If you’ve ever seen your dog dragging their bottom across the ground, you’re witnessing a behaviour called ‘dog scooting.
While it might look funny or strange, scooting can mean there’s something wrong with your pup that needs attention ASAP. So, let’s find out why dogs scoot, what health issues might be causing it, and how you can help your pup.
What is dog scooting?
Dog scooting is when a dog drags its rear end along the ground. This often means that something is bothering them back there, like an itch or irritation.
Common reasons for your dog scooting on their butt
There are quite a few reasons that dogs scoot their bums along the ground. The most common one is probably anal glands, but let’s look at all the usual suspects.
Anal gland issues
One of the main reasons dogs scoot is because of problems with their anal glands. These are two small glands on either side of your dog’s anus that produce a smelly fluid. Sometimes, these glands can get full, infected, or blocked, causing discomfort and possibly leading to anal sac disease.
Products like Glandex can help keep these glands healthy, including anal wipes for any stinky discharge.
Worms and parasites
Sometimes, intestinal parasites, like tapeworms or roundworms, can make your dog’s rear end itchy. If you think your dog might have worms, take them to the vet for treatment. Regular deworming can help keep these pests away.
Allergies
Dogs can have allergies to food, their environment, or certain substances. These allergies can make their skin itchy, including around their bum. Identifying what your dog is allergic to and avoiding it can help stop the scooting.
Skin irritations and infections
Skin problems, like infections or irritations from grooming, can also cause scooting. Keeping your dog clean and treating any infections quickly can prevent this.
Faecal residue
Sometimes, bits of poop get stuck in your dog’s fur after they go to the bathroom, especially if they have a long coat that isn’t trimmed around the area. This can irritate them and cause scooting. Regular grooming, trimming the area, and cleaning can help prevent this.
Rectal problems & injuries
There are actually quite a number of diseases around a dog’s rectoanal area that cause them discomfort and make the scoot. Cuts or injuries around the rectal area can make your dog uncomfortable, especially if they get infected or itchy, as can anything obstructing the area.
Though it’s rare, sometimes a part of your dog’s rectum can stick out through their anus, causing discomfort and scooting, called a rectal prolapse. This is a serious condition that needs immediate vet care.
Since there really are quite a few different issues in the rectum that can bother your dog, if they seem to be constantly scooting, or if you notice anything odd around their bums, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, it’s best to see a vet.
Other causes of dog scooting
Besides the common causes, there are a few other reasons your dog might be scooting:
- Female dogs can get inflammation in their vaginal area, called vaginitis, causing them to scoot to relieve the itch.
- Lumps or growths around the anus can cause irritation and lead to scooting. It’s important to have any unusual lumps checked by a vet.
- Severe constipation can sometimes also cause scooting in some cases. Check out Nature’s Paw Probiotics to help get your dog’s gut healthy again.
Diagnosing dogs scooting
If your dog is scooting a lot, it’s important to figure out why. Here’s how you can do that:
- Look for any signs of irritation, swelling, or discharge on your dog’s rear end.
- Let your vet do a thorough exam and might express the anal glands if needed. You can learn to do this yourself but know that it’s not pleasant.
- Your vet might suggest tests like faecal exams to check for parasites or blood tests to find out if there are allergies.
Treating and preventing your dog scooting on their butt
So, we’ve gone over the main causes of scooting, now let’s look at what to do about this.
Expressing anal glands
If anal gland problems are causing the scooting, your vet or a professional dog groomer can express the glands to relieve the discomfort. Some dogs might need this done regularly.
Deworming and parasite control
Regular deworming can keep parasites from bothering your dog, so make sure your dog is on a vet-recommended parasite control plan. Luckily, dewormers are quickly and easily ordered on Pet Chemist.
Allergy management
Figuring out what your dog is allergic to and managing it is crucial. This might mean changing their diet, giving them medication, or making changes to their environment.
Skin care
Keep your dog’s rear end clean, dry and free of matting. Regular grooming and watching for signs of infection can help prevent skin problems, as can trimming the hair away from the area around the rectum. Most doggy parlours will do this as part of a professional groom.
Dietary adjustments
A diet high in fibre can help your dog have regular bowel movements, which reduces the risk of constipation and scooting and you can check out Glandex Anal Support Supplements as these high-fibre chews can help the anal glands express naturally when your dog poops.
Home remedies for dog scooting
While it’s important to see a vet, there are some things you can do at home to help:
- Use a warm, damp cloth or compress to soothe the area.
- Adding fibre to your dog’s diet can help with digestion can add bulk to their poop, which can help them express their anal glands naturally
- Use pet-safe wipes to keep the area clean and make sure to groom and trim the area carefully.
When to see the vet
If your dog is scooting a lot or seems really uncomfortable, has blood, swelling, or a bad smell coming from their rear end, it’s time to see the vet. Catching problems early can prevent bigger health issues and keep your dog comfortable.
Dog scooting might look funny, but it’s often a sign that something’s wrong. By knowing the common causes and taking steps to address them, you can help your dog stay happy and healthy. Regular vet visits, good grooming, and a healthy diet are key to preventing and managing scooting.
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