How Often Do Dogs Urinate & Have Bowel Movements?

How often your dog urinates and defecates depend on a variety of factors, most of which are related to your pet's diet.

  1. Normal Urination

    • Your dog should urinate once every eight to 10 hours at a rate of approximately 20 ml per pound.

    Dietary Effects on Urination

    • While the amount of water your pet consumes is the primary factor here, sodium and glucose intake can also affect urination frequency. If your dog is experiencing abnormalities in urination frequency, seek veterinary help.

    Normal Bowel Movements

    • The frequency in which your dog has a bowel movement depends on how often you feed it. Your dog should be defecating after each feeding time.

    Dietary Effects on Bowel Movements

    • The amount, type (dry or canned) and fiber content of your dog's food all affect the frequency at which it will have a bowel movement. High fiber content and canned dog foods lead to a higher frequency in bowel movements.

    Irregular Bowel Movements

    • If your dog is struggling to force a bowel movement, the feces is dry and hard, or your dogs anus appears swollen, the animal is likely constipated. If constipation or diarrhea continue, see you veterinarian.