From my personal experience as a dog owner, I can confidently say that dogs have the ability to hold their poop for quite a long time if necessary. Of course, it’s always best to allow them to relieve themselves regularly, but there are situations where they may need to hold it for extended periods.
The general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult dog can hold their stool for around 12 hours or more. This can vary depending on the individual dog and their specific health condition. Some dogs may have a larger bladder capacity and can hold it even longer, while others may need to go more frequently.
It’s important to note that puppies and older dogs may not have the same level of control and may need to go more frequently. Puppies, in particular, have smaller bladders and may need to relieve themselves every few hours. Older dogs, on the other hand, may have weaker muscles and may struggle to hold it for as long as they used to.
If you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to let your dog out for an extended period, such as being stuck in traffic or having to stay late at the office, most dogs will be able to hold it without any issues. They have a natural instinct to keep their living area clean, which includes holding their poop.
However, it’s important to remember that holding it for too long on a regular basis is not healthy for your dog. Just like humans, dogs need to eliminate waste regularly to maintain good digestive health. If your dog consistently holds their poop for longer than 12 hours or shows signs of discomfort or distress, it may be a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
While a healthy adult dog can hold their poop for 12 hours or more, it’s always best to allow them to relieve themselves regularly. Puppies and older dogs may have different needs and may need to go more frequently. If you find yourself in a situation where your dog has to hold it for an extended period, they should be able to do so without any major issues. However, it’s important to prioritize their regular bathroom breaks for their overall well-being.