Why Do Dogs Drag Their Butts on The Floor?

You may have seen your dog dragging his butt along the carpet, grass, or ground. It is referred as scooting-when your dog drags his anus along the ground. It indicates that the rear end of your pet is itchy. In this article, we’ll talk about some common causes of scooting, as well as its solution.

Why Do Dogs Scoot Across the Floor?

Scooting could be caused due to various reasons. It is always a sign of anal irritation. This irritation may be caused by inflammation or infection. Some of the common causes include allergies, excess fecal matter, tapeworms, and issues with the dog’s anal glands.

Most of the dog owners consider scooting as a behavioral problem. Dogs do so because they are uncomfortable. So, there is a need to identify the cause of this itchiness. Once you figure out what is causing the irritation, you can help your four-pawed friend to reduce the discomfort and prevent it from scooting.

Some of the most common reasons for scooting include:

1. Anal Gland Issues

Anal gland problem is the most common cause dog drag its butt. Dogs communicate with their fatty, smelly material that comes out from the anal sacs. The anal sacs are located on both sides of the dog’s anus. Sometimes these anal sacs are inflamed, blocked, or abscessed. It is a common problem of small dog breeds. It causes your dog a lot of pain and frustration. To relieve the discomfort and pain, dogs may start scooting.

Scooting is an indication of anal sac issues. Other signs include swelling of the anus, licking or chewing around the anal area, and painful defecating. The treatment of anal sac problems depends on the cause of the problem. Consult with your veterinarian about possible options of treatment. It can be treated by:

• Using antibiotics
• Surgery
• Increasing dietary fiber
• Anti-inflammatories
• Flushing the sacs
• Applying warm compresses

2. Tapeworms

Tapeworms are another common cause of scooting in dogs. The flea enters your dog’s intestine by ingesting contaminated food. This flea gets mature in dog’s intestine, and segments of tapeworm cause perianal irritation. These small segments can be observed around the dog’s anus and in its fecal material (tiny white golden colored rice or seed-like objects).

Tapeworm segments are not passed consistently, so they can be missed during routine fecal examinations. If you observe any tiny white or golden seed-like objects, you should bring them to your veterinarian for analysis. If confirmed as tapeworms, the vet can prescribe de-worming treatments. Dewormer containing praziquantel is effective against tapeworms.

3. Excess Fecal Matter

A bout of diarrhea makes the dog weak, dehydrated, and with a matted, messy bottom. It is known as Canine Pseudocoprostasis (dingleberries). It causes intense irritation and discomfort, and the dog starts scooting to find relief. Scooting is a dog’s way to shake loose the excess fecal matter around its anus. This fecal material may harbor several bacteria and may lead to infection. Especially long-haired dogs are susceptible to this problem.

This issue can be resolved by trimming the dirty hair around the anus. Be very careful to avoid cutting the skin. Clean the area with warm water and disinfect it. If the diarrhea is persistent, it may cause severe dehydration. It is a life-threatening condition. In this case, consult your veterinarian right away.

4. Allergies

Skin allergies cause significant irritation of an area, and dogs can scoot to find relief. Several factors, such as parasites, food, and environmental allergens, can cause allergic reactions. Your dog can experience discomfort and starts to drag its bottom on the ground.

Some common causes of allergic reactions are fleas, mold spores, pollens, cigarette smoke, drugs, and food. It is hard to find out the allergic reactions. Consult your veterinarian to help you identify the allergens that affect your dog and its solution.

5. Rectal Prolapse

Sometimes, a portion of your dog’s intestine may protrude through the anus. It may be caused by straining with constipation or severe diarrhea. It may also cause scooting. If you observe a cylindrical, elongated mass coming out from your dog’s anus, visit your vet immediately. It is a sign of rectal prolapse. It may also cause scooting. After replacing the prolapse, your veterinarian may:

• Recommend surgery
• Treat constipation
• Suggest a moist diet to decrease straining
• Stitch your dog's anus partially to prevent prolapse

How to Reduce Scooting

Scooting itself is not a medical emergency, but the problems associated with it can be painful, messy, and smelly business for your companion animal. If your four-pawed friend is persistently licking or scooting, it could be a stressful and uncomfortable situation for your pet. A quick visit to your vet can make you, your dog, and maybe your carpet a lot happier.