You’ve likely heard the myth that a butt-scooting dog has fecal parasites. The thought behind this myth is that the presence of parasites could cause the dog’s behind to be itchy, similar to pinworms in people. The truth, however, is that most dogs who butt-scoot regularly are doing so because of allergies or issues with their anal sacs.
It’s completely normal for your puppy to scoot on occasion. Sometimes an itch must be scratched! But if you’re noticing an increase in how often your young dog is butt-scooting, it’s time to consider allergies or anal sac conditions.
Allergies as a cause for butt-scooting in young dogs
Allergies in dogs can cause skin inflammation and itchiness, sometimes affecting the skin of the perineum. Allergies can also present as anal sac issues. If your dog is scooting, you’ll want to look at their behind. If their skin looks inflamed around their perineum or elsewhere on the body, then you should seek veterinary attention to address potential allergies. Allergies in dogs can occur due to environmental allergens (pollens, molds, dust mites, etc.), food allergens and parasites like fleas.
Anal sacs as a cause of butt-scooting in young dogs
Your dog’s anal sacs are located on each side of the anus, one at around the 4 p.m. position and the other at around the 8 p.m. position. Most dogs express their anal sacs on their own during bowel movements. However, anal sacs can become inflamed due to allergies or infections, which may cause difficulty with emptying the sacs. Over time, an inflamed anal sac may become impacted, meaning it cannot be expressed. Because of the swelling, the anal sac may eventually rupture, causing a wound next to the anus. If you see visible swelling on one or both sides of the anus, smell a fishy odor, see bleeding from next to the anus or see a wound next to the anus, it’s a good idea to contact your VCA care team for an evaluation.
Anal sac tumors as a cause for butt-scooting
Butt-scooting can also occur in dogs who have tumors of their anal sacs or around their anus. This would be unlikely in a young dog. Most dogs with anal sac cancer average around 10 years of age.
Contact your VCA care team if you have concerns about your puppy’s butt scooting. Your VCA care team is happy to help you find the underlying cause and develop a management strategy to provide your bestie with some relief.
