Why Is My Dog Rubbing Their Bum On The Floor?

 

Estimated Read Time: 3 ½ minutes

Summary: “My dog drags his bum on the floor!” – Fear not, fellow pet-parent, in this blog we learn all about why dogs scoot, rub, drag and/or wipe their bum on the floor. We’ll find out the potential reasons why dogs sometimes drag their bums along the floor and how to help rectify the issue…

 

Why Do Dogs Scoot, Rub Or Drag Their Bum On Floors?

First things first; if your dog is scooting, rubbing or wiping their rear end along the floor it’s usually always worth visiting the vet as this is often a sign of discomfort or even pain in a pup. The potential reasons your dog is dragging their bum on the floor include;

They May Have Clogged Anal Sacs

Your pup, like every other canine, has two anal glands on their rear end. When a dog poops, these glands release a pungent, unique liquid that’s designed to tell other dogs who the poop belongs to (that’s why they usually love to sniff it!) When these sacs become clogged or have been damaged, a dog may scoot across the floor to help relieve the discomfort they’re experiencing and they’re trusting you to notice them do it so you can help them out! Get them seen by a vet, who will diagnose and treat any damage or simply help unclog them for your pooch. 

They’re Irritated By A New Product

Whether your dog gets groomed regularly or you’ve switched up their shampoo, if your vet is satisfied with the state of your dog’s anal sacs then it might be time to address what new hygiene products, detergents, sprays or scents they’ve been in contact with recently. If you have a dog groomer, ask them if anything has changed in their product line too as it may be that your dog is scooting because they’re experiencing an irritation.

They May Have Worms

Worms and other parasites can irritate your dog’s anal glands. It is an essential part of owning a dog that you administer regular, de-worming treatment to them. This protects them, your home, your family, and your community from the different types of intestinal worms in dogs. Consult with your vet over which is the best course for your pooch, as there is a variety of prevention methods available from injection and tablet forms to spot-on treatments. Effective, regular flea prevention is also vital for your dog’s health. Preventative measures like these can help stop your dog’s anal sacs from becoming irritated which can cause them to scoot, drag and wipe their bum.

They’re Lacking Fibre In Their Diet

A dog’s stool consistency and shape can be affected by the amount of fibre they’re getting through their diet. Fibre can help the anal sacs drain efficiently and properly. An ideal dog’s diet should contain between 2-5% fibre (but shouldn’t exceed 10%). It’s argued that many dogs don’t get enough fibre in their diets. Try adding chopped up or grated carrot to their food bowl, or a handful of blueberries, cut up apple (without the core or pips!), cooked sweet potato or green beans to help with their daily fibre intake. 

Just make sure to avoid the following foods, as there are some human foods that are known to be toxic to dogs:

They May Have A Food Allergy

If you’ve recently changed your dog’s food or introduced them to something new in their diet, this may have caused a reaction and thus caused the anal sacs to become inflamed or irritated. 

Always Check In With The Vet

If your dog’s dragging their bum on the floor, it’s imperative you have them checked over by the vet before coming to conclusions yourself. Only a qualified, professional and reputable veterinarian can determine the exact cause of a dog’s need to scoot, wipe or rub their bum along the floor.

Sources

“Why Does My Dog Rub Their Bum On The Floor?” Tails, Sep 27. 2021 https://tails.com/blog/2021/09/27/why-does-my-dog-rub-their-bum-on-the-floor/