Dog's bum scooting
Posted: Wed Sep 13, 2017 1:40 pm
Dogs 'scooting', or dragging their bottoms along the floor, can sometimes by dismissed by owners as funny dog behaviour or mistaken as a sign of worms. However in most cases, its a sign that they're suffering from anal gland irritation - a common problem which, if untreated, can lead to some fairly unpleasant procedures at the vet clinic.
What causes it
Anal glands are triggered by the anal sphincter muscle to release a secretion which aids bowel movements. The glands can become blocked when they're not emptied completely. Without correct faecal bulk, the anal sphincter muscle is not stretched, and the glands are not forced to empty.
How to prevent it
The answer therefore is making sure your dog gets a balanced diet, high in meat and with enough faecal bulk. Supplementing these foods with uncooked bones can also help add faecal bulk and reduce the likelihood of anal gland problems.
What causes it
Anal glands are triggered by the anal sphincter muscle to release a secretion which aids bowel movements. The glands can become blocked when they're not emptied completely. Without correct faecal bulk, the anal sphincter muscle is not stretched, and the glands are not forced to empty.
How to prevent it
The answer therefore is making sure your dog gets a balanced diet, high in meat and with enough faecal bulk. Supplementing these foods with uncooked bones can also help add faecal bulk and reduce the likelihood of anal gland problems.