Is your dog dragging its bottom across the floor? Dog scooting is often a sign of itching, discomfort, or anal gland issues. While occasional scooting is normal, frequent scooting can indicate an underlying problem.
Luckily, there are natural home remedies that can help! In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Common causes of dog scooting
✔ Effective home remedies to relieve discomfort
✔ When to see a vet
Let’s get started! 🐶✨
🐾 Why Do Dogs Scoot? Common Causes
Before trying home remedies, it’s important to understand why your dog is scooting. Some of the most common reasons include:
1. Impacted or Full Anal Glands
✔ Dogs have two small anal glands that release a smelly fluid when they poop.
✔ If the glands don’t empty properly, they become full, swollen, or even infected.
✔ Scooting helps relieve the pressure and discomfort.
📌 Signs of Anal Gland Problems:
✔ Frequent scooting or licking the rear
✔ Foul smell from the backside
✔ Swelling or redness near the anus
2. Worms (Especially Tapeworms)
✔ Tapeworm segments can cause itching around the anus, leading to scooting.
✔ Dogs get tapeworms from fleas, so flea prevention is key.
📌 Signs of Worms:
✔ Small white rice-like pieces in poop or near the anus
✔ Increased hunger but weight loss
✔ Occasional vomiting or diarrhea
3. Allergies (Food or Environmental)
✔ Allergies can cause skin irritation, including around the anus.
✔ Common allergens include chicken, dairy, wheat, pollen, or household chemicals.
📌 Signs of Allergies:
✔ Itchy skin, red ears, or frequent licking
✔ Chronic ear infections or paw chewing
4. Poor Diet & Digestive Issues
✔ Low-fiber diets can lead to soft stools, making it harder for anal glands to empty naturally.
✔ Food intolerances can cause inflammation, itching, and scooting.
📌 Signs of Digestive Issues:
✔ Loose or inconsistent stools
✔ Excess gas or bloating
✔ Scooting after eating certain foods
5. Skin Irritation or Infections
✔ Bacterial or yeast infections near the anus can make dogs uncomfortable.
✔ Grooming products, shampoos, or grass irritants can also trigger itching.
📌 Signs of Skin Irritation:
✔ Red, inflamed skin around the anus
✔ Persistent licking or chewing at the area
🏡 7 Effective Home Remedies for Dog Scooting
If your dog is scooting but doesn’t have a serious medical issue, try these natural home remedies to relieve discomfort.
1. Add Pumpkin for Digestive Health 🎃
✔ Pumpkin is rich in fiber, helping regulate bowel movements and naturally empty anal glands.
✔ It firms up stool, making it easier for the glands to express when pooping.
📌 How to Use:
✔ Add 1-2 teaspoons of plain, unsweetened pumpkin to your dog’s food daily.
✔ Works for both constipation and loose stools.
2. Increase Fiber with Ground Flaxseeds 🌾
✔ Flaxseeds add bulk to stools, helping naturally empty anal glands.
✔ They also reduce inflammation and promote gut health.
📌 How to Use:
✔ Add 1/4 to 1 teaspoon (depending on your dog’s size) to meals.
✔ Make sure to grind the seeds first for better digestion.
3. Warm Compress for Immediate Relief 🔥
✔ A warm compress can reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
📌 How to Use:
1️⃣ Soak a clean cloth in warm water (not hot!).
2️⃣ Gently press it against your dog’s anus for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Repeat 2-3 times daily if needed.
✅ Best For: Dogs with mild anal gland irritation or swelling.
4. Coconut Oil for Soothing Relief 🥥
✔ Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
✔ Helps soothe itchy, inflamed skin near the anus.
📌 How to Use:
✔ Apply a tiny amount of melted coconut oil to the affected area.
✔ You can also add 1/4 to 1 teaspoon to meals for internal benefits.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar for Gut & Skin Health 🍏
✔ Balances gut bacteria and reduces inflammation.
✔ Can also help relieve itchy skin when applied topically.
📌 How to Use (Internal):
✔ Mix 1 teaspoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar into your dog’s water or food daily.
📌 How to Use (External):
✔ Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar and dab onto itchy areas (avoid open wounds).
6. Massage to Help Express Anal Glands 👐
✔ Sometimes, anal glands need manual expression to relieve pressure.
✔ If you’re comfortable, you can gently massage the area or ask a groomer/vet for help.
📌 How to Do It Safely:
1️⃣ Wear gloves and use a warm, damp cloth.
2️⃣ Gently apply light pressure around the anus.
3️⃣ If you see discharge or foul-smelling fluid, wipe it away and clean the area.
🚨 Warning: If your dog’s anal glands are very swollen, infected, or painful, visit a vet instead of trying to express them at home.
7. Keep Your Dog’s Rear Clean 🧼
✔ Dried feces or dirt can irritate the anus, leading to scooting.
✔ Use unscented baby wipes or pet-safe wipes to clean the area after bowel movements.
📌 Best For: Dogs with long fur or sensitive skin.
🚨 When to See a Vet About Scooting
While home remedies help in mild cases, visit a vet if you notice:
🚨 Frequent scooting that lasts more than a few days
🚨 Swelling, redness, or pus near the anus
🚨 Blood in the stool or rectal area
🚨 Bad odor or signs of infection
🚨 Weight loss or appetite changes
📌 If scooting is caused by an anal gland abscess, severe infection, or parasites, medical treatment is necessary.
🔚 Final Thoughts: How to Stop Dog Scooting Naturally
✔ Most dog scooting is caused by anal gland issues, diet, or allergies.
✔ Pumpkin, flaxseeds, coconut oil, and warm compresses can help relieve discomfort.
✔ Keeping your dog’s diet fiber-rich and ensuring proper hygiene prevents future scooting.
✔ If scooting continues or worsens, consult a vet.
💬 Has your dog ever had a scooting problem? What worked for you? Share your experience in the comments! 🐶👇
