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My dog is scooting, straining, weak, and won't eat. What's happening?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 16 years and 5 months old | 23 lbs

all of his life he has scooted his butt on the carpet but lately he's been doing it a little more frequently and licking really bad until it's raw looking and since yesterday he has not had a bowel movement, all day yesterday he looked like he had to go but he would walk around the backyard squatting butt nothing was happening and when he would come back in he would walk right past his water and food bowl I couldn't force him to eat or drink, today has gotten so much worse he's too weak to stan

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 29th, 2017

I'm quite worried about Apollo from your description of what's happening. The most common reason a dog will squat as if to defecate and not have anything come out, is actually if the dog has diarrhea. Diarrhea causes inflammation in the intestines, which tends to give the sensation of needing to defecate, even if there's nothing left to pass! I agree, Apollo's rectum appears quite swollen and inflamed. The swollen appearance could be partially due to the fact that he's not neutered, but it could also indicate a chronic problem with his GI tract or anal glands. However, the most alarming symptom to me is that he is now refusing food and water and appears weak. These are very worrying symptoms, and if he's not eating or drinking, and likely has diarrhea, he can become dehydrated very quickly. I recommend a vet visit as soon as possible! Hope this helps and I hope Apollo feels better soon.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    So sorry that Apollo is having this problem. I am concerned that he is weak an not able to stand. He really needs to be examined by a vet to determine the cause and treat. He could be constipated or have a problem with his anal glands. Your vet can do an examination and then run lab-work, if needed, to determine why he is so weak. He may need fluids to prevent dehydration as well as other medications. Please call your vet an have him seen as soon as possible. Hope he feels better soon!

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