Why is my dog dragging his butt on the floor? When to see a vet?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Davis

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 4th, 2017

  Usually dragging the bottom on the ground is a sign of having full anal sacs. Anal sacs are two fluid filled sacs, scent glands similar to a skunk, on each side of the anal opening. They usually empty when the dog goes to the bathroom. Sometime the small openings get plugged and the fluid inside builds up and can cause irritation and infection. When the sacs are full they cause itching so dogs often lick the area and scoot on the ground. Please take Alfie to your veterinarian. They will express the fluid from the sacs and put him on antibiotics is there is an infection. If the fluid is not emptied sometime dogs will get an anal abscess that will rupture through the skin and be very painful. The other reason for dragging would be if Alfie has tapeworm segments around the tail area. These are small rice like segments that come out the anus and attach to the fur. Treating for tapeworms will resolve this. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Alfie.

  

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• Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on January 29th, 2019

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is in fact likely due to the anal sacs which could be impacted or infected for example. This is something that if it continues, it warrants an evaluation by a veterinarian. It may resolve on its own. Best of luck!

  

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