Signs a Dog Needs to Make a Bowel Movement

Nearly 40 percent of American households have at least one dog, making for more than 77 million pet dogs in the United States, according to statistics reported by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Since most dogs are not outdoor-only animals, dog owners need to be trained observers of their dog to know when he needs to go outside to relieve himself. Knowing these signs will encourage good behaviors in your dog while preventing accidents in the house.

  1. Going to the Door

    • If your dog spends any length of time inside, he understands that the door is the key to reaching the backyard. A dog needing to relieve himself outside may walk to the door and whine, scratch or just stand there looking at you expectantly. Since your dog's lack of opposable thumbs prevents him from grasping and turning the doorknob for himself, it's your responsibility to interpret these signals and respond appropriately. A motivated dog may even come find you in another room and stare at you until you get up and follow him to the door.

    Walking Slowly in Circles

    • If your dog starts pacing slowly in a circle, keep the pooper-scooper handy. This is the equivalent of a little kid doing a "potty dance." Some dogs may also sniff the ground to search out the most appropriate place to have their bowel movement. This will ideally be a location that has already been used for this activity. This is why it's important to use a cleaning product that removes every trace of a potty accident in the house. Otherwise, your dog's amazing olfactory abilities will keep him returning to the same spot over and over again to do his business.

    Rounded Back and Tucked Tail

    • As your dog's sense of urgency increases, he may exhibit a rounded back. Rounding the back is a dog's natural position for having a bowel movement, so this is a sign that the event is imminent. Some house-trained dogs may also tuck their tails between their legs if they are indoors.

    It's 5 O'Clock...

    • For dog owners who have successfully house trained their pets, one of the most reliable indicators that it's time for a bathroom visit may simply be the time of day. Many dog owners put their dogs on a schedule. The dog learns he can do his business at regular intervals during the day -- first thing in the morning, after meals and last thing at night -- according to Vicki DeGruy of the online magazine "Dog Owner's Guide." This provides consistency and predictability for both canine and human family members.