Below may not be the only reasons for the “butt rub” but they are certainly things to watch for. Remember, it may not be just a comical or mortifying experience but a medical problem for your pup.
Anal Glands
Dogs and cats both have special glands located just inside their anus. These glands are called anal glands and they release a very stinky and strong smelling secretion. The fluid released from your pets' anal glands comes out naturally when they use bathroom. It helps them mark their territory.Sometimes, the fluid in these glands becomes thick and pasty and gets stuck. This can cause problems for your pet because it can be uncomfortable or even rupture. In an attempt to relieve themselves, your dog or cat might start butt scooting. This is a big sign that your pet's anal glands need to be expressed.
Here's a tutorial on how to do it yourself, if you're feeling brave. If not, most groomers and veterinarians offer this service.
Tapeworms
I'd say the 2nd most common reason for butt scooting is tapeworms. After all, no one wants worms coming out of their butt so I think butt scooting is acceptable, if you're a dog or cat.Tapeworms are easy to diagnose and get rid off. Usually a single pill or injection of Praziquantel from your vet will clear them up.
I remember watching a TV advertisement showing a pup doing the butt-drag and we thought it was very funny. Never, we thought, would our dog do such a thing. Then one day he did the same thing after coming in from outside!
It is now nice to know there are various reasons for his behavior – although we’ve determined it’s merely an itchy butt!
Go to My Pawsitively Pets to read more!
Sue Adensam Bergemann
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It is difficult to pick them up this way as well!
Edwina Inman Monroe
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Butt dragging combined with scratching of the ears can also mean an allergy. My dog was doing this and the vet suggested she might be allergic to wheat…..sure enough, when we stopped giving her food with wheat in it, she stopped the behavior. So if all else fails, you might want to check this.
Russell Terry Bell
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Our Scottie used to do it. Scotties have a tendency to get impacted, so when we saw it we called the vet.
Angie Weigal
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Sometimes it’s just itchy!
Liz Acosta
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Pugs have gland isses
Angela Cummings
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When Georgia Mae does it, it’s time to go to the vet and spend mommies money LaTasha Cummings
Rista Chutoo
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Bhavna Chutoo
Kelly Downing Bertrum
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My pug did do that. But I had her 2 yrs only did it once
Barb Conroy
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Their$#%&!@*sacs need expressing, when they drag their rears on the floor. hAve had pugs for many years and this is very common, especially in the smaller breeds.
Theresa A Henderson
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My super long hair doxie was doing this when she had little tangles and matts in the hair on the backs of her hind legs . We get her a “summer-cut” in the late spring because she’s too hot in summer with the long hair, plus she’s a digger and comes in way to dirty otherwise.
Christopher Tobin
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Connie
Connie Tobin
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Thank you
Christopher Tobin
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Connie Tobin You’re welcoem
Adam Baker
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Dianne Merritt Lyn Baker