Why Is My Dog Scooting? Common Causes and When to See a Vet

If you have ever seen your dog suddenly drag their rear end across the carpet, lawn, or, unfortunately, your favorite rug, you are not alone. While often seen as an awkward or humorous behavior, bottom scooting usually indicates that something in that area is itchy, irritated, or uncomfortable. While it can occasionally be harmless, scooting is frequently your dog’s way of communicating that something is not quite right.

Below, we break down the most common reasons dogs scoot and how to know when it is time to call your veterinarian.

Anal glands are two small sacs located just inside your dog’s anus. These glands normally empty on their own during bowel movements; however, they sometimes fail to express properly. When they do not empty, the sacs can become full, impacted, or even infected.

Symptoms of anal gland issues include:

• Scooting and dragging the rear.
• Itching or burning sensations.
• Excessive licking of the rear end.
• A strong, fishy odor.

If left untreated, impacted glands can develop into painful abscesses. If an abscess occurs, a veterinarian must lance and drain it, typically followed by a course of antibiotics and pain medication. Dogs with frequent issues may benefit from manual expression by a veterinarian or dietary changes if the root cause is linked to food or environmental allergies.

For a deeper dive into this topic, read our blog: The Stinky Truth: Understanding and Managing Anal Glands in Pets.

Worms, specifically tapeworms, can cause significant irritation around the anus, leading to scooting. Owners may notice small, rice-like segments near the rectum or in the dog's stool.

Other signs of a tapeworm infection include:

• Weight loss despite maintaining a good appetite.
• Diarrhea or soft stools. Regular fecal exams and routine deworming are essential to preventing parasite-related discomfort.

Dogs suffering from allergies often experience itchy skin across their entire body, including the rear end. These reactions can be triggered by specific proteins or ingredients in food, or environmental factors like pollen, grasses, molds, and dust mites.

In these cases, scooting is often accompanied by other symptoms such as ear infections, paw licking, or generalized itching. Managing these cases typically requires a combination of diet trials, medication, and environmental control.

Learn more in the first part of our series: Scratching the Itch: Understanding Allergies In Your Pets.

Fleas tend to bite around the tail base and rear end. For sensitive dogs, even a single flea bite can trigger intense itching.

Look for these signs of flea activity:

• Sudden itching or scooting near the tail.
• Hair loss or scabs at the base of the tail.
• Visible fleas or "flea dirt" (small black specks) in the fur. The easiest way to eliminate this cause is through year-round flea prevention.

Scooting isn’t always related to glands or parasites. Other physical irritants can prompt a dog to "scratch the itch" by scooting:

• Grooming Issues: Matted fur or fecal matter stuck around the anus.
• Skin Problems: Localized skin infections, rectal irritation, or small wounds.
• Medical Conditions: Perianal fistulas.
• Conformation: Physical structure issues, which are more common in small or overweight dogs.

While occasional scooting may happen, frequent or persistent behavior is not normal. You should schedule a veterinary visit immediately if:

• The scooting happens repeatedly.
• Your dog appears lethargic or in pain.
• You notice swelling, discharge, or a foul odor.
• Scooting is paired with vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss.

Early intervention can prevent minor irritation from escalating into a painful medical problem.

Scooting is your dog’s way of saying, “Hey, something back here doesn’t feel right”. Whether the cause is anal gland trouble, allergies, or parasites, most cases are highly treatable once identified. If your dog is struggling with discomfort, Ruby Veterinary Urgent Care can help them get back to feeling their best – and keep your carpets safe in the process!