Why is my dog scooting? Understanding the causes and what to do

Well, there it is: your dog is acting normal one moment, and now they're rubbing their bottom on the floor. Why does this happen (and why do dogs choose the most embarrassing moments to do it)?

Now, we can't comment on your dog's comedic timing, but occasional scooting is not uncommon.

"Occasional" is a keyword here, as excessive, persistent scooting does indicate a deeper problem. It's a symptom of quite a few issues that need professional attention.

So, what is butt scooting in dogs, why do dogs do it and when should you worry? Let's find out.

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What's dog scooting?

Scooting is when your dog drags their bottom across the ground. It can happen outside or on your brand-new carpet - dogs don't really mind where they do it.

It's a common behaviour and symptom. It's important not to confuse scooting as a condition; it's a sign something else is going on. You may also see a dog chew and lick down below, smell a foul odour or they could just seem very irritated.

Why do dogs scoot? Common causes

Allergies

Scooting may be a reaction to skin irritation due to allergies. It's likely this if you notice scooting with signs like:

• Ear infections

• Gastrointestinal upset

• Generalised itching

• Paw licking

• Skin rashes

• Skin irritation or infection

Like allergies, skin irritation due to infection around the dog's bottom can cause scooting. It's usually due to hygiene or grooming issues, such as a clipper rash, moisture or irritation from faecal residue.

Signs include:

• Inflammation

• Matting around the anus

• Redness

• Unpleasant odour

• Visible sores

Anal gland issues

This is the most common reason dogs scoot. Impacted, infected or full anal glands are very irritating for dogs. In healthy pups, the glands are there for scent-marking purposes, releasing when a dog poops. It's also why dogs sniff each other's butts sometimes.

Beyond scooting, signs that your dog has anal gland issues could include:

• Defecation problems

• Excessive chewing or licking

• Foul/fishy odour

• Redness and swelling

• Signs of pain and irritation

You must see a vet if you suspect your dog has anal gland problems. Our anal gland infection guide discusses more, but please see a vet as soon as you notice signs of discomfort.

Other medical issues (less common but serious)

Scooting could also be a symptom of issues like:

• Anal gland abscesses - these can rupture.

• Perianal fistulas - this causes chronic inflammation and ulceration.

• Rectal prolapse - an urgent, life-threatening condition.

• Tumours or growths - symptoms of a deeper, more serious issue.

• Urinary tract infection (especially in female dogs) - these can range in severity.

All of these issues are considered serious, and you must see a vet if you notice them, especially rectal prolapse.

Worms or parasites

Dogs may scoot if they're struggling with intestinal parasites. There are numerous parasites dogs can get, but scooting is closely associated with tapeworms.

The symptoms to look out for are:

• Appetite changes

• Dull coat

• Unexplained weight loss

• Visible worms/segments in stool

Our how to cure worms in dogs guide can definitely help, and you should look into our Flea, Tick and Worm Plan.

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If you're asking "my dog has been wormed but is still scooting", then there are a few possible outcomes:

• They're facing a parasite problem that your worming medication doesn't treat.

• It's a reinfestation that worming medication has missed.

• It's a different issue, like the ones we listed above.

When to worry about dog scooting: warning signs & red flags

Occasional scooting isn't anything to worry about. But persistent scooting, especially if it is multiple times a day, warrants investigation.

Key warning signs that need immediate veterinary attention are:

• Any signs of rectal prolapse, which looks like a red, pink or dark mass near your dog's bottom.

• Bleeding or discharge from your dog’s anus.

• Excessive straining or an inability to poop.

• Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or vomiting.

• Severe redness, swelling or a painful lump near the anus.

• Signs of severe pain, like a dog crying out when touched or trying to sit.

How to help a scooting dog at home (after vet consultation)

You must see a vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. But after that, you may need to manage the condition long-term.

Elements of long-term treatment, like gland expression, must be done by a trained groomer or a vet.

But things you can do at home include:

• Dietary changes, like adding fibre-rich food or a pet-safe fibre supplement to make pooping easier. Our guide on pet nutrition can help here.

• Hygiene changes, like more grooming or gentle cleaning of the anal area with warm water or pet-safe wipes.

• Probiotics and prebiotics to improve gut health, which improves stool quality.

• Warm compresses to help with irritation.

You must avoid doing anal gland expression yourself; it's a risky procedure best performed by a professional.

How to prevent scooting in dogs

So, as we can see, scooting is best avoided, but how do we do that? There are a few preventative measures you can take, like:

• A consistent, balanced diet with plenty of fibre.

• Regular deworming.

• Regular at-home and professional grooming sessions.

• Routine vet care.

• The right level of water intake.

• Trimming hair near a dog's bottom, especially if yours is a long-haired breed.

• Weight management as obesity and lack of muscle tone can worsen anal gland issues.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dog scooting

Can I express my dog's anal glands myself?

No, you shouldn't. We only recommend that a professional groomer who offers these services or a vet does this.

How often should a dog's anal glands be expressed?

Only when they're needed and on a vet's recommendation. This shouldn't happen on a schedule. Some dogs may never need their glands expressed, whereas others could require it regularly.

What does dog anal gland fluid smell like?

It's a fishy, foul smell.

Can scooting be a behavioural issue?

It can. But this is very rare, and it's better to rule out medical reasons first.

What's the best dog food for a dog that scoots?

High-fibre foods or pet-safe fibre supplements. Speak to your vet for advice.

Why is my dog scooting after grooming?

There could be a few reasons for this, like irritation from clippers, product residue or discomfort from having their glands recently expressed. Keep an eye on it and see your vet if it continues.

Are certain dog breeds more prone to scooting?

Yes, smaller breeds tend to struggle with scooting more than bigger ones, but any breed could be affected.

How dog insurance helps

Dog insurance can help you prepare for the unexpected, like complications that result in your dog's chronic scooting.

We have up to £20,000 vet fee cover on our Complete Care plan, 24/7 video vet access on all of our plans and a host of ManyPets Perks.

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