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Dogs do many strange things! If you’ve been a pet parent for any length of time, you know what we mean! Something that really seems strange to us is when our fur babies drag their bottoms across the floor or on the grass!
However, there are also times when your female dog may scoot her bottom across the carpet. In that case, you may notice an unpleasant trail where she scooted! Yuck!
While this is strange behavior to us, there’s usually a reason your female dog may be dragging her bottom across different surfaces.
1. Impacted Anal Glands
Dogs have glands on either side of their rectums called anal glands (or anal sacs). These glands release fluid into small channels that go into the rectum when a dog poops. It’s thought the fluid helps to scent-mark a dog’s territory.
When there’s a problem with the anal glands, a dog may drag her bottom across the grass, the carpet, or other surfaces. She’s trying to find relief from anal glands that may be infected or impacted.
This is a condition that must be treated by the vet. If this condition is not treated, it can cause abscesses to form and rupture, developing into a more serious infection.
2. Tapeworm Infection
Another common cause of bottom dragging in female dogs is a tapeworm infection. Tapeworms are intestinal parasites that can cause irritation around the anus. Small segments of worms may stick to the skin in that area, causing the skin to itch.
If you notice any symptoms of tapeworm or other p infections, it’s time to call the vet. All dogs should be on a regular worming preventative that may be bought from the vet or over the counter.
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Ask a Vet Live Now3. Skin Allergy
Just like us, dogs can develop skin allergies (and other allergies) to things in their environment. Some dogs that have a skin allergy may feel the skin around their anus itch and burn. This causes the dog to find relief by scooting across various surfaces (such as your carpet!). If the itch becomes even worse, some dogs may even try to bite their rear ends.
Skin allergies that cause a female dog to scoot or bite at her rear can lead to skin infections if left untreated. What’s more, allergies can make your dog feel horrible all over. So, if your fur baby seems to have an allergy problem, it’s best to make an appointment with the vet.
The vet may run tests to see what your dog is allergic to and may treat your canine companion’s allergies with antihistamines and other allergy medications.
Summing It Up
There you have it! There are several reasons your female dog may drag her bottom. If she does this continuously, it’s best to take her to the vet. They can check for any underlying health issues and treat them. Then your fur baby will feel much better and hopefully not drag her bottom across the carpet any more!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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