Dogs scraping their bums on the ground is a common behavior that many dog owners have witnessed. This strange behavior often leaves people wondering why dogs do it and if it’s something to be concerned about. Keep reading to learn more about the possible reasons dogs scrape their bottoms on the ground and what you can do about it.
Marking Territory
One of the most common reasons dogs scrape their bum on the ground is to mark their territory. Dogs have scent glands around their anus that release pheromones when in contact with the ground. By dragging their butt, they are able to leave their scent behind and communicate with other dogs that may pass by later.
This behavior is most often seen in male dogs that are marking their territory, though female dogs may do it on occasion as well. Unneutered males are especially prone to butt-scraping and other territorial marking behaviors like lifting their leg when urinating. It’s simply their way of letting other dogs know that they’ve been there.
Expressing Anal Glands
In addition to scent glands, dogs also have anal glands located on either side of their anus. These glands fill up with fluid that contains pheromones and other secretions. Dogs may scrape their bum along the ground in order to empty out these anal glands if they become impacted or infected.
Normally, anal glands express naturally when a dog has a bowel movement. However, some dogs have issues where the anal glands don’t empty properly. When this happens, the anal glands can become swollen and uncomfortable. Dragging their bottom on the floor may provide relief for a dog with a case of impacted anal glands.
Recurring anal gland issues or excessive butt scraping may indicate there is an underlying problem that requires veterinary attention. Dogs may need their anal glands expressed manually by a vet or groomer, or in severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Itchy or Irritated Skin
Dogs have very sensitive skin, especially around their rear ends. Allergies, parasites like fleas or mites, infections, or skin disorders can cause irritation or itchiness around a dog’s bum and anus. Scraping their bottom on the ground can provide some relief from that irritating sensation.
Some common causes of itchy skin include:
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Food allergies
- Contact allergies
- Yeast infections
- Anal sac inflammation
- Skin mites or lice
If your dog seems to be excessively bothered by their rear end, inspect the skin closely for any visible parasites, redness, irritation, or signs of infection. Contact your vet to determine the cause of the discomfort and itchiness so it can be properly treated.
Inflammation or Injury
Skin irritation and inflammation around the anus may also cause a dog to scrape their bum. This could be due to:
- An anal gland abscess
- A foreign object stuck in the fur or skin
- An insect sting or spider bite
- Rash from contact with an irritant
- Wound or trauma to the skin
Dogs may frantically try to scratch or scrape away the pain and discomfort. Seek veterinary care if you notice any wounds, swelling, or signs of injury around your dog’s hindquarters.
Painful Defecation or Urination
When dogs experience pain while pooping or peeing, they may scrape their bum on the ground afterwards in an effort to soothe the discomfort. Causes of painful urination or defecation include:
- Urinary tract infection
- Bladder or kidney stones
- Prostate disease
- Rectal ulcer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Tumor or growth in the rectum
- Hernia around the anus
If you notice signs of discomfort like vocalizing or restlessness during bathroom breaks, leaking urine, blood in the stool or urine, or difficulty defecating, seek veterinary advice right away.
Neurological Causes
In rarer cases, butt scraping may be a compulsive behavior triggered by underlying neurological issues. Some possibilities include:
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
- Seizure activity
- Hind end weakness
- Spinal injury or degeneration
- Nerve damage
Dogs with neurological conditions may not have control over the scraping behavior. If the butt scraping seems to happen suddenly with no obvious medical cause, neurology testing may be needed.
Other Possible Causes
While the above explanations cover the most common reasons for butt scraping, dogs may sometimes do it for other reasons like:
- Boredom or stress
- Attention seeking
- Need for more exercise/stimulation
- Cooling off
- Old age
- Fear/anxiety
In these cases, the behavior may be remedied by addressing the underlying issues causing the dog distress. Consult an animal behaviorist for help curbing attention-seeking or anxiety-related bottom scraping.
When to See the Vet
Occasional butt dragging is usually not a major concern as long as your dog seems comfortable otherwise. However, you should make an appointment with your vet if your dog shows any of these symptoms:
- Frequent or frantic butt scraping
- Scooting across the floor
- Visible irritation, wounds, or swelling around the anus
- Painful defecation or urination
- Blood in stool or urine
- Difficulty pooping
- Leakage of urine or feces
- Offensive anal gland odor
These signs indicate a potential medical issue requiring veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Leaving conditions like impacted anal glands, skin infections, and bladder stones untreated can lead to further pain and complications.
How to Stop Dogs From Scraping Their Bum
If your dog’s butt scraping behavior is not medically concerning, here are some tips to help curb the habit:
- Clean the area to soothe any irritation
- Gently trim fur around the anus if matted
- Add fiber to the diet to ease bowel movements
- Remove any environmental allergens
- Treat parasites like fleas
- Increase exercise and playtime
- Use pheromone sprays/diffusers to reduce stress
- Distract and redirect your dog’s attention
- Confine your dog when unsupervised
While scraping may provide temporary relief for your dog, it can exacerbate any skin irritation over time. Stopping prolonged scraping by addressing the root issue is important for your dog’s comfort.
Conclusion
Dogs perform all sorts of quirky behaviors, and scraping their bottoms on the floor is quite common. This instinctive act serves many purposes for dogs, though sometimes it indicates an underlying medical problem needing veterinary attention. By understanding what drives your dog to butt scrape, you can determine if intervention is needed. With proper treatment for any skin or health issues, your dog’s days of awkwardly scooting across your floors will be over.