When Your Old Dog Starts Scooting

If an older dog is scooting (dragging their bottom along the floor), it’s usually a sign something is irritating their rear end. In senior dogs, it’s worth paying closer attention! Common scooting issues in older dogs are the following:

Impaction: This is the most common issue. The fluid in the sacs thickens and the sacs become clogged, hard, and uncomfortable. The dog's stools may not be firm enough to create the necessary pressure for the sacs to empty, or the ducts themselves may be narrow or blocked.

Infection:  When the sacs are impacted, bacteria can build up and cause an infection. This can progress to an abscess, which is a very painful, pus-filled swelling. If left untreated, an abscess can rupture, causing a painful open wound.

Adenocarcinoma: This is a more serious but less common issue, and it is more prevalent in older, female dogs. The symptoms can be similar to other anal gland problems, but the sac will often be firm and non-expressible. It's crucial to have any suspicious swelling checked by a vet.

What you can do

• Check for visible irritation, swelling, or debris: any signs that could be causing discomfort.
• Make sure the area is clean and not matted: gently check for dried feces, dirt, or tangled fur, especially in long-haired dogs. Matting can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to irritation or infection. If needed, carefully trim away matted hair or clean the area with a warm, damp cloth, and keep it dry to help prevent further discomfort.
• Monitor their poop—soft or irregular stools can be a clue: if your dog’s stools are consistently soft, loose, or irregular, the glands may not be expressing properly, which can lead to buildup and discomfort. Also watch for changes like diarrhea, constipation, mucus, or unusually strong odor.
• Help your dog with a natural digestive supplement GastroBalance Scooting Deterrent for Dogs