If you have a dog at home, you may have seen him dragging his butt across the floor a time or two. But, why exactly does he do it? Is it just a habit? It is a medical problem? Let’s find out the who, what, when and why of scooting.
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- Who – Most dogs scoot their butt on the floor at one time or another. This means small dogs, big dogs, purebred dogs and mixed breed dogs.
- What – So, what is your dog trying to say when he scoots his butt across the floor? He is sending out a signal that something is itchy or uncomfortable, usually near the anal glands. Dogs will drag their butt across the floor because they can’t easily scratch that area any other way.
- When – Dogs usually don’t give a warning sign, they just suddenly start scooting along the floor. If they do it occasionally, it is likely not a big deal. However, if they do this on a regular basis, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
- Why – Why is really the million-dollar question. There are a few reasons why your dog may be scooting his butt across the floor.
Inflamed Anal Sac
An inflamed anal sac is the most common cause of a dog butt scooting. If this is the case, there likely will be a strong odor and some discharge as well. The reason for the sac being inflamed in the first place is a whole different question. It could be that the dog is simply full or it may be some type of infection. If it is the case the dog is just full, more fiber may be needed in their diet and in the case of an infection, antibiotics are needed.
Related: Signs your Dog is in Pain
Tapeworms
Tapeworms do not always cause dogs to scoot their butt across the floor, but many dogs will because of the itchiness. Tapeworms can easily be identified by looking around the dog’s anus. In the case of tapeworms, you will see them around that area. Tapeworms are treated by a veterinarian-prescribed deworming medication.
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Fecal Contamination
Fecal contamination is when fecal matter is matted in his bottom area or around it. In this case, a little soap and warm water will clean it right off.
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