What it is
The anal gland secretion is a dog's scent "calling card": a little of it is released every time the dog passes stools, when firm faeces press on the glands. When the stools are soft, when the dog is overweight or when the ducts of the glands are narrow, the secretion stays inside, thickens and the glands overfill.
Overfilled glands itch and press, so the dog scoots and licks. Overfilled glands can become inflamed, and an abscess can form in an inflamed gland, looking like a painful red lump beside the anus that may burst. A skin allergy that irritates the area around the anus can encourage gland trouble too.
Watch that your dog's stools are well formed and that it does not carry too much weight. Scooting does not necessarily mean worms: if it keeps happening, it is worth having a vet look at the glands.
Signs you may notice
- Drags its bottom along the floor
- Licks or chews the area under its tail
- Sharp, fishy smell
- Painful swelling beside the anus
- Strains or is in pain passing stools
The dog drags its bottom along the floor or grass, licks or chews the area under its tail, and gives off a sharp, fishy smell. A painful, red swelling can appear beside the anus, and the dog may strain or be in pain when passing stools and not want to be touched near its tail.
When to see a vet
Book a visit if your dog scoots or licks under its tail for more than a few days or keeps doing it. If a swelling appears beside the anus, pus or blood comes from it, or the dog has a fever, have it seen promptly.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own dog's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.