If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why does my dog scoot?”, you're not alone. Watching your dog dragging its bottom along the floor can be alarming, especially if it's happening frequently. Scooting is more than just an awkward habit—it’s often a sign that something isn’t quite right, particularly with your dog’s digestive health or anal glands. In this blog, we’ll explore common dog scooting causes, how to prevent them, and natural dog scooting remedies to help keep your pup comfortable and healthy.
Dog scooting and anal glands: what’s the link?
One of the most common dog scooting causes is impacted or irritated anal glands. These small sacs located on either side of your dog’s anus naturally release a scent when your dog poops. However, if the glands become blocked or infected, they can cause discomfort—leading to your dog rubbing its bum on the carpet or dragging its bottom on the floor in an attempt to relieve the pressure.
How do I know if my dog has anal gland issues?
Some tell-tale signs include:
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Persistent scooting or rubbing
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Licking or biting at the tail or rear end
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Swelling or redness near the anus
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A strong, fishy smell
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth visiting your vet to rule out infection or abscesses.
Other common causes of dog scooting
While dog scooting and anal glands go hand in hand, there are other potential culprits:
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Digestive problems: Poor gut health can lead to soft stools that don’t naturally express the anal glands during pooping.
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Allergies: Dog scooting due to allergies—either food or environmental—can irritate the rear end.
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Parasites: Worms, particularly tapeworms, can cause itchiness around the anus.
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Skin infections or irritations: These can make your dog uncomfortable, leading to scooting.
How to stop dog scooting with digestive support
A healthy digestive system plays a huge role in preventing scooting. When your dog produces well-formed stools, the anal glands are more likely to be expressed naturally, helping to prevent blockages and irritation.
One of the best ways to support your dog’s gut health is by adding targeted supplements to their diet. Our Advanced Support for Digestion powder is specially formulated to tackle the root of scooting issues from the inside out.
What makes our product effective?
Our blend is formulated with targeted ingredients that work together to support your dog’s digestive system and help prevent scooting:
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Probiotics:
Calsporin® (Bacillus velezensis) – A powerful, well-researched probiotic that promotes a balanced gut microbiome and supports immune function. -
Prebiotics & postbiotics:
Chicory root and brewers yeast – Natural sources of prebiotics that feed beneficial gut bacteria and help maintain a healthy gut barrier. Postbiotics help stabilise the digestive environment and support long-term gut health. -
Soluble and insoluble fibre:
Psyllium husk, apple pectin, and pumpkin seed – A carefully balanced mix of fibres that help regulate bowel movements, support stool formation, and promote natural anal gland expression. -
Vitamin B12:
An essential vitamin that supports overall digestive function, nutrient absorption, and energy metabolism.
This unique combination of natural ingredients makes our supplement one of the best supplements for dog scooting problems, offering a gentle, daily way to support gut health and reduce the need for uncomfortable scooting.
So if you're wondering what food helps prevent dog scooting, a high-quality, gut-supporting topper like ours is a great place to start.
Natural ways to stop dog scooting
Looking for home remedies for dog scooting? Here are a few natural ways to stop dog scooting that can be used alongside your vet's advice:
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Add fibre to your dog’s diet: Pumpkin or sweet potato are gentle, fibre-rich foods that help firm up stools.
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Use a daily digestive supplement: Products like our Advanced Support for Digestion offer ongoing support for healthy digestion and gland function.
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Keep your dog well-groomed: Regular trimming around the rear end can help avoid irritation.
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Check for allergies: Speak to your vet about potential food intolerances that might be triggering scooting.
When to see a vet
If your dog is scooting after pooping regularly or seems in pain, it’s time to consult a vet. In some cases, scooting can indicate a more serious issue such as infection, tumours, or severe allergies.
Final thoughts
If you're trying to figure out how to stop dog scooting, addressing digestive health is one of the most effective long-term solutions. By incorporating the right dog food for anal gland health and adding the best supplements for dog scooting problems, you’ll be giving your dog the support they need to feel their best.
At CliniPaw, we believe prevention is key. That’s why our Advanced Support for Digestion was designed with science-backed ingredients to naturally support your dog’s gut health—and reduce the chances of them dragging their bum across your favourite rug.
