Dog Leaving Bits of Poop After Licking Her Bottom and Scooting: What Causes It?
by Deb
(Bethlehem, PA)
Licking around the anus and scooting along the carpet are classic signs of irritation in that area, most often from the anal glands. When the glands are full, inflamed or infected, the area becomes itchy and sore, and some dogs leave small bits of stool behind as they lick and fuss. Skin allergies, worms and irritation from soft stool can cause the same signs.
Book a vet visit. Your vet will check and, if needed, empty the anal glands, look for infection or an abscess, and feel for swelling. In middle-aged and older dogs, a rectal exam is also important because anal gland tumors can first show up this way, and they’re easier to treat when found early.
If the problem is the glands or skin, treatment usually clears up the scooting and the stray bits of stool. If stool keeps leaking once the area is comfortable, ask your vet to check the anal sphincter and nerves. See our guides to anal gland problems and bowel incontinence in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Incontinence.
