Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why is my dog scooting with bloody diarrhea? Anal fistula or fissure?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 11 months old | 108 lbs

7 months ago took dog to vet. He took half a second and said dog had anal fissure.. prescription of amoxicillin and carprofen.. problem solved in about 4 days. This past week my dog scoots around for like 45 minutes and just drops of diarrhea. Little blood too.. there's like a hundred different small spots of diarrhea when I come home all over the place.. what's the difference between anal fistula and anal fissure? He told me 7 months ago my dog breed and his she are notorious for this..

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Rebecca, DVM

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2018

Hi, thank you for using PetCoach. It sounds like Jake may have perianal fistulas which is a common problem in German Shepherds. This often requires long term management, chronic medications and in some cases may require surgery. I strongly recommend taking Jake to a vet for further diagnostics and treatment. Here's a little more info https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/perianal-fistula-in-dogs
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952922
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button