Why Does My Dog Scoot?

Often we hear clients report that their dog (and sometimes their cat, although it is a lot less common in cats)  likes to drag their bottom on the floor.  Is this normal behavior?  Why do they do that?  Are they in pain?  Do they have worms?   Many times it is really an indicator of a problem with anal glands/sacs.  These little nuisances can really create frustration and misery for your pet!

At Animal Care Hospital, we evaluate and express anal sacs on a daily basis. 

The anal sacs are little balloons within the skin around the anus that fill with a sometimes thin or thick liquid that is supposed to empty when they go poop.  Most pets are able to naturally express them but some need a little help sometimes.  Think of a balloon filling up, but unable to release the pressure.   The frequency of needing them expressed varies from pet to pet.  It can be monthly, to once a year.  Some pets never have a problem with their anal glands!  (the lucky ones!)   Unfortunately for the owners, the worst part of it is the odor.  They are super stinky!

A sac left untreated when a pet is showing signs of discomfort can lead to a painful problem called an anal sac abscess, which can lead to a messy rupture.


A rule of thumb is that if your pet scoots his bottom on the floor only once or twice, then there likely is not a problem.  Continued scooting and licking without stopping is a sign that there may be discomfort and an issue developing.

The team at Animal Care Hospital is trained to manage these situations carefully.  Give us a call today if you have concerns about your pet!