Dog symptom
Scooting (dragging the rear) in dogs
Dragging the bottom along the floor usually means irritation around the rear end — most often full or infected anal glands, but sometimes worms or itchy skin.
Common causes of scooting (dragging the rear) in dogs
- Full, impacted, or infected anal glands
- Tapeworms or other parasites
- Itchy, inflamed skin around the rear (allergies)
- Residue or matted fur after diarrhea
Who's most at risk
- Small breeds (anal gland issues)
- Overweight pets
- Pets with allergies or recurrent soft stool
- Pets overdue for deworming
What you can do at home
- Check for visible worms or matted/dirty fur and keep the area clean
- Keep up parasite prevention
- Don't try to express the anal glands yourself unless shown how — you can cause injury
When to see a vet
- Swelling, a foul smell, or a draining sore beside the anus (abscess)
- Licking, pain, or bleeding at the rear
- Scooting that continues despite a clean, parasite-free rear
- Visible worms or rice-like segments
When it's more serious
- That suggests an anal gland abscess — painful and needs treatment soon.
- Pain or bleeding at the rear should be checked by your vet.
What your vet may do
- Check and express the anal glands
- Treat an anal gland infection or abscess
- Deworm if parasites are found
- Address underlying allergies or stool consistency
Questions to ask your vet
- Are the anal glands the problem?
- Do they need deworming?
- How often will the glands need attention?
- Could an allergy be driving this?
Frequently asked questions
What causes scooting (dragging the rear) in dogs?
Dragging the bottom along the floor usually means irritation around the rear end — most often full or infected anal glands, but sometimes worms or itchy skin. Common causes include: Full, impacted, or infected anal glands; Tapeworms or other parasites; Itchy, inflamed skin around the rear (allergies); Residue or matted fur after diarrhea.
Is scooting (dragging the rear) in dogs an emergency?
Book a veterinary visit soon. See a vet right away if: Swelling, a foul smell, or a draining sore beside the anus (abscess); Licking, pain, or bleeding at the rear; Scooting that continues despite a clean, parasite-free rear; Visible worms or rice-like segments.
What can I do at home for a dog with scooting (dragging the rear)?
Check for visible worms or matted/dirty fur and keep the area clean Keep up parasite prevention Don't try to express the anal glands yourself unless shown how — you can cause injury
Sources
Reviewed by the Webvet Veterinarian Team
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis, and does not replace an exam by your veterinarian. If your pet is in distress, contact your vet or an emergency clinic right away.