider a veterinary examination.
2. Marking Territory: Similar to urine, feces can be used by dogs to mark their territory. When a dog defecates, the scent from its anal glands is more likely to disperse in the air. Walking while defecating can enhance the release of these gland scents, indicating a strong territorial dog.
3. Habit: Sometimes, it's just a habit. If you're accustomed to smoking while on the toilet, your dog might also get into the habit of walking while defecating. This behavior can be corrected with proper guidance from the owner.
Keep in mind, though, as long as this doesn't happen indoors, it's not a major issue. Just remember to carry some tissues with you when you go out.
4. Emotions: We all know that a dog's emotions can affect its bowel movements. A dog that's recently moved to a new environment may experience constipation due to excitement or anxiety. This behavior is often caused by these two emotions:
Excitement: A dog may become overly excited by external stimuli, causing its actions to synchronize with intestinal movements, prompting it to quickly finish defecating and then go wild to play.
Anxiety: If a dog fears something around it and leans on you during defecation, this is a sign of trust. However, if it walks while defecating, it indicates a sense of unease about its surroundings.
Regardless of the emotion, once the dog adjusts to its new environment, it will likely return to its normal habits.
5. Intestines: Dogs can control their intestinal movements, but when there's an issue, such as with parasites or coccidia, they may need to use their leg muscles to help expel feces more quickly. Regular deworming is crucial, as dogs with coccidia often exhibit this walking defecation behavior.
6. Diet: Eating indigestible or inappropriate items can cause dogs difficulty in defecating. This can lead to discomfort and pain in their anal area, prompting them to walk to alleviate the pressure on their rectum.
