Showing posts with label dog scooting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog scooting. Show all posts
Sunday, December 30, 2012

Dog Dragging Butt on Carpet


Many clients have wondered "why is my dog dragging his butt" leaving nasty marks on the carpet?  While it might seem odd or amusing, the dog is uncomfortable and trying to relieve the itch or pain.  Thus, it's  important to understand what causes dog butt scooting, so that you can help them feel better. 

What Causes Butt Scooting In Dogs?

There are various reasons why dogs drag their butts on the ground, carpet or floor. Here are some common reasons why dog butt scooting:

Anal Gland Issues - Your dog has small sacs, located on either side of the anus, that can become impacted or infected, leading to discomfort.  Dog butt scooting may be an attempt to express their anal glands and relieve the discomfort. In healthy dogs, these glands empty naturally during bowel movements, but some dogs may require manual expression if their glands do not empty adequately on their own.

  • Treatment: Expressing the anal glands may be necessary. This can be done manually by a veterinarian. In severe cases or recurrent issues, dietary adjustments or fiber supplements might help regulate bowel movements and promote natural expression. 

Worm Infestation- Intestinal parasites, such as tapeworms, can be irritating around the anus, leading to your dog butt scooting. If you look closely, visible segments of tapeworms may also be present in the feces or around the anal area.

  • Treatment: Deworming medications prescribed by a veterinarian can address the underlying parasitic infection. Regular parasite prevention measures are essential for long-term health.

Allergies or Skin Irritation- Skin allergies or irritation, particularly around the anal area are a common reason why a dog is dragging his butt.  This may be a result of an allergic reaction to food, environmental factors, or contact irritants that may contribute to discomfort.

  • Treatment: Identify and address the underlying allergy. This may involve changing the dog's diet, using hypoallergenic grooming products, and addressing environmental factors. Topical or oral medications or supplements can help relieve itching.

Fecal Contamination- Residue from feces left around the anal area can cause itching and discomfort, leading to scooting.

  • Treatment: Ensure thorough cleaning of the anal area after bowel movements. Regular bathing and maintaining good hygiene practices can prevent fecal contamination.

Perianal Fistula- This is a painful condition involving the formation of tracts or openings in the skin around the anus. Dogs with perianal fistulas may scoot as a response to the pain and discomfort.

  • Treatment: May require surgical intervention, and medications, such as immunosuppressants or antibiotics, to manage inflammation and infection. It is important to see your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Rectal Prolapse- Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum protrudes through the anus. This condition is painful and may cause scooting. 

  • Treatment: Rectal prolapse often requires immediate veterinary attention. Treatment may involve manual reduction of the prolapse and addressing the underlying cause, which can include dietary adjustments, medication, or surgical intervention. 

Infections or Tumors- Infections or tumors in the anal or perianal area can lead to discomfort and scooting. 

  • Treatment: Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve antibiotics for infections or surgery for tumor removal. Your veterinarian will be able to accurately diagnose your dog and help formulate a treatment plan. 

These are all reasons why dogs drag their butts and it's best to consult with a veterinarian for a thorough examination and diagnosis. The underlying cause may vary, and proper treatment will depend on the specific issue identified.


Natural Remedies For Butt Scooting In Dogs

Fortunately, veterinary-approved probiotic supplements such as Power Probiotic can stop the scooting and dragging of the rear-end.

What we have found is that dogs that have anal sac problems can frequently have an allergy to food and also need digestive support.  Many times dogs that are scooting and dragging their butt also are itching, getting ear infections, and may have bouts of loose stool and gas. . Once you address the dietary issue and add the natural supplements, the problem usually goes away. 

The first step is to add the Power Probiotic to your dog's regimen.  This will repopulate good flora in your dog's intestines, boosting immune function and reducing odors overall.   Power Probiotic is a veterinary-approved probiotic that is 3rd party tested for potency and is easy to give both cats and dogs--just open the capsule and sprinkle on food.  Even if you have tried other probiotics, this one will greatly help to improve the dragging and scooting and digestive problems.

Feeding a low carbohydrate, novel protein diet is also helpful for dog butt scooting.  Raw frozen diets are the gold standard for dogs with allergy problems.  They contain vegetables, omegas and a variety of protein options--without the high carbohydrate content.  Adding fiber in the form of pumpkin, squash or other pet fiber products can greatly help. Dogs that have anal sac issues are often eating dry kibble that is high in carbohydrates which can lead to yeast, allergic reactions and itching.

Use natural dog allergy supplements such as AllerEaze which helps to reduce itching and allergic response.  K9 Yeast Defense would also help as many times dogs are licking and chewing on their butt and groin due to allergies.  Many dogs that have ear infections and are licking at their genitals have an overgrowth of yeast.  The K9 Yeast Defense can give your dog relief in a few days. 

If a dog is dragging their butt or displaying butt-scooting behavior, see your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and make a treatment plan that includes both conventional and natural remedies. 
 



Author:  Diane Messenger
Originally Posted:  12/30/2012
Revised and Updated:  3/6/2024