I have a 7 yo Basenji who is very attached to me and has lived with me since 9 weeks old. Lately, he refuses to poop when we go out for walks. He goes right away if my father or friends walk him. Since I live alone, it isn’t always possible to get someone else to take him out so he ends up just farting for hours. Changing or repeating locations or schedules seems to make no difference. Any advice?

Has something happened that makes him think you don't want him to poop? It's not unusual for Basenjis to be difficult about defecation, but this situation where the problem seems to be confined to you seems odd. Did he perhaps have an "accident" in the house that you chastised him for, or something of that nature? Alternatively, did something happen on a walk with you that frightened him just as he was "finding the right spot"?

You could try matching him (use a paper match or similar to stimulate the anus) and perhaps get him back into the routine of pooping when you are walking him.

Basenjis can be kind of odd about pooping. Some are fine, although most seem to dislike rain so they don’t want to hang around and poop if it’s raining.

Out of my three dogs, my latest one will not poop on a walk unless he knows we are headed back to the car. He will hold it until we turn around or he is sure that we are headed home. Kind of odd really, but they do have their quirks.

If this has only just started after all this time. I would think that somehow you've given him the message that you don't approve. Are you able to identify any incident?

How long last your walks?

I just have to say that I am glad to find out that Basenji's are ones to not poo on command. Mine can hold it and hold it and HOLD IT which I always found strange. Now I know it's "normal". He also likes to be discreet about it. They certainly are quirky but I wouldn't have any other breed!

And just to comment on the rain - he's a not normal Basenji! That's when he walks the longest and farthest, I figure it somehow brings out the hunt instinct in him. I know any time it's pouring, I'm in for an hour walk. On a bright and sunny day, it's out the front door - survey the surroundings - back inside. Go figure!

Basenjis can also change their mind, even when they have "found the spot" and "assumed the position", if something distracting comes along. I have witnessed poop starting to appear, only to be sucked back inside because my dog spotted something disconcerting or interesting. Basenjis can be very frustrating at times! (usually when one is in a hurry to get things over with)

@eeeefarm said in Why Won’t My Basenji Poop for Me:

Basenjis can also change their mind, even when they have "found the spot" and "assumed the position", if something distracting comes along. I have witnessed poop starting to appear, only to be sucked back inside because my dog spotted something disconcerting or interesting. Basenjis can be very frustrating at times! (usually when one is in a hurry to get things over with)

It is a remarkable talent for sure!

You aren’t walking him far enough. He will go if you extend your walk. Also keep a treat in your pocket to reward him after he goes.