What Are the Best Dog Foods for Less Poop (2023)

What are the best dog foods for less poop?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes. Please consult your vet for more information.

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We adore them dearly. They brighten our days, and we cannot imagine life without them. But when it comes to poop, we wish our furry canine friends were not connected to it. The amount of poop in your backyard may be overwhelming. They may also get you into legal trouble, particularly if your dog engages in the behavior in prohibited areas. Taking a dog out many times is also exhausting. 

A less poop-producing solution is required in this situation. A  solution that keeps your backyard tidy and enables you to walk your dog without worrying about it pooping before you get home. 

Diet is the best fix. With regard to our dogs, what goes in also comes out. The food your dog eats determines the kind and volume of poop it will pass, down to the ingredients and texture. Before introducing new foods, consult your veterinarian because increased poop could indicate a health problem.

This necessitates caution when buying dog food for lighter stools. Every pet food manufacturer asserts to have the best recipes for gastrointestinal health. However, the majority of these assertions are simply deceptive sales tactics. How can you tell the difference between the real deal and the fake and give your dog the best? How can you make sure you get your money’s worth?

You can choose wisely thanks to our thorough analysis. The best recipes for less poop are provided for you. This is the starting point. The characteristics of the best dog food for less poop are also provided in our guide. This guarantees that you can buy other foods with comparable qualities that aren’t on our list of the top ten. Let’s start.

How Frequently Should Your Dog Poop?

Your dog’s life stage determines how frequently it poops. Although some pups may poop twice or three times daily, most adult dogs only do so once daily on average. On the other hand, puppies may require more frequent bathroom breaks. This may be up to five times daily or more.

Senior dogs may require less frequent elimination, as little as once daily or less frequently. Even though your dog might have their own routines, you should pay attention to any changes in frequency.

What Causes Excessive Pooping in Dogs?

Excessive pooping is not normal, and it necessitates a visit to the vet. This will rule out other underlying health problems. Here are the main causes of increased stool volume or frequency.

Overeating

This is the major cause of excessive pooping. The more your dog consumes, the more pooping. To reduce the chances of overfeeding, feed your fido at specific times and avoid artificial additives and fillers. You can also calculate the ideal meal portions based on your dog’s size and activity level.

Colitis

This is a health problem that affects the gastrointestinal tract and causes inflammation. Common symptoms include excessive pooping, discomfort, pain, and diarrhea. 

Intestinal cancer

This is common in senior dogs. Symptoms to watch out for are excessive pooping, diarrhea, blood in the stool, and weight loss. 

Unfamiliar environments

New and unknown environments can make dogs anxious and uncomfortable. Your dog might experience stress and depression after a recent move, which could lead to an upset stomach and other digestive issues.

Psychological stress

Separation anxiety and psychological stress can affect your pup’s digestive health. It may lead to increased pooping and diarrhea. 

Dietary changes

Switching your dog’s food abruptly causes digestive problems characterized by increased pooping, diarrhea, and vomiting. Introduce new foods gradually, starting with small amounts of new foods and increasing them slowly until your fido’s system fully adjusts. 

Choosing the right diet is important for gut and digestive wellness. This translates to reduced frequencies of excessive pooping. Every pet parent must understand the key attributes of the best recipes for less poop. 

What Are the Qualities of the Best Dog Food for Less Poop?

From our discussions, the food your dog consumes determines the type and quantity of stool. Here are the features to look out for when purchasing dog food for less pooping.

High protein

Protein is key for strong muscles. Look for recognizable protein sources like chicken, bison, and beef. Lean protein sources support less pooping. Having real meat as the top ingredient ensures the protein content is high. 

Digestibility

The best recipes for less poop are highly digestible. This lowers the risks of gastrointestinal problems. Gastrointestinal issues contribute to increased pooping and cause other tummy issues, including vomiting and diarrhea. Increased digestibility further ensures maximum nutrient absorption for overall wellness. 

Dry foods

The nutritional content of kibble is higher than that of canned food. They have fewer calories as well. On the other hand, wet recipes contain a lot of liquids like juice and water. To satisfy your dog’s dietary needs and maintain health, you will need to feed it more. If your dog is not picky, always stick to dry recipes.

Correct quantity

Overeating contributes to more pooping. It is important to stick to the AAFCO guidelines on the amounts to serve your dog. These amounts vary with your dog’s weight, life stage, activity level, and breed. Ensure the meal is complete, balanced, and does not exceed the recommended daily intake. 

Low-residue meals

Consuming low-residue diets ensure your pooch gets the nutrition it deserves and avoids unhealthy ingredients. Such recipes are nutritional-dense and easily digestible to boost your pup’s overall health and maximum nutrient absorption. These meals are temporary plans to support digestive health. 

The meals include fish, skinless and seedless cooked veggies, white rice, eggs, poultry, dairy products, and fresh fruits.

Dogs on a low-residue diet should avoid high-residue ingredients like corn, legumes, leafy veggies, cheese, popcorn, and bran cereals. 

Healthy fats

Fats are key for skin and coat care. They also boost brain functions and mobility. Additionally, fat adds flavor to food. However, dogs require moderate healthy fats as consuming lots of fats leads to excessive and greasy stool. 

What are the ingredients to avoid for less poop?

Low-quality formulas include fillers and artificial additives. These only add bulk and make the food visually appealing. They have no nutritional value. On the contrary, fillers like wheat, corn, and soy contribute to gastrointestinal problems, which can cause diarrhea and excessive pooping. 

What Are the Top 5 Best Dog Food for Less Poop Brands?

High-quality brands offer the correct meals that include the above features. Below are the brands that offer the best formulas for less stool:

• Royal Canin
• Wag
• Natural Balance
• Whole Earth Farms
• Nulo

Prices vary with brands. The average price for our top 10 formulas is $3.32, ranging from $1.92 to $6.39 per lb. The food you select depends on your dog’s breed and life stage. Puppies are still growing and hence require more proteins and fats than seniors. Here’s a summary of our leading formulas for less poop:

• Best Overall:  Royal Canin Dry Food -$15.99 per 2.5-lb bag ($6.39-lb).

• Best price-Effective: Wag Amazon Brand Dry Food – $57.59 per 30-lb bag ($1.92-lb).

• Best for Sensitivities:  Natural Balance Diets Dry Food – $79.98 per 22-lb bag ($3.64-lb).

• Best for Weight Management: Whole Earth Farms Dry Food – $56.98 per 25-lb bag ($2.28-lb).

• Best for Puppies:  Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy Grain-Free Salmon Recipe Dry Food – $86.50 per 24-lb bag ($3.73-lb).

Please Note that the prices in this article are as of 1st February 2023.

Royal Canin Dry Food (Best Overall)

Is your senior or adult dog pooping frequently? Then this meal from Royal Canin is the best selection. It is crafted for low-activity small-breed dogs and includes highly digestible proteins for reduced stool volume and odor. The initial manufacturing date is February 2nd, 2012. 

Your dog’s coat and skin will also benefit, thanks to increased levels of EPA and DHA. These omegas also promote brain health and mobility. It comes in small kibble sizes to encourage chewing. Proper chewing lowers the chances of digestive issues, which may cause diarrhea or excessive pooping.

The inclusion of L-carnitine ensures your dog maintains a healthy weight. It breaks down excess fat, thus lowering the risk of fat accumulation, leading to greasy stool. It includes grains and may not be the correct selection for pups with grain allergies.

• Top 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 19% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 3.7% Max.

• Calorie Content: 354 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: Extra small and small breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: Highly digestible proteins for less stool and reduced stool odor. 

• Price: $15.99 per 2.5-lb bag ($6.39-lb).

Wag Amazon Brand Dry Food (Best Price-Effective) 

Switching from one brand to another may lead to tummy issues, including diarrhea and excessive stool. This formula from Amazon is crafted for all life stages, so you will not change your dog’s food when it transitions to adulthood. The meal has been on the market since April 29th, 2018. 

It starts with salmon for high-quality proteins to boost muscle wellness. Salmon is easily digestible, so your dog can absorb all the nutrients without increased stool volume. Each bowl has 35% protein, and the meal is made in the United States. 

Lentils and peas provide phytonutrients, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that support immunity, while flaxseed and salmon oil is rich in omegas for coat, skin, and brain health. There are zero grains, fillers, or artificial additives, thus lowering the chances of allergies and sensitivities. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Lentils, Pae Protein, Peas. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 35% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 346 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: Salmon tops the ingredient list for high-quality proteins to boost muscle wellness. 

• Price: $57.59 per 30-lb bag ($1.92-lb).

Natural Balance Diets Dry Food (Best for sensitivities)

This high-quality meal from Natural Balance is the best choice for your sensitive pup. It is a limited-ingredient formula. Pooches with allergies or sensitivities require a premium formula that uses fewer ingredients. This makes it easy to spot and avoid an allergen. It also lowers the chances of stomach problems, including increased stool volume, vomiting, and diarrhea. The recipe has been on the market since February 17th, 2021. 

It features bison and sweet potatoes as the main ingredients for amino acids and fiber to boost muscle and digestive wellness. The formula uses a single protein source and is free from common allergens like corn, soy, wheat, grain, and artificial ingredients. 

Increased levels of DHA, omegas, and minerals boost brain, coat, skin, and bone health, while vitamins C and E promote immunity and prevent inflammation. Its small kibble size may not suit fast eaters and large dogs. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Bison, Potatoes, Pea Protein, Potato Protein.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.

• Calorie Content: 355 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, temperature, activity level, and weight. 

• Key Benefit: Uses fewer ingredients to lower the risk of sensitivities and allergies. 

• Price: $79.98 per 22-lb bag ($3.64-lb).

Whole Earth Farms Dry Food (Best for weight management)

A healthy weight means fewer health problems. This formula from Merrick Pet Care is crafted for weight management. It is crafted with multiple proteins and has no artificial additives or fillers. The proteins provide amino acids for muscle function. The initial manufacturing date is December 31st, 2013. 

Field-grown veggies provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals for digestive wellness and overall health. A healthy digestive system means minimal chances of tummy issues and excessive pooping.

The wholesome harvest blend provides omegas for coat and skin care while antioxidants boost immunity and provide a healthy oxidative environment. The formula is formulated in the US, and it has no animal by-products. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Salmon Meal, Potatoes, Canola Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 27% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 371 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with poundage.

• Key Benefit: Increased antioxidants and fiber for immune and digestive wellness. 

• Price: $56.98 per 25-lb bag ($2.28-lb).

Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy Grain-Free Salmon Recipe Dry  Food (Best for Puppies)

Start off your puppy with this limited-ingredient meal from Nulo Pet Foods. Salmon is the only protein source to reduce the risk of sensitivities. This also lowers the chances of tummy issues that lead to diarrhea and frequent pooping. The formula has been on the market since July 30th, 2017. 

Puppies need strong muscles, and the high protein content ensures they achieve this. The formula has special probiotics for gut and immune wellness. It is low in carbs and has no tapioca or potatoes, making it the best selection for less stool. 

This recipe includes DHA for your dog’s brain and vision wellness. Nutrients like vitamins C and E, calcium, and phosphorus support immunity and boost bone functions. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chickpeas, Salmon Meal, Canola Oil, Chickpea Flour

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 438 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, activity level, and size.

• Key Benefit: Salmon is the top ingredient and the only protein source for muscle health, with minimal sensitivities and allergy risks. 

• Price: $86.50 per 24-lb bag ($3.73-lb).

Honest Kitchen E2 Chicken Dog Food Dry Food

This premium food from The Honest Kitchen uses human-grade ingredients for smooth digestion and reduced pooping. The formula starts with highly digestible dehydrated chicken for ideal weight and thick muscles. The formula has been on the market since May 25th, 2006. 

The ingredients are gently dehydrated. This ensures maximum nutrient absorption. Gentle dehydration further enhances flavor and improves digestibility. This is key for stool volume and consistency. It reduces the frequency of pooping.

There are no artificial preservatives, GMO ingredients, fillers, wheat, corn, or soy. The serving process is easy; only warm water is added before serving. You can serve it as a topper or a standalone meal. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Potatoes, Organic Flaxseed, Dried Apples, Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 446 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with breed, activity level, and weight. 

• Key Benefit: The ingredients are gently dehydrated for easy digestion and reduced stool volume. 

• Price: $102.98 per 40 lbs of food ($2.57 lb).

Diamond Care Grain-Free Formula Adult Sensitive Stomach Dry Food

Sensitivities cause tummy issues, including increased pooping, and this meal from Diamond Pet Food is crafted with sensitive dogs in mind. It uses one protein source and has no grains to limit the chances of allergic reactions and sensitivities. The initial manufacturing date is January 28th, 2017.

Proteins come from easily digestible eggs, thus lowering the number of allergens that trigger sensitivities. Easy digestion also boosts stool consistency and frequency. High levels of probiotics support gastrointestinal health. 

Vitamin E and selenium prevent infections, while omegas ensure your dog’s skin is soft and its coat remains bright. This meal is made in the USA with no fillers, artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, corn, soy, or wheat. It is a low-residue diet and hence perfect for reduced pooping. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Potatoes, Potato Protein, Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.

• Calorie Content: 410 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: Uses a single protein source to lower the risk of allergies and sensitivities.  

• Price: $54.99 per 25-lb bag ($2.19-lb).

Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Formula Turkey & Potato Recipe Adult Dry Food

Limit the chances of sensitivities and allergic reactions with this grain-free formula from The Blue Buffalo Company. It is a limited-ingredient meal targeting dogs susceptible to allergies. Turkey is the first ingredient and the only protein source for muscle power and better digestibility. The recipe has been on the market since September 23rd, 2012.

It is fiber-rich, thanks to peas, potatoes, and pumpkin. This boosts digestion and limits the frequency of pooping. This is a low-residue formula with no beef, chicken, eggs, dairy, wheat, corn, or soy.

The high levels of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants promote immunity and offer a balanced oxidative environment. Canola and fish oils provide omegas for coat and skin health, while turkey meal is rich in glucosamine for strong joints. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Potatoes, Turkey Meal, Pea Starch, Peas. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.

• Calorie Content: 352 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: Uses fewer ingredients and has no fillers, artificial additives, or grain to limit the chances of allergies and sensitivities. 

• Price: $69.98 per 24-lb bag ($2.92-lb).

Wellness CORE Ocean Whitefish, Herring, and Salmon Recipe Dry Food

Some dogs can be allergic to dairy and chicken. Such sensitivities and allergies contribute to tummy issues, including excessive pooping. This meal from Wellness has no dairy or chicken, so you can comfortably serve your allergic pup. The meal has been on the market since December 2oth, 2002. 

It is fortified with glucosamine, probiotics, omegas, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to boost joint, digestive, skin, coat, and immune wellness. The carefully selected ingredients include premium proteins, veggies, and fruits for a healthy dog. 

No fillers, meat by-products, fillers, or corn make it a low-residue formula that boosts gut wellness and reduces the chances of increased stool volume. The high-calorie content ensures your pup is active throughout the day. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: White Fish, Salmon Meal,  Herring Meal, Peas, Menhaden Fish Meal. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 7% Max.

• Calorie Content: 414 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: Packed with 100% poultry-free proteins to lower the chances of intolerances and allergies. 

• Price: $77.98 per 26-lb bag ($2.99-lb).

Farmina N&D Ocean Herring and Orange Medium & Maxi Adult Grain-Free Dry Food

This recipe from Farmina Vet Research is best for less stool. It features herring as the main ingredient for high-quality proteins to support muscle wellness. Its low carb content lowers the risk of tummy problems resulting from negative reactions. The initial manufacturing date is November 4th, 2019.

It is a low-glycemic formula, so it won’t cause spikes in your dog’s sugar levels. Additionally, the meal has no meal, by-products, or legumes and includes high levels of omegas for a bright coat and smooth skin. 

Added berries and pomegranate provide antioxidants for a balanced oxidative environment and protection against infections. Sweet potatoes are the best fiber sources for digestive health. It may, however, be a bit expensive. 

• Top 5 Ingredients: Herring, Dehydrated Herring, Sweet Potatoes, Herring Oil, Dried Whole Eggs.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 2.6% Max.

• Calorie Content: 432 kcal/cup. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 

• Key Benefit: High protein and low carb content for healthy muscles and minimal chances of stomach problems. 

• Price: $119.95 per 26.5-lb bag ($4.53-lb).

What Facts Should You Know About High-Fiber Dog Food?

Fiber is important in your dog’s body. Both grain-free and grain-inclusive formulas include fiber-rich ingredients. Such ingredients include sweet potatoes, brown rice, oat groats, and pearled barley. Veggies and fruits are also the best fiber sources. Here are the main functions of fiber in your dog’s body:

• Keeps dogs full for longer.
• Reduces the chances of colon cancer.
• Helps with weight management.
• Enhances control of blood sugar to ward off diabetes
• Helps with the intestines’ recovery from injuries or digestive problems.
• Regulate the consistency and frequency of bowel movements.
• Boost healthy intestinal PH.
• Destroy harmful gut bacteria.

Fiber has immense benefits. However, you should serve moderately as too much can escalate the tummy problem causing diarrhea and increased pooping. High-fiber foods contain approximately 4-12% fiber. Most of these foods do not require a prescription from the vet. Psyllium and flaxseed are supplemental sources of fiber. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Less Poop According to Dog Size?

Best Dog Food for Less Poop in Small-Sized Dogs

• Your Yorkshire Terrier and Shih Tzu require a high-quality meal that minimizes the frequency of pooping. Purina Beneful Chicken Grain-Free Dry Food is a low-residue formula that perfectly reduces the volume and frequency of poops in small dogs. It starts with chicken and uses high-quality ingredients like blueberries, spinach, and pumpkin for digestive, immune, and muscle health. 

What Is the Best Dog Food for Less Poop In Medium-Sized Dogs

• Give your Beagle or Australian Shepherd a happy digestive system with Merrick Duck & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Dry Food. It features real duck as the main ingredient to boost digestibility and muscle health. Sweet potatoes provide fiber for smooth digestion and limit the chances of tummy issues and excessive pooping. 

Best Dog Food for Less Poop in Large Dogs

• Large and giant dog breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog and Great Dane can experience an increased frequency of pooping. This calls for a quality recipe like the Health Extension Salmon Grain-Free Dry Food. This recipe ensures you pick fewer poop, thanks to the fresh veggies and fruits that provide fiber. Cranberries and blueberries boost immunity with their increased antioxidants. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Less Poop With Different Ingredients?

The Best Dog Food for Less Poop with Sweet Potatoes

• Ingredients like sweet potatoes are rich in fiber to support digestion. Proper digestion means fewer tummy upsets and reduced pooping frequency. Canidae Pure Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Dry Food includes sweet potatoes and starts with real salmon for digestive and immune health. It is best for sensitive pups and has antioxidants and probiotics. 

Which Is the Best Chicken-Free Dog Food for Less Stool 

• Some pups are chicken-intolerant. Intolerances cause stomach problems which may present in loose stool or increased pooping. Orijen Grain-Free Six Fish Dry Food starts with whole mackerel, and its leading ingredients are raw or fresh animal proteins for thick muscles. This low-residue meal is rich in vitamins and minerals for overall health. 

Best Dog Food for Less Poop with Pumpkin

• Like sweet potato, pumpkin is a fiber-dense ingredient that boosts digestion. Acana Grain-Free Wild Atlantic Dry Food features pumpkin among its main ingredients. It is rich in seafood proteins, making it ideal for fussy eaters. Fruits and veggies like squash, apples, and carrots provide fiber and antioxidants for gut and immune health. 

Best Foods for Different Health Conditions Similar to Less Poop

Which Is the Best Food for Pancreatitis

• Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. Common symptoms to watch out for include lethargy, fever, and an enlarged abdomen. Low-fat foods are best as they do not overwork the pancreas. Blue Buffalo Healthy Weight Life Protection Dry Food is crafted for weight management and has a low-fat content. 

Best Food for Diabetes

• Diabetes results from insulin deficiency. Increased shirts, lethargy, and weight loss characterize it. High-fiber and low-carb food are best for diabetic dogs. Fatty meals are difficult to digest and hence not best for diabetes. Ketona Chicken Dry Food is a low-carb meal with increased proteins for diabetic pups. 

Best Food for Allergies

• Allergic dogs need a limited ingredient or hypoallergenic formula. The fewer the ingredients, the easier it is to spot and avoid an allergen. Hypoallergenic meals have been broken down into tiny pieces that the immune system won’t recognize. Nature’s Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato, & Pumpkin Grain-Free Dry Food has no fillers or artificial additives for allergic dogs. 

Nutritional Needs for Less Poop

Excessive pooping stems from various factors ranging from overeating to underlying medical problems. Dogs with increased pooping require high-quality meals that provide complete and balanced nutrition. 

Proteins

They are important for strong muscles and an ideal weight. Dogs require real meat from recognizable sources. Although meat meals are protein-dense, they may be hard on your dog’s digestive system causing tummy upsets, including increased pooping. Look for easily digestible protein sources like turkey, salmon, and chicken. These proteins are broken down into amino acids that support bone and muscle functions. 

Fat

Dogs that poop frequently requires low to moderate fat content in their meals. Fatty meals may trigger stomach issues and diarrhea. Select healthy fat sources for your pup. These sources include chicken fat, salmon oil, flaxseed, and canola. They also help with skin and coat wellness. Puppies may need more fat for their high-calorie needs and brain development. 

Fiber

Formulas rich in fiber come in handy for dogs that poop frequently. Fiber supports digestion and reduces the chances of diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive pooping. Most grain-free formulas include sweet potato and pumpkin as the main fiber sources. Grain-inclusive formulas include high-quality grains like pearled barley and oat groats. 

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins A, C, and E are essential for pups with digestive problems. They promote skin, vision, and immune wellness. Fresh veggies and fruits provide vitamins and fiber. The fruits and veggies include blueberries, carrots, and apples. Minerals like calcium and phosphorus support bone and muscle power, while zinc boosts immunity. 

Main Health Concerns for Foods for Less Poop

Frequent pooping is not normal, and it requires a visit to the vet. Common underlying health problems responsible for excessive pooping are colitis and intestinal cancer. Here’s an extensive description of these health problems:

Canine Colitis

This is the inflammation of the colon. The problem is also known as large bowel diarrhea. A common symptom is straining during and after pooping. After defecation, you will also notice small semi-formed liquid stools and small amounts of bright red blood. Chronic colitis is characterized by fat or mucus in the stool. 

Your dog will need to defecate urgently and frequently. Other symptoms, though rare, include vomiting and weight loss. The main causes of colitis are infections and parasites, stress, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, and trauma. 

Reduced water absorption and decreased capacity for feces storage are both effects of colitis. This results in the common symptom of frequent, mild diarrhea.

Intestinal cancer

Though rare, this condition causes tumors in your dog’s rectum and colon. The tumors can also be found in the small intestines. The tumors can be benign or malignant. German Shepherds and Collies are susceptible to this health problem. Common symptoms include weight loss, lack of appetite, watery feces, and blood in the stool. 

It also results in tenesmus, an urgency to pass stool. Surgery is the major treatment option. 

What causes dogs to poop excessively? 

Here are the common causes of excessive pooping:

Overeating

The more food your dog consumes, the higher the urgency to poop. Serve your dog’s meals according to AAFCO feeding guidelines, and do not exceed the recommended daily intake. You should also avoid free feeding. 

Diet

An abrupt switch in your dog’s diet causes tummy problems, including excessive pooping. Introduce the meals gradually until your dog’s system adapts to the new food. 

Environmental changes

Your dog may become uneasy and alter their pooping routine due to bringing in a new person or animal, changing the way the house smells or introducing new noises.

If this is the reason for your dog’s poop, you should probably just wait. It will revert to a regular habit once it gets used to the changes.

Bacteria and stress may also lead to changes in the pooping frequency. 

How Often Does a Dog Have to Poop?

Life stage affects how often your dog poops. Although some puppies may poop twice or three times daily, most adult dogs typically do so once daily. Senior dogs may need to go out less frequently, perhaps once a day or even less frequently. Always monitor your dog for any changes. 

Does grain-free dog food cause your dog to poop more frequently?

No. One of the best diets for dogs excludes grains. When eating a grain-free diet, your dog may poop more frequently if the protein sources in its food are challenging for it to digest. Most high-quality grain-free formulas incorporate fiber-dense ingredients like sweet potatoes, which limit the risk of gastrointestinal problems. 

What can I feed my dog to make them poop less?

Give your dog a low-residue formula. This lowers the chances of frequent popping. A high-fiber meal also comes in handy as it supports smooth digestion and stool consistency. 

Do dogs poop less with better food?

Yes. Dogs poop less with high-quality foods that have no artificial additives or fillers. Low-residue formulas are the best as they do not include unhealthy ingredients responsible for tummy issues. 

Does dry food make dogs poop more?

No. Dry foods are best for less pooping. They have a low moisture content. The same nutritional benefits can be provided to your dog in a smaller serving thanks to low moisture content.

What causes a dog to poop a lot? 

Underlying health problems like colitis and intestinal cancer, an abrupt diet switch, overeating, bacteria, stress, and environmental changes are the main causes of excessive pooping. 

How many times should a dog poop a day?

Depending on their age, general health, eating habits, and food quality, dogs may poop up to five times per day. Puppies tend to poop more frequently than adults or senior dogs. 

Do dogs poop after every meal?

No. Dogs should not poop after every meal. The quantity and quality of the food, the dog’s age, and health impact how frequently your dog will poop.

Do dogs eat poop because they lack nutrients?

Yes. A nutrient deficiency frequently causes a dog’s desire to eat poop. Consuming feces is an attempt to replenish any nutrients that are lacking in them.

What vitamins do dogs need if they are eating poop?

Your pup may eat its own poop if it is deficient in certain nutrients like iron and Vitamin B. incorporate vitamin B in its food. Common sources of B vitamins include leafy veggies and peas. 

Over to You

A low-residue or high-fiber dog food formula may be the answer you’re looking for if you feel like your dog constantly needs pooping.

Royal Canin Dry Food is our top pick for the best dog food for less poop. This formula is easy to chew and digest for minimal chances of pooping. Additionally, it has an ideal ratio of antioxidants and omegas for skin, coat, and immune health. 

Wag Amazon Brand Dry Food, on the other hand, is our budget pick for the best dog food to reduce pooping if your dog needs something less expensive and easier to digest. The choice is yours.