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Why is my Pitbull licking a rash and rubbing her butt on the floor?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 75 lbs

What could this rash be? 3 year old female american pitbull terrior. Shes had this rash for a long time and will occasionally lick the area. Today I tried applying coconut oil to see if it would help and it seems to be helping a tiny bit. I just need to know what this could be. She also will frog crawl on the floor so maybe that causes more irritation? She also just started rubbing her butt on the floor. Her anus is red and under her tail has a little bit of less hair. Any idea? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 30th, 2017

Wow, this rash looks quite painful to Lexi! It could be due to a contact allergy or a skin infection caused by yeast or bacteria. Coconut oil likely won't fix this rash, as she will simply lick off the oil. I would not apply anymore as too much oil can lead to pancreatitis. Lexi will need to see a vet for this rash first thing tomorrow morning. The vet can diagnose what is causing the rash so she can be treated. Tonight, you can try giving her an oatmeal or Epsom salt bath which may be soothing to her.

As for rubbing her butt on the floor, that can be due to anal sac impaction or intestinal worms. The vet can also diagnose what is causing that behavior and can either express her anal sacs for you or give her a deworming treatment.
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