Why Is My Dog Scooting

Scooting is one thing many dog owners dread; it is not something anyone wants to see.

Seeing your beloved canine friend scrubbing their butt across the floor and the uncultured licking and biting that comes with it breaks the hearts of some pet owners.

However, you should know that dog scooting is not just a behavior; it is a sign that your dog is experiencing some discomfort. It is usually related to allergies, gland issues, or irritation.

In this guide, we will walk you through some of the reasons dogs scoot and what you can do to resolve the issue.

Why Is My Dog Scooting

1. Blocked Anal Sacs

Dogs have two anal sacs containing fishy, foul-smelling liquid they release when pooping. By default, the anal sacs are triggered to empty by your canine’s bowel movement.

Nevertheless, the fluid can build up if the sacs are not working well. The
sacs’ glands get inflamed, transforming the liquid into solid, thereby hindering its release.

Clogged or full sacs can be painful and become infected. We highly
recommend consulting your vet if this is the problem. Your vet can use warm compresses or antibiotic ointment to resolve the issue.

2. Parasites

One of the major causes of scooting in dogs is intestinal parasites. If the scooting problem of your dog occurs more often, chances are they are dealing with parasites.

Intestinal parasites like tapeworms and roundworms are common in dogs. Fleas are the carrier of tapeworm larvae, while puppies can get roundworm infection from their mother’s milk.

If your dog scoots for more than a day, consult your vet. Not seeing
any signs of worm does not rule out parasitic infection, as some intestinal parasites are too small to be seen.

3. Food Allergies

Food allergies are another culprit of this condition, as they can cause severe skin irritation and itching in dogs.

One of the major signs of food allergy in dogs is skin
issues. If your dog, who has no fleas, is overly itchy and scooting, chances are food allergy is the cause of the problem.

By scooting their butt, your dog might be itching due to something they have been eating.

You can be sure it is a food allergy if your dog starts scooting or the scooting frequency increases shortly after eating or going
to the bathroom.

Once you notice this, it is time to switch your dog’s food to an
allergy-friendly option.

4. Skin Irritation from Grooming

Frequently groomed dogs might experience clipper burns and irritation from perfume, sprays, and other grooming products.

If your canine friend scoots after grooming, check for razor burns and tiny nicks.

If they itch all over, the grooming product might be the cause. You can switch to hypoallergenic, skin-sensitive products to resolve this issue.

5. UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)

Sometimes, urinary tract infections can cause scooting in dogs. UTI is a less common cause of this condition, but it is a risk you should consider.

Urinary tract infection causes burning and itching when they urinate, which can make your dog
scoot.

Product Recommendation

• Heka Grain-Free Salmon, Potatoes, and Peas Dog Food: If a food allergy is the cause of your dog’s scooting problems, we highly recommend this dog food. It is made with limited ingredients, which is suitable for canines with food sensitivities. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to boost the immune system, better joint mobility, and enhance skin and coat health.

• Absolute Holistic Grain-Free Salmon and Peas Dog Food: This formula is 100 percent grain-free. It contains premium quality ingredients, all of which are locally sourced. The formula is 70 percent meat and 30 percent minerals, vitamins, and supplements. It is free of artificial coloring, flavors, and preservatives that could trigger scooting in dogs.

• NutraGold Grain-Free Whitefish and Sweet Potato Dog Food: This food is formulated to provide optimal nutrition without leaving any skin condition behind. In addition to being grain-free, it features a blend of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. It also contains natural fiber ingredients to help boost digestive health. The food has plenty of veggies and fruits, great sources of antioxidants for a healthy immune system.

• Simparica Flea and Tick Chews: This product provides maximum protection against fleas and ticks. It kills ticks, fleas, and mites for five weeks. It would stop your dog’s parasite issues.

• Tropiclean Flea and Tick Collar: This collar is made with a high-quality, safe material to help repel fleas and ticks for up to four months. It is ideal for use on dogs four months of age and above. The collar is waterproof, so your dog can use it in all weather conditions.

Although scooting is not common, noticing this issue should warrant a fix to it as soon as possible.

You can prevent it from reoccurring by feeding allergy-friendly diets and treating parasites frequently.